Understanding The Cost Breakdown

1. Initial Placement Fees

When hiring a maid in Malaysia 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 into Malaysia, including advertising, interviews, and selection processes with foreign counterpart agencies.

• • Documentation Fees: Costs for processing the necessary work permits, visas, and other legal documents of the maid.

• • Training: Some maid agencies provide training for maids to ensure they meet certain standards before being placed in your home. For example, maids from Innovedge Maid undergo a week-long training in Malaysia before being delivered to the Malaysian employer.

With this in mind, Malaysian employers can expect an initial placement fee charged by maid agencies in Malaysia, which can range from RM 15,000 to RM 18,000, depending on the agency and the maid’s country of origin. 

For instance, a handful of maid agencies charge a higher fee for Indonesian maids due to the difficulty of searching for maid candidates, leading to a higher raw cost for a maid.

2. Monthly Salary

The monthly salary of a maid in Malaysia varies based on experience, skills, and nationality. Based on the rules set by the Malaysian and Foreign Embassies, employers for a maid in Malaysia must expect to pay a salary as follows:

• • Indonesian Maid: RM 1,500

• Filipino Maid: RM 1,800

However, if you intend your maid to work on rest days, a rest day rate must be paid and this varies according to the maid’s country of origin too. (Indonesian or Filipino)

For a more detailed breakdown of maids’ salaries in Malaysia, we covered everything in this article, from off-day rates to methods of paying your maids’ salaries.

3. Levy and Other Government Fees

A maid levy is a charge imposed by the government for those intending to hire a maid in Malaysia. 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 as covered below this section. All of these can add up to around RM 1,500 to RM 2,000 annually.

4. Work Permit Renewal Fees

To have a maid in Malaysia, employers must be responsible for renewing the maid’s work permit every year. A Maid Work Permit is a legal document issued by the Immigration Department of Malaysia to permit a Foreign Domestic Helper to carry out her designated task in Malaysia for a certain period.

Generally, the cost of renewing your maid’s work permit on your own without the help of a maid agency would be around RM600, and this is paid to the government directly. 

However, maid agencies in Malaysia usually impose a service fee for work permit renewal ranging around RM1000-RM1200.

Read our article for everything you need to know about a maid’s work permit in Malaysia.

5. Insurance

It is mandatory to purchase insurance for your maid, covering personal accidents that result in hospitalization. 

The cost of a comprehensive insurance package ranges from RM 300 to RM 500 per year. In most cases, this is usually included within the fees of a maid agency so employers typically will have this looked after by a reliable maid agency.

At Innovedge, our service includes insurance coverage and all documentation for maids in Malaysia.

6. Additional Costs

Occasionally, you may encounter additional costs such as:

• • Medical Expenses: Unplanned medical expenses not covered by insurance. For example, minor incidents which do not result in hospitalization must be paid by the employer for the maid in Malaysia.

• • Travel Expenses: If the maid returns to her home country for holidays or emergencies, you may need to cover travel costs. However, this is subject to mutual agreement between you and your maid in Malaysia.

• Agency Fees: Some agencies charge ongoing fees for managing the employment relationship and providing support services such as counselling services. However, Innovedge provides free personalized counselling session for employers for an unlimited amount of times.

So How Much Do I Need For A Maid In Malaysia?

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 of around RM20,000 to RM22,000 for a legal housemaid. 

While this is not an amount most employers are comfortable paying as it is considerably costly for Malaysians, it is important to note that the money that employers are paying for a maid agency’s service is to ensure that everything is dealt with legally. There are many real-life examples where employers are caught in a legal blunder. This is because many of them intend to save the need to engage a maid agency. Most maids that are not processed by maid agencies are without proper documents and this is something Malaysian employers have to avoid.

 

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 have been satisfied with our maids and services.

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 in Malaysia

Before embarking on the hiring process, it’s crucial to confirm your eligibility as an employer. These are the requirements that must be met for you to be eligible to hire a maid legally. Here are the key requirements to hire a maid in Malaysia: 

• • Citizenship and Residency: You must be a Malaysian citizen or a permanent resident of Malaysia, with a minimum age of 21 years. Additionally, expatriates in Malaysia with a valid Employment are eligible to hire a maid in Malaysia too!

• • 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

As mentioned above, hiring a maid comes with various financial commitments. 

• • 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 to get a maid in Malaysia. Maid agencies can assist you with tasks mainly like: 

• • Matching you with suitable candidates: Reputable agencies screen potential maids based on your requirements and preferences. Maid agencies typically have a pool of maid. biodata for employers to select candidates based on their experiences, background and interests etc. This process is key for many as finding a suitable candidate can be difficult without a maid agency. 

• • Handling paperwork: Maid Agencies can guide you through the application process and ensure all necessary documents are completed accurately. Employers do not have to worry whether their maid hiring outcome is legal compliant or not. 

• • Negotiating employment terms: Maid agencies can act as a middle-person for you and your potential maid candidate. They can assist you in communicating your working conditions and terms of employment to the maid and vice versa. 

Fees associated with maid 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 a respectful and understanding is key with your maid in Malaysia!

Conditions When Hiring A Maid In Malaysia

Duties and Living Conditions:

• • Work Assignments: The maid’s duties are limited to household chores. Employers in Malaysia must note that maids in Malaysia are not permitted to wash cars as stipulated in their Employment Contract. 

• • Accommodation: Employers must provide the maid with a proper living space equipped with basic necessities.

• • Food and Rest: Employers must ensure the maid in Malaysia 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. For a more detailed on guide on salary payments, click here. 

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 Foreign Domestic Helper should visit the Malaysian Representative Office in their home country to acquire a visa using the approval letter.

2. Entering Malaysia:

• • The Foreign Domestic Helper 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.