Yes, you can bring your Filipino or Indonesian domestic helper on vacation overseas, but there are important travel requirements to check first. While she can leave and re-enter Malaysia with a valid Multiple Entry Visa (MEV), different countries have specific entry rules for foreign domestic helpers.
A common misconception is that domestic helpers can travel freely, but many countries require a specific visa, even if your helper won’t be working during the trip. To avoid last-minute issues at immigration, here’s what you need to know before travelling abroad with your maid.
Check Your Helper’s Re-Entry to Malaysia
Your helper must have a valid work permit with a Multiple Entry Visa (MEV) to exit and re-enter Malaysia without problems. If her permit expires soon, it should be renewed before travelling to avoid complications at the border.
Tip: The Immigration Department of Malaysia recommends starting the renewal process atleast 3 months before the current permit expires.
Check Your Destination’s Entry Requirements
Each country has different entry policies for Filipino and Indonesian domestic helpers. Some allow visa-free entry, while others may require a domestic worker visa, especially if the helper is expected to work during the trip.
How to Check:
- Visit the official embassy website of your destination country.
- Contact the embassy or consulate to confirm if a special visa is needed.
- Confirm whether the helper’s nationality affects visa eligibility.
- Ensure your helper’s passport is valid for at least 6 months from the travel date.
Countries That Require a Visa for Domestic Helpers
Always check with the embassy, but here are common examples:
- Schengen Countries (France, Germany, Italy, etc.)
Filipino and Indonesian helpers need a Schengen Visa. - United Kingdom
Requires an Overseas Domestic Worker (ODW) visa. The helper must have worked with you for at least 1 year. - United States
Requires a B-1 Visa. Employers must provide an employment contract and supporting documents.
Travelling to the Helper’s Home Country?
If you’re taking your Filipino or Indonesian helper back to her home country (e.g., for a family visit), she must carry a valid Employment Contract issued and endorsed by the Philippine or Indonesian Embassy in Malaysia. Without this document, she may be denied exit or re-entry into Malaysia.
Countries That May Allow Visa-Free Entry
Many ASEAN countries allow short-term visa-free stays for Filipino and Indonesian nationals. However, if the helper is expected to perform any work, even light duties, you should consult the destination country’s labour and immigration authorities for clarification.
Examples of typically visa-free countries:
- Singapore
- Indonesia
- Thailand
Still, always double-check if a work-related permit is needed based on the trip’s nature.
Prepare Necessary Travel Documents and Arrangements
Required Documents:
- Valid passport (at least 6 months’ validity)
- Valid work permit with MEV (Multiple Entry Visa)
- Visa for destination country (if required)
- Valid Employment Contract (especially for travel to home country)
Travel Arrangements:
- Holiday itinerary – Share the schedule and expectations.
- Work duties – Clarify if any tasks are expected, and agree on rest days and compensation.
- Insurance – Check if her coverage includes international travel.
- Costs – Clearly agree on who pays for flights, visa fees, and travel insurance.
Need Help Managing Your Domestic Helper?
Whether you’re travelling overseas or hiring a full-time maid in Johor Bahru, working with a reliable agency makes the entire process smoother. AP Fomas has over 20 years of experience in handling everything from maid recruitment to contract renewals and travel documentation.
For support with hiring, contract processing, or documentation for your maid’s travel:
WhatsApp: +6012-707 6113
Email: enquiry@apfomasmaid.com.my
Travel confidently with your domestic helper the right preparation makes all the difference.
