Hiring a confinement nanny offers mothers essential postpartum support. However, before a confinement nanny can legally begin work in Singapore, employers are required under Ministry of Manpower (MOM) regulations to ensure that the appropriate medical insurance coverage is in place.
This guide explains what insurance is required, why it is necessary under MOM regulations, typical coverage considerations and how parents can make informed decisions based on regulatory requirements and real-world risks.
Why Confinement Nanny Insurance Is Required Under MOM Regulations in Singapore
A confinement nanny working in Singapore under a short-term work permit must be covered by medical insurance before she starts employment. This requirement helps to protect:
- Parents who are the employers, from unexpected medical expenses and ensuring compliance with MOM regulations.
- Confinement nannies, in the event of accidents or medical emergencies
Common Oversight Parents Make
From our experience supporting families hiring confinement nannies, many parents focus primarily on securing the nanny and completing the work permit application and only look into insurance arrangements later. While MOM does not require insurance documents to be submitted as part of the work permit approval process, employers remain responsible for ensuring that the required insurance coverage is active before the nanny’s first day of work. Clarifying insurance obligations early helps parents avoid last-minute stress and ensures the nanny is properly covered from the start of employment.
MOM Requirements for Confinement Nanny Insurance (Updated 2025 Rules)
According to the Ministry of Manpower (MOM), employers hiring a Malaysian confinement nanny are required to ensure that medical insurance with a minimum coverage of at least $60,000 for inpatient care and day surgery is in place.
You can refer to MOM’s official guidelines here:
- MOM medical insurance requirements for Work Permit holders
- MOM eligibility requirements for hiring a confinement nanny
1. Medical Insurance (Minimum $60,000 per year)
Every employer must purchase insurance that provides:
- At least $60,000/year coverage for hospitalisation and day surgery
- Coverage starting from the nanny’s first work day
- Coverage valid until confinement nanny work permit cancellation
- Coverage for COVID-19 related hospitalisation (included in most plans)
This is the most important MOM requirement.
2. Security Bond
MOM does NOT require a $5,000 security bond for Malaysian confinement nanny.
3. Personal Accident Insurance
Although FDW-level insurance is not required for confinement nannies, most insurers include:
- Accidental death coverage
- Permanent disability coverage
The minimum is typically $60,000, meeting MOM safety expectations.
Age Limits: What Parents Should Be Aware Of
While the Ministry of Manpower allows confinement nannies aged 23 to 70 years old to work in Singapore, parents should note that insurance policies may impose stricter age limits. In practice, some insurers only provide coverage for nannies up to 65 years old. This means that although a nanny may meet MOM’s age eligibility, insurance availability may be more limited for older nannies. Parents are therefore encouraged to check insurance age limits early to avoid last-minute complications and ensure that the required coverage is in place before the nanny starts work.
What Does Confinement Nanny Insurance Cover? (Breakdown of Benefits)
Coverage differs by plan tier. The main components include:
1. Accidental Death & Permanent Disability
Provides financial compensation if the nanny suffers life-altering injuries during the employment period.
2. Outpatient Medical Expenses Due to Injury
Covers injuries from accidents. GP or A&E visits coverage depends on insurance agency.
3. Hospitalisation & Surgical Expenses (MOM Required)
Includes:
- Inpatient hospitalisation
- Day surgery
- Pre- & post-hospitalisation treatments (varies by plan)
- COVID-19 hospitalisation
Minimum coverage: $60,000 per year (MOM rule).
Enhanced plans offer higher limits.
Is There a Specific “Confinement Nanny Insurance” Policy?
Parents should note that there is no separate insurance policy category specifically labelled as “confinement nanny insurance” in Singapore. In practice, insurance coverage for confinement nannies is typically based on domestic helper insurance policies that meet MOM’s medical insurance requirements. These policies are commonly used to fulfil the required insurance obligations for short-term confinement nanny employment.
