Hiring a maid can significantly ease the burden of household chores, allowing you more time to focus on work, family, and personal activities. If you’re considering hiring a maid in Malaysia, understanding the costs involved is crucial. In this blog, we’ll break down the various expenses associated with hiring a maid through a maid agency, helping you make an informed decision.

Understanding the Cost Breakdown

1. Initial Placement Fees

When hiring a maid through a maid agency in Malaysia, the initial placement fee is one of the primary costs. This fee typically covers:

• Recruitment Costs: Expenses incurred by the agency to recruit the maid, including advertising, interviews, and selection processes.
• Documentation Fees: Costs for processing the necessary work permits, visas, and other legal documents.
• Training: Some agencies provide training for maids to ensure they meet certain standards before being placed in your home.

The initial placement fee charged by maid agencies in Malaysia can range from RM 12,000 to RM 18,000, depending on the agency and the maid’s country of origin.

2. Monthly Salary

The monthly salary of a maid in Malaysia varies based on experience, skills, and nationality. On average, you can expect to pay:

• Indonesian Maid: RM 1,500
• Filipino Maid: RM 1,800

3. Levy and Other Government Fees

Employers are required to pay a yearly levy for hiring a foreign maid in Malaysia, which is RM 610 per year. Additionally, there may be other government-related fees such as medical check-ups, insurance, and visa renewals, which can add up to around RM 1,500 to RM 2,000 annually.

4. Insurance

It is mandatory to purchase insurance for your maid, covering personal accident, hospitalization, and repatriation. The cost of a comprehensive insurance package ranges from RM 300 to RM 500 per year.

5. Additional Costs

Occasionally, you may encounter additional costs such as:

• Medical Expenses: Unplanned medical expenses not covered by insurance.
• Travel Expenses: If the maid returns to her home country for holidays or emergencies, you may need to cover travel costs.
• Agency Fees: Some agencies charge ongoing fees for managing the employment relationship and providing support services such as counselling services.

Conclusion

Hiring a maid in Malaysia involves several costs, from placement fees to monthly salaries and additional expenses. By understanding these costs and planning accordingly, you can make a well-informed decision that fits your budget and meets your household needs. So how much exactly should you allocate as a budget for hiring a maid in Malaysia? Well, the rough estimate would be a figure around RM20,000 to RM22,000 for a legal housemaid.

For reliable maid services and transparent pricing, consider partnering with a reputable maid agency such as Innovedge Maid as we have tens of thousands of clients across the whole of Malaysia that has been satisfied with our maids and services.

Contact Us Today:

If you’re ready to hire a maid or need more information, contact Innovedge Maid Agency today. We’re here to assist you every step of the way.

+6012-2739575

Overview When Hiring a Maid in Malaysia

Taking on the responsibility of a maid (Foreign Domestic Helper – FDH) can significantly ease your household workload. However, hiring a maid in Malaysia involves adhering to specific regulations set forth by the Jabatan Imigresen Malaysia (Immigration Department of Malaysia). This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the requirements and processes involved.

1. Eligibility to Hire a Maid

Before embarking on the hiring process, it’s crucial to confirm your eligibility as an employer. Here are the key factors to consider:

• Citizenship and Residency: You must be a Malaysian citizen or a permanent resident of Malaysia, with a minimum age of 21 years.
• Employment Status: There may be specific requirements regarding your employment status. In some cases, single individuals may be eligible if they have dependents requiring full-time care due to medical reasons.
• Minimum Income: Your household income needs to meet a minimum threshold as set by the Immigration Department. This threshold varies depending on the nationality of the maid you intend to hire. For instance, the minimum household income for employing a Filipino maid is RM5,000 per month, while for an Indonesian maid, it’s RM7,000 per month (as of June 2024).

2. Financial Considerations

Hiring a maid comes with various financial commitments. Here’s a breakdown of the key costs:

• Minimum Salary: The Immigration Department mandates a minimum monthly salary for maids. This amount varies based on the maid’s nationality and experience level. Be sure to research the current minimum wage for your chosen nationality.
• Additional Costs: Besides the salary, there are additional expenses to factor in. These include medical checkups for the maid upon arrival, a mandatory levy fee paid to the government (amount subject to change), and potential agency fees if you choose to use a licensed agency.

