Hiring an overseas maid can be one of the best decisions for families looking for reliable, skilled, and full-time household assistance. However, the process comes with important legal responsibilities especially regarding work permits and visas. Understanding these requirements ensures you remain compliant with your country’s labor laws while giving your maid a safe and legal working environment.

This step-by-step guide breaks down the entire process in a simple, easy-to-follow way for first-time employers.

1. Understand the Legal Requirements of Your Country

Each country whether Singapore, UAE, Hong Kong, or Malaysia has its own rules for employing foreign domestic workers. Before starting the process, employers should understand:

• Eligibility criteria (age, income, type of residence)

• Approved source countries for hiring

• Minimum salary regulations

• Insurance and medical check-up requirements

Doing this homework prevents delays later.

2. Choose a Licensed Maid Agency

A professional overseas maid agency plays a crucial role in handling documentation. They help with:

• Finding verified candidates

• Background checks

• Preparing paperwork

• Coordinating with immigration and embassy departments

Always select an accredited agency to avoid legal complications or fraudulent documents.

3. Apply for the Work Permit

Once you’ve selected your maid, the next step is to apply for her work permit or work visa. This typically involves:

• Filling out employer application forms

• Submitting maid’s passport and personal documents

• Providing your financial and residential details

• Paying processing fees

Most countries allow agencies to submit these applications on your behalf.

4. Approval & Entry Visa Issued

After the application is reviewed and approved, the immigration authority issues an entry visa or approval letter. This allows your maid to legally travel to your country.

The approval often includes:

• Entry validity dates

• Terms of employment

• Special medical requirements

Make sure the travel arrangements are booked within the allowed period.

5. Arrival & Mandatory Medical Screening

Once your maid arrives, she may need to undergo a compulsory medical check-up within a specific number of days. Tests usually include:

• General health screening

• Infectious disease tests

• Fitness for household work

A valid medical certificate is usually required before the work permit becomes fully active.

6. Finalizing the Work Permit

After the health report is cleared, the final work permit card or digital work pass is issued. This document legally authorizes your maid to live and work for you.

You may also need to:

• Provide accommodation

• Offer mandatory rest days

• Arrange insurance, bank account, or ID registration

Good compliance ensures smooth long-term employment.

7. Renewal & Extension

Work permits are not permanent; they need timely renewal usually every 1–2 years depending on the country.

Employers must remember to:

• Book medical checks before renewal

• Pay renewal fees

• Update any address or job changes

Late renewals can result in penalties.

8. Cancellation or Repatriation

If the contract ends or the maid wants to return home, the employer is responsible for:

• Cancelling the permit

• Purchasing return tickets

• Settling salary, benefits, or end-of-service dues

Proper exit procedures protect both parties from legal complications.

Final Thoughts

Hiring an overseas maid becomes easier when you understand how work permits and visas actually work. With a trusted agency and proper documentation, the entire process from selection to arrival and renewal can be smooth and stress-free.

Following the correct legal steps not only safeguards you as an employer but also ensures your maid enjoys a safe, dignified, and lawful working experience.

At Bookmybai, we go through an extensive shortlisting process to make sure that the worker deployed at your home is a perfect choice for you. We have maids, cleaners, nanny, babysitter, cook, chef, patient caretaker, senior citizen caretaker available for you and your family whether you want a part time, full day or 24 hours live in maid. We do an elaborate background check to make sure that the person is not only reliable but also trusted.

If you have a requirement for a domestic helper for your family, you can be rest assured that we will give our 100% to make sure that your entire hiring process is hassle free.

We are not just a maid agency or a maid bureau near your house. We are your partners