Confinement Nanny Insurance Plans — Basic vs Standard vs Enhanced
Below is a simplified comparison based on industry-standard plans:
Key Benefits Comparison Table
| Coverage | Basic | Standard | Enhanced |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accidental Death / Disability | $60,000 | $60,000 | $80,000 |
| Outpatient Injury | $1,500 | $2,000 | $3,000 |
| Personal Liability | $25,000 | $25,000 | $75,000 |
| Special Death Grant | Not Covered | $2,000 | $3,000 |
| Termination Expenses | Not Covered | $150 | $500 |
| Wage Compensation | Not Covered | $20/day | $35/day |
| Hospitalisation Coverage | $60,000 | $60,000 | $60,000+ |
Which Plan Should Parents Choose? (Our Recommendation)
Choose Basic If…
- You want the lowest cost
- You only want to meet MOM minimum requirements
- You are comfortable with co-payment and lower benefits
Choose Standard If…
- You want more outpatient coverage
- You prefer better practical protection
Choose Enhanced If…
- You want the highest liability & medical protection
- You prefer lower out-of-pocket risk
- You want peace of mind for the entire confinement period
Enhanced plans are strongly recommended because medical bills in Singapore can be expensive. But as confinement period is short term, the Basic plan is a good option for families with tight budget.
Why Minimum Coverage May Not Be Enough
What Happens If You Do NOT Buy Insurance?
If you fail to purchase the required insurance:
❌ You may be fully liable for ALL medical bills
❌ You may breach MOM regulations
How Long Should the Insurance Coverage Last?
Insurance must cover the entire period the nanny works for you:
- 14 days
- 28 days
- 40 days
- Up to 16 weeks
If you extend the nanny’s stay, the insurance must be extended as well. Some insurance agencies may only offer 1 year or 2 year but you can terminate with pro-rated refund.
How to Buy Confinement Nanny Insurance (Step-by-Step)
Step 1 — Choose Your Plan
Select Basic, Standard, or Enhanced depending on your needs.
Step 2 — Provide Nanny Details
- Full name
- Passport
- Date of birth
- Nationality (must be Malaysian)
Step 3 — Activate Before Work Permit Start Date
The policy must start before or on the nanny’s first day.
Step 4 — Receive Policy Documents
You will receive:
- Certificate of Insurance
- Policy wording
- Emergency contact information
Common Questions Parents Have About Confinement Nanny Insurance
Parents often ask whether insurance is really necessary for a short confinement period, especially when the nanny appears healthy and experienced. However, insurance is designed for unexpected situations, not daily routines. Even during a short employment period, having the right coverage provides peace of mind and ensures that both the family and the nanny are protected should unforeseen circumstances arise.
Below are answers to some of the most common questions parents ask about confinement nanny insurance in Singapore.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is insurance compulsory for confinement nannies?
Yes. MOM mandates a minimum $60,000 medical insurance for Malaysian confinement nannies.
Do Malaysian confinement nannies require a $5,000 security bond?
No. Malaysian confinement nannies are exempt.
Can my nanny start work before insurance is purchased?
No. MOM requires insurance before work begins.
Do I need personal accident insurance for the nanny?
Most insurance plans already include accident coverage.
Can I get a refund if the nanny leaves early?
Some insurers provide prorated refunds.
My confinement nanny is above 65 years old. Can she still be insured?
Insurance availability depends on the insurer’s underwriting criteria. While MOM allows nannies up to 70 years old, some insurers may have lower age limits. Parents should check with insurers directly to confirm coverage options.
Final Thoughts — Protect Your Nanny & Your Family
Buying confinement nanny insurance is not just a legal requirement. It is a practical safeguard. Medical emergencies are unpredictable and proper coverage ensures peace of mind throughout your postpartum recovery.
A small insurance investment protects you from:
✔ Large medical bills
✔ Liability risks
✔ Permit issues
✔ Unexpected emergencies
NannySOS guides parents with clear information on MOM requirements so you can hire your confinement nanny confidently and compliantly.
Disclaimer
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and is based on publicly available guidelines from the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) at the time of writing. Insurance requirements, coverage terms and regulations may change. This content does not constitute legal or insurance advice. Parents are advised to refer to MOM’s official website and consult their insurer directly for the most up-to-date and accurate information before making any decisions.
Last updated: 2025