Helper Rest Days in Singapore: A Guide for Employers

Rest days give domestic helpers time to recharge, meet friends and attend to personal matters. Here are the key requirements for planning your helper’s time off.

How many rest days is your helper entitled to?

Your helper is entitled to one rest day each week, on a day mutually agreed between both of you.

Since 1 January 2023, helpers must receive at least one rest day each month that cannot be replaced with payment, even if they agree to work instead.

What if your helper works on a rest day?

Apart from the mandatory monthly rest day, you and your helper may agree in writing beforehand for her to work on a rest day. You must provide either:

• A mutually agreed replacement rest day within the same month; or

• Additional payment of at least one day’s salary for each rest day worked.

The minimum payment is calculated as:

Monthly salary ÷ 26 = payment for each rest day worked

For example, if your helper earns $650 a month, the minimum additional payment is $25 for each rest day worked.

How can rest days be arranged?

Rest days do not have to fall on Sundays. By mutual agreement, the mandatory monthly rest day can be taken as one full day or two half days.

If both of you agree in writing beforehand, this rest day may be deferred by up to one month. It must be taken by the end of the following month.

Discuss arrangements early and keep a written record. If your household needs childcare or elderly care, plan alternative support so your helper can take her agreed time off.

Need help with rest day arrangements?

Contact All Star Employment for guidance on your helper’s rest days and employment arrangements.