When your domestic helper completes her 2-year contract, she may request to return home for a short break. This is commonly referred to as home leave, and it's often provided as part of the contract renewal arrangement.

In this guide, Teo Express explains what home leave includes, what’s expected of employers, and how to manage the process smoothly — if you and your helper decide to continue the employment relationship.

1. What Is Home Leave?

Home leave is a paid break of up to 15 days, usually granted after your helper completes a 2-year contract and agrees to renew her contract with you.

This allows her to visit her family before starting a new 2-year term — and it's a meaningful way to reward her service and loyalty.

2. Is Home Leave Mandatory?

Home leave is not required by law, but it is often included in the employment contract, especially during contract renewal.

If your helper agrees to continue working for your household, most contracts (including those issued by Teo Express) provide:

• 15 days of paid home leave
• Employer-sponsored 2-way airfare (to and from her home country)

These benefits are subject to her contract renewal with you. If she is not renewing, employers are not obligated to provide home leave.

3. What Employers Typically Provide (Upon Renewal)

If home leave applies based on her renewal, employers are expected to:

✅ Sponsor a 2-way air ticket (economy class, to and from her home country)
✅ Grant 15 calendar days of paid leave (separate from annual leave)
✅ Agree on and document her return-to-work date
✅ Ensure her passport and work permit are valid for re-entry

4. Key Considerations for a Smooth Home Leave

• Book flights early to secure good rates and flight options
• Confirm all terms in writing with your helper
• Encourage her to travel with a copy of her Work Permit and your contact details
• Remind her of her return date and the importance of punctuality

5. Levy Waiver While Your Helper Is Overseas

If your helper is overseas for at least 7 consecutive days, you can apply for a Foreign Domestic Worker levy waiver for that period via MOM’s eService.

6. What Happens After Her Return?

Once she’s back from home leave:

• Her new contract begins
• You may need to renew her Work Permit (if not already done)
• Your helper is typically refreshed, motivated, and grateful for the time off

Final Thoughts

Home leave is not just a benefit — it’s a gesture of trust and respect. If your helper is continuing with your family, giving her a chance to reconnect with loved ones helps build a long-term working relationship.

Need help arranging home leave or renewing your helper's contract?
Let Teo Express take care of the logistics — from paperwork to flight booking.

📞 +65 89221899
🌐 www.teoexpress.com.sg
📍 Open Monday to Saturday – walk-ins welcome

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