Review of Age Limit for Foreign Domestic Workers and Considerations for Appeals for Yearly Extensions by Employers

Mr Liang Eng Hwa asked the Minister for Manpower (a) whether the Ministry will review the age limit of 60 years old for foreign domestic workers (FDWs) to work in Singapore; and (b) whether the Ministry will consider employers’ appeals for yearly extensions of their FDWs’ work permit to work in Singapore beyond this age limit.

Dr Tan See Leng: As employers are responsible for the medical costs of their migrant domestic workers (MDWs), which generally increase with age. The age limit of 60 years old is to mitigate the cost impact on households. However, on appeal, the Ministry of Manpower may approve the renewal of work permits beyond the age limit, taking into account the MDW's health, experience and the employer's household needs.