Some employers in Singapore may face financial or personal limitations when applying for a Migrant Domestic Worker (MDW). To support such households, the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) provides special schemes that allow eligible employers to hire a domestic helper under alternative income or sponsorship arrangements.
At Grace Management & Consultancy Services Pte Ltd (GMC), we help employers understand whether they qualify for these schemes and guide them through the Employers’ Orientation Programme (EOP) and Work Permit application process.
This guide explains the Joint Income Scheme and Sponsorship Scheme, including eligibility, requirements, and application considerations.
What Are MDW Special Schemes?
MDW special schemes are alternative pathways that allow certain households to hire a domestic helper even if they do not meet standard income requirements.
These schemes include:
- Joint Income Scheme (JIS)
- Sponsorship Scheme
They are designed to ensure that households with genuine caregiving needs can still access domestic support.
You can also explore our main guide on how to apply for a Work Permit for a domestic helper.
1. Joint Income Scheme
The Joint Income Scheme allows employers to combine income with another working adult in the household to meet eligibility requirements.
Who is it for?
This scheme is generally suitable for:
- Married couples applying together
- Households where one person’s income alone is insufficient
- Families requiring combined financial assessment
How it works
Under this scheme:
- The incomes of two eligible individuals are combined
- MOM assesses total household financial capacity
- The employer remains the official Work Permit holder
Key requirement
Both individuals must be living in the same household and contributing to household income assessment.
2. Sponsorship Scheme
The Sponsorship Scheme is designed for employers who do not have sufficient income, such as elderly individuals or those without steady earnings.
Who is it for?
This scheme is commonly used by:
- Senior citizens living alone
- Retirees with limited or no income
- Individuals supported financially by family members
How it works
Under this scheme:
- A sponsor (usually a family member) provides financial support
- The sponsor must meet MOM’s income requirements
- The employer remains the official MDW employer
The sponsor is not the employer but provides financial backing for the application.
Eligibility Considerations for Special Schemes
While each scheme has specific requirements, MOM generally considers:
- Household caregiving needs (elderly, children, medical conditions)
- Financial ability of the household or sponsor
- Stability of income or support arrangement
- Proper documentation and declarations
Employers may be asked to provide supporting documents during application.
Application Process for Special Schemes
The application process is generally similar to a standard MDW Work Permit application, with additional documentation for the scheme selected.
Step 1: Confirm eligibility
Determine whether you qualify under:
- Joint Income Scheme, or
- Sponsorship Scheme
If unsure, GMC can assist with eligibility assessment.
Step 2: Attend Employers’ Orientation Programme (EOP)
First-time employers may need to complete the EOP before applying.
👉 Register here: https://www.eop.com.sg
Step 3: Submit Work Permit application
Applications are submitted via MOM’s FDW eService, indicating the chosen special scheme.
Step 4: Provide supporting documents
Depending on the scheme, you may need:
- Proof of income (for joint applicants)
- Sponsor income documents (for sponsorship cases)
- Household information
- Caregiving justification (if applicable)
Step 5: Wait for MOM approval
If approved, you will receive an In-Principle Approval (IPA) and proceed with:
- Insurance purchase
- Security bond (if required)
- MDW arrival arrangements
Common Mistakes in Special Scheme Applications
Many applications are delayed or rejected due to avoidable errors such as:
- Incorrect income declarations
- Missing sponsor documentation
- Applying under the wrong scheme
- Not completing EOP when required
- Incomplete household information
When Should You Consider a Special Scheme?
You may want to explore these schemes if:
- Your individual income does not meet standard requirements
- You are a retiree or elderly applicant
- You share household financial responsibilities
- You require caregiving support but cannot meet standard criteria alone
How GMC Supports Employers
At Grace Management & Consultancy Services (GMC), we assist employers with:
- EOP registration and completion
- MDW onboarding support
We help ensure applications are completed correctly and efficiently.
Learn more:
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply for a domestic helper if I have low income?
Yes. You may be eligible under the Joint Income Scheme or Sponsorship Scheme depending on your situation.
What is the difference between the two schemes?
The Joint Income Scheme combines incomes of two household members, while the Sponsorship Scheme relies on a sponsor’s income.
Is the sponsor the employer?
No. The sponsor supports financially but is not the official employer of the MDW.
Do I still need to attend EOP?
Yes, first-time employers may still be required to complete the Employers’ Orientation Programme.
Related Resources
- Work Permit Application Guide
- MDW Eligibility Requirements
- Maid Levy Guide Singapore
- Maid Insurance Guide
- Employers’ Orientation Programme (EOP)
- Transfer Maid Guide
About Grace Management & Consultancy Services (GMC)
Grace Management & Consultancy Services Pte Ltd (GMC) is a Singapore-based training and consultancy organisation supporting employers through employment-related education and compliance programmes, including the Employers’ Orientation Programme (EOP).
We help employers understand Work Permit requirements and navigate MOM processes confidently.
Learn more:
Source This article is based on publicly available guidance from the Singapore Ministry of Manpower (MOM). Employers should always refer to MOM for the latest official requirements and updates.