Know the Full Picture Before You Commit
The cost of hiring a domestic helper in Malaysia is not just the agency fee. There are government-mandated costs — the monthly levy, FOMEMA medical examination, insurance — plus the helper's monthly salary. All of these are your obligation as the employer.
We present the full breakdown here so you can plan your budget accurately. Figures marked should be confirmed against current government rates at the time of your application, as both the levy and minimum salary are subject to government revision.
All figures on this page are accurate as of . Government-set amounts (levy, FOMEMA fees, insurance requirements) are subject to revision without notice. Confirm current rates at jtksm.gov.my and jim.gov.my. This is general information — not financial advice.
Cost Breakdown
| Cost Item | When Paid | Approximate Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Agency Placement Fee | Upfront, once | RMX,XXX | Confirm what is included before signing. |
| Government Levy (Indonesian) | Monthly | RM X,XXX/month | Paid by employer. Set by government, subject to revision. |
| Government Levy (Filipino) | Monthly | RM X,XXX/month | May differ from Indonesian rate. Confirm current rate. |
| Helper Salary (Indonesian) | Monthly | From RM XXX/month | Agreed in employment contract. Must meet minimum MOU rate. |
| Helper Salary (Filipino) | Monthly | From RM XXX/month | Agreed in contract. Must meet minimum bilateral rate. |
| FOMEMA Medical Examination | On arrival and at renewal | RM XXX (approx) | Mandatory medical screening for all domestic helpers. |
| PERKESO Insurance | Monthly | RM XX/month (approx) | Statutory social security contribution. Employer's responsibility. |
| Personal Accident Insurance | Annual | RM XXX–XXX/year (approx) | Required under Malaysian regulations for domestic helpers. |
| Work Permit Fee | Once per permit period | RM XXX (approx) | Government fee for permit issuance. Paid at application. |
| Airport Transport | Once | Included / RM XXX | Pick-up from KLIA or KLIA2. Confirm if included in agency fee. |
All amounts are approximate and subject to change. Contact us for a personalised quotation based on your household's specific situation.
First-Year Budget: What to Expect
To estimate your first-year total, add the one-off costs (agency fee, FOMEMA, work permit fee, insurance) to the annualised monthly costs (levy × 12 months + salary × 12 months + PERKESO × 12 months).
Based on current approximate figures:
- One-off upfront costs:
- Monthly recurring costs:
- Approximate first-year total:
Do not rely on these estimates for financial planning until you have confirmed current levy rates, minimum salary requirements, and our exact agency fee for your specific situation. Contact us for an accurate, up-to-date quotation.
FAQs — Hiring Cost
Who pays the agency fee — the employer or the maid?
In Malaysia, the employer pays the agency placement fee. Under JTKSM regulations, domestic helpers cannot be charged excessive recruitment fees. If another party is telling you the helper will pay her own fees, ask for the fee structure in writing and verify it against JTKSM guidelines at jtksm.gov.my.
What is the monthly levy and do I pay it every month?
Yes, the levy is a monthly payment by the employer for the duration of the helper's valid work permit. The rate is set by the government and varies by nationality. It is paid through the designated government channel, not to the agency.
Is there a minimum salary I must pay my domestic helper?
Yes. The minimum salary for Indonesian helpers is set under the Malaysia-Indonesia MOU, and for Filipino helpers under the Malaysia-Philippines MOU. Both are subject to revision. You may pay above the minimum — this is common for helpers with specialised skills or long service. The minimum cannot be contracted below.
Are there any hidden costs I should know about?
A reputable agency discloses all costs upfront. Ask for a written fee breakdown before signing anything. Legitimate costs include the agency fee, levy, salary, FOMEMA, insurance, and permit fees. If an agency charges for items not in the standard list or asks for additional payments not disclosed initially, ask for an itemised explanation and verify with JTKSM if in doubt.
