Renewal Criteria of Migrant Domestic Workers' Work Permit and Measures to Expedite Renewal Applications

21 Mr Christopher de Souza asked the Minister for Manpower (a) what factors are considered in the renewal of work permits for Migrant Domestic Workers; and (b) what measures are in place to expedite the renewal applications.

Dr Tan See Leng: The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) considers factors, such as the employer's ability to hire, maintain and upkeep the migrant domestic worker (MDW) and the MDW's age in renewal applications.

Eligible employers will receive a letter from MOM to renew their MDW's work permit about two months before its expiry. If the employer wishes to keep the MDW, he must purchase a security bond, medical and personal accident insurance from a bank or insurance company. The bank or insurance company takes up to three working days to send the information to MOM. Thereafter, the employer may submit the renewal application, which will be approved immediately.