3. Obtaining Approval from the Immigration Department

Once you’ve confirmed your eligibility and are prepared financially, you’ll need to secure approval from the Immigration Department. This process involves submitting the following documents:

• Employer Documents: Proof of your Malaysian citizenship or permanent residency status, proof of income (salary slips, bank statements, etc.), and marriage certificate (if applicable).
• Maid Documents: The maid’s passport copy, medical examination reports conducted in their home country, and other relevant documents as requested by the department.
• Employment Contract: A clear and legally binding employment contract outlining the maid’s working hours, rest days, salary, scope of duties, and other terms of employment.

4. Engaging a Licensed Agency (Optional)

While not mandatory, using a reputable and licensed maid agency can simplify the hiring process. Agencies can assist you with tasks like:

• Matching you with suitable candidates: Reputable agencies screen potential maids based on your requirements and preferences.
• Handling paperwork: Agencies can guide you through the application process and ensure all necessary documents are completed accurately.
• Negotiating salary and terms: They can help negotiate a fair salary and employment contract with the maid.

Fees associated with agencies vary depending on the agency’s services and the maid’s nationality. It’s recommended to research and compare fees from different agencies before making a decision.

5. Compliance with Maid Placement Guidelines

Beyond obtaining official approval, you are responsible for ensuring fair treatment and adherence to regulations throughout the maid’s employment period. Here’s what you need to know:

• Employment Contract: Ensure a clear and legal employment contract is signed by both parties. This document should clearly outline working hours, rest days, salary, scope of duties, leave entitlements, and termination clauses.
• Accommodation and Meals: As per Malaysian regulations, you are obligated to provide the maid with proper accommodation within your household and meals throughout their employment.
• Fair Treatment: Uphold fair treatment of your maid. This includes respecting their working hours, rest days, and privacy. Malaysian labor laws outline the rights and entitlements of domestic helpers, so ensure you are familiar with these regulations.

Additional Considerations

• Employers Working Overseas: If you are a Malaysian citizen working overseas and intend to hire a maid for your home in Malaysia, there may be additional documentation required by the Immigration Department. It’s advisable to consult with the department directly for the most current requirements.
• Staying Updated: Regulations regarding maid hiring in Malaysia are subject to change. Make it a habit to refer to the official Jabatan Imigresen Malaysia website for the latest updates to ensure you remain compliant.

By carefully considering the eligibility criteria, financial obligations, and legal requirements outlined in this guide, you can ensure a smooth and responsible process for hiring a maid in Malaysia. Remember, you are entering into an employer-employee relationship, so fostering

Conditions When Hiring A Maid In Malaysia

Duties and Living Conditions:

• Work Assignments: The maid’s duties are limited to household chores. Car washing is not included.
• Accommodation: Provide the maid with a proper living space equipped with basic necessities.
• Food and Rest: Ensure the maid receives healthy meals and adequate rest, including proper sleeping hours.

Respecting Religious Beliefs (for Non-Muslim Employers):

If you employ a Muslim maid, it’s important to be respectful of their faith:

• Prayer Time: Allow them to perform their five daily prayers without interruption.
• Ramadan Observance: Be understanding and supportive during the holy month of Ramadan.
• Religious Restrictions: Avoid assigning chores that conflict with their religious beliefs.

Employment Regulations:

• Marriage Restrictions: The maid cannot marry in Malaysia while holding an FDH permit (PL(KS)).
• Work Permit Changes: The maid cannot apply for a separate work permit while on an FDH permit.
• Job Changes: Permission from the Immigration Department is required before the maid can change employers.

Contract Renewal and Responsibilities:

• Permit Renewal: Applications for FDH permit renewal (PL(KS)) must be submitted three months before expiry, along with a medical examination report.
• Salary and Records: Maintain payroll records for the maid and submit them to the authorities upon request. Pay the salary at least once a month, preferably in the last week.

