Complete Interview Guide for Migrant Domestic Workers in Singapore

Quick Insight: Singapore employs hundreds of thousands of migrant domestic workers (MDWs). A strong application begins with well-prepared interview responses, helping you take the first step toward a safe, legal, and long-term job here.

Understanding MDW Work in Singapore

All MDW jobs in Singapore are regulated by the Ministry of Manpower (MoM) through the Work Permit system. Your interview is not just about skills – employers also look at your attitude, communication and whether you understand basic rules about working in Singapore.

Most families hire helpers for childcare, eldercare and housework. Many homes are multi-generational, so you may care for both young children and elderly family members.

Basic Eligibility & Key Programmes

Before applying, make sure you meet the main requirements:

• Age: Generally 23–50 for first-time applicants (renewals up to 60)
• Gender: Female
• Education: At least 8 years of formal schooling with proof
• Approved source countries: Only from MoM-approved countries (check the latest list on the MoM website)
• Medical fitness: Must pass pre-employment and regular medical check-ups

Important programmes you should know and mention in interviews:

Settling-In Programme (SIP)

• Mandatory one-day course for all first-time MDWs
• Done within 14 days of arrival
• Covers your rights, safety, Singapore laws and tips for adapting

Employers’ Orientation Programme (EOP)

• First-time employers must attend a short course before hiring an MDW
• Shows there are responsibilities on both sides, employer and helper

Mentioning SIP and EOP in your interview shows you understand how MDW employment works in Singapore.

Common Interview Questions & How to Answer

Below are typical questions asked by Singapore employers and agencies, plus simple ways to answer them confidently.

Question 1: “Tell me about yourself.”

Employer wants to know: Who you are and whether your background fits their home.

How to answer:

• Start with your name, age and country
• Share your years of experience and where you worked (especially if in Singapore)
• Mention key skills: childcare, eldercare, cooking, housekeeping
• Add any training (first aid, caregiving courses, cooking courses)

Sample:
“My name is [Name], I am [age] from [country]. I have [X] years of experience as a domestic helper, including [X] years in Singapore. I am confident in [childcare/eldercare/housekeeping] and can cook [list cuisines]. I completed my previous contract and have a certificate in [e.g. first aid].”

Question 2: “Why do you want to work in Singapore?”

Employer wants to know: Your motivation and whether you understand the role.

Good points to mention:

• You enjoy caring for families and managing a household
• You are aware that Singapore has clear rules protecting MDWs
• You understand that it is a live-in job
• You want a stable, long-term contract in a safe environment

Question 3: “What are your strengths and weaknesses?”

Employer wants to know: If you are honest and self-aware.

Useful strengths in Singapore: prior Singapore experience, eldercare, childcare, cooking different cuisines, patience, good communication, first-aid skills.

How to talk about weaknesses: Choose a real but safe weakness and show how you improved.

Example: “Before, I had trouble managing my time when caring for children and doing housework. Now I follow a daily schedule so everything is done on time.”

Question 4: “Tell me about your previous work experience.”

Use a simple structure:

• Where and how long: “I worked in [country/SG] for [X] years.”
• Family size: “The family had [number] members, including [children/elderly].”
• Duties: “I did cooking, cleaning, [childcare/eldercare], groceries, etc.”
• Achievement: “I helped improve [e.g. child’s routine, grandma’s comfort].”
• Reason for leaving: Contract finished, family migrated, or similar.

Question 5: “How do you handle conflicts or difficult situations?”

Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) in simple language:

• Situation: What happened?
• Task: What needed to be solved?
• Action: What did you do?
• Result: How did it end well?

Show that you stay calm, listen, and try to talk things through. If something serious happens, you can also seek help from MoM or the Centre for Domestic Employees (CDE).

Question 6: “What are your salary expectations?”

Be realistic and in line with common market rates for your nationality and experience. You can say something like:

“For my experience, I am looking for around [SGD $X] per month, but I am open to discuss based on duties and rest days.”

Salaries are usually based on your country’s minimum rates plus your experience. Employers also pay for levy, food, accommodation and medical insurance.

Question 7: “Do you have any questions for us?”

Always ask at least one question – it shows you are serious and professional.

