Before you apply
If you are a first-time employer hiring a foreign domestic worker in Singapore, MOM requires you to complete the Employers’ Orientation Programme (EOP) at least two working days before your Work Permit application. It covers employer responsibilities, safety and the conditions of employment. This is separate from the Settling-in Programme (SIP) that a first-time helper attends after arriving in Singapore. Check the current course options, timing and any representative arrangement on MOM’s EOP page before booking.
Tell us whether this is your first time employing a helper. We will confirm whether the EOP applies and what else needs to happen before the Work Permit application.
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MOM’s standard EOP requirement is for first-time employers. Check your previous employment and course records rather than assuming a family member’s attendance covers you. If your circumstances are unclear, confirm the applicable route with MOM before setting an application date.
MOM requires the EOP to be completed at least two working days before the Work Permit application is submitted. This means you should book and complete the course before your agency files the application on your behalf. If you are already working with Apex, tell us your target start date and we will confirm the timeline.
The EOP is available as a three-hour classroom session or a two-hour online session. Both fulfil MOM’s requirement. Classroom sessions are offered in English, Mandarin, Malay and Tamil; availability varies by provider. Check the MOM EOP page for the current list of approved providers, their fees and booking links. Course fees are set by the providers and may change; confirm the current price when you book.
There are specific representative or sponsor routes for eligible employers. Age alone, being busy or choosing any relative does not establish eligibility. Read the conditions and the required person on MOM’s EOP page, then use its appointment/exemption service where applicable. The course and appointment application have their own sequence; confirm that sequence before planning the Work Permit submission. Keep required supporting records privately, as MOM directs, rather than sending them through a general website enquiry.
The programme introduces the employer’s role and responsibilities. Before attending, write down the household questions you need clarified: who gives instructions, what rest arrangements will look like and what you need to prepare at home. Follow the course provider’s completion instructions.
The Settling-in Programme (SIP) is for first-time helpers. MOM’s window is within seven days of arrival, excluding Sundays and public holidays; attendance on arrival day is not allowed. The employer pays, and the helper can start work only after attending. Use MOM’s SIP page to check the applicable requirements and book a suitable slot.
| Check | EOP | SIP |
|---|---|---|
| Who | First-time employer | First-time helper |
| When | At least 2 working days before the Work Permit application | Within 7 days of arrival, excluding Sundays/public holidays; not on arrival day |
| Duration | 2–3 hours | 1 day |
| Who pays | Employer | Employer |
The EOP is one step in the process. For the full hiring sequence, see how hiring works. For costs, see what it costs to hire a helper.
Check which requirement applies to each person. Completing the employer’s EOP does not replace the helper’s SIP where that course is required.
Questions
MOM’s standard requirement is for first-time employers. Check the applicable requirement and any eligible representative arrangement with MOM before assuming someone else’s attendance covers you.
Yes. MOM lists two-hour online and three-hour classroom options through its appointed providers. Check their current languages, fees and booking arrangements on MOM’s EOP page.
Confirm the completion record and required waiting period before setting a Work Permit submission date. Ask the agency which step needs rescheduling; do not assume an intended helper start date is guaranteed.
No. EOP is the employer’s course; SIP is for first-time helpers. Different attendance and timing requirements apply. Check MOM’s separate guidance for each rather than treating one completion as covering both people.
Talk to us
Tell us where you are in the process. We will confirm whether the EOP applies, what else is needed and give you a realistic timeline.