Healthcare and Reporting:

• Medical Care: You are responsible for the maid’s medical treatment during their employment period.
• Reporting Obligations: Report any incidents involving the maid such as death, disappearance, or abscondment from work to the Immigration Department.

Fair Treatment and Termination:

• Zero Tolerance for Abuse: Employers and agencies are strictly prohibited from any form of violence or abuse towards the maid.
• Change in Employer: If the original employer passes away, report the situation to the Immigration Department for verification of the new employer’s status.
• Contract Termination: Both the employer and the maid require approval from the Immigration Department to terminate the contract.

Immigration Department Authority:

• Pass Revocation: The Immigration Department has the authority to revoke issued passes under specific circumstances.
• Transfer Due to Abuse: In cases of abuse by the original employer, the Immigration Department can transfer the maid to a new employer for their safety.
• Travel Permission: Employers seeking to bring the maid overseas require prior approval from the maid’s embassy or consulate in Malaysia.
• Compliance and Blacklist: Failure to comply with these regulations may result in being blacklisted from hiring future maids.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure a responsible and respectful employer-employee relationship with your maid in Malaysia.

Required Documents When Hiring Maid in Malaysia

This guide outlines the documents required and the application process for hiring a Foreign Domestic Helper (FDH) in Malaysia. Applications are submitted at the State Immigration Office corresponding to your employer address.

Required Documents for Visa With Reference (VDR) Application:

• New Application Form (PRA1) or Replacement Form for FDH (PRA2) (whichever applies)
• Form IM 12 (Application PLKS)
• Form IM 38 (Visa Application)
• Original and Copy of a Personal Bond (stamped with RM10.00 revenue stamp)
• Two Original and Copies of an Employment Agreement for Foreign Domestic Helpers (stamped with RM10.00 revenue stamp)
• Copy of the Foreign Domestic Helper’s Passport
• Medical Report from the FDH’s Origin Country (certified by a Malaysian Ministry of Health approved clinic)
• Declaration Forms:
  • Declaration form for employing Muslim Foreign Domestic Helpers (and)
  • Declaration form for Muslim Foreign Domestic Helpers (for non-Muslim employers only)
• Declaration Form Stating Non-Usage of Registered Agencies (if applying independently)

Proof of Employer’s Regular Income:

• EPF Statement and Payslips (last 3 months) OR
• e-BE / IRB Statement of Receipt and Payment Slip

Additional Documents:

• Copies of Identity Cards (Employer and Spouse)
• Supporting documents (e.g., birth certificates, medical certificates for family illness) – (optional, but may be requested)
• Marriage Certificate (only required for first-time applications)

Note: This information is intended as a guide. Always refer to the latest requirements from the official Jabatan Imigresen Malaysia website.

Arrival and Medical Check-up Procedures for Hiring A Maid in Malaysia

Once your Foreign Domestic Helper (FDH) receives the visa approval letter, the following steps outline the arrival and medical check-up procedures in Malaysia:

1. Obtaining a Visa:

• The FDH should visit the Malaysian Representative Office in their home country to acquire a visa using the approval letter.

2. Entering Malaysia:

• The FDH can enter Malaysia through any authorized entry point.

3. Special Pass and Reporting:

• Upon arrival, immigration officers will issue a Special Pass valid for 30 days.
• Important: The employer must report the FDH’s arrival to the Immigration Office that approved the Visa With Reference (VDR) within this 30-day window. This office can be either the State Immigration Office or the Immigration Headquarters.

4. Medical Check-up:

• The employer or employment agency is responsible for accompanying the FDH to a medical check-up at any clinic registered with FOMEMA Pte. Ltd. (within one month of arrival).
• This medical examination is mandatory. Failing the check-up will result in the FDH being sent back to their home country.

Additional Notes:

• It’s advisable for the employer or agency to be present at the designated entry point upon the FDH’s arrival to ensure a smooth transition.
• Double-check the validity of the FOMEMA clinic registration before scheduling the medical check-up.

By following these procedures, you can ensure a seamless arrival and medical check-up process for your FDH in Malaysia.