• “Can you share what a typical day looks like in your home?”
• “How old are the family members I will care for?”
• “Which day will be my weekly rest day?”
• “Are there any special diets or food allergies?”

Singapore-Specific Questions to Expect

Employers in Singapore often ask:

• “Have you worked in Singapore before?” – transfer helpers already know local routines
• “Are you comfortable living in?” – MDWs must stay at the employer’s registered address
• “Can you cook Chinese/Malay/Indian food?” – many homes like a mix of cuisines
• “Do you have eldercare experience?” – demand is high for helpers who can care for seniors
• “Are you okay with pets?” – some homes have dogs or cats
• “What languages do you speak?” – English is useful; dialects help with elderly

Showing Cultural Adaptability

Singapore is a multicultural country with Chinese, Malay, Indian and other communities. Employers like helpers who are respectful and open-minded.

• Be prepared to follow different religious and dietary practices (e.g. halal food, vegetarian kitchens)
• Understand that festivals like Chinese New Year, Hari Raya, Deepavali and Christmas may be busy periods
• Show you are willing to learn new recipes and routines

Your Rights & Red Flags to Watch For

Knowing your rights helps you choose a safe employer and agency.

Your employer must:

• Give at least one rest day per week (or pay you extra if you agree to work)
• Provide proper accommodation and enough food or food allowance
• Pay your salary on time as stated in your contract
• Provide medical insurance and pay for your medical treatment
• Ensure safe work – you should not be asked to do dangerous tasks (e.g. cleaning outside windows unsafely)

Red flags:

• Being asked to work at more than one home or business
• Very high agency fees (more than a few months of salary)
• Employer asking you to pay for the security bond or levy
• Salary offered below your country’s minimum

Where to get help:

• Centre for Domestic Employees (CDE): 1800-225-5233
• MoM Helpline: 6438-5122

How to Present Yourself on Interview Day

Before the Interview

• Check that the agency is licensed by MoM
• Prepare your documents (passport, certificates, references)
• Practice your answers in simple English
• Think of 2–3 real examples of your work experience

During the Interview

• Dress neat and modest
• Arrive 10–15 minutes early
• Smile, make eye contact and listen carefully
• Answer honestly and clearly – it’s okay to admit what you still want to learn

After the Interview

• Thank the interviewer for their time
• Ask about the next steps and expected timeline

Give Yourself the Best Chance

A successful MDW interview in Singapore is not only about “getting hired”. It is about finding a family that respects you, follows MoM rules and matches your skills.

By preparing for common questions, understanding your rights and showing you are willing to learn and adapt, you stand out as a professional, reliable helper. Your interview is your chance to show who you are – and to choose the right employer for your future.

Official Resources

• Ministry of Manpower: www.mom.gov.sg
• Centre for Domestic Employees: www.cde.org.sg | Hotline: 1800-225-5233
• MoM Work Permit Services: Hotline: 6438-5122

Disclaimer: This guide is for general information only. Regulations can change. Always check the latest rules with the Ministry of Manpower or a licensed employment agency.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the minimum salary for domestic helpers in Singapore?

MoM does not set a minimum wage for MDWs, but each sending country has its own minimum salary for helpers working overseas. Your pay will usually be at or above that amount, depending on your experience and duties.

What is the Settling-In Programme (SIP)?

It is a one-day course that all first-time MDWs must attend within 14 days of arriving in Singapore. It teaches you about your rights, safety and how to live and work here.

Can domestic helpers work at more than one address?

No. A migrant domestic worker’s Work Permit is tied to one household only. Working elsewhere is not allowed and may lead to Work Permit cancellation or a ban from future employment.

How many rest days are domestic helpers entitled to?

Under MoM regulations, migrant domestic workers are entitled to at least one rest day per week. If both parties agree, the helper may work on a rest day in exchange for proper compensation.

What should be done if a domestic helper experiences mistreatment?

Cases of mistreatment should be reported immediately. The Centre for Domestic Employees (CDE) can be contacted at 1800-225-5233, and the Ministry of Manpower (MoM) helpline is available at 6438-5122. Assistance is also offered at the MoM Services Centre, with support in several languages.