Hiring a maid in Johor Bahru can greatly ease the demands of managing a household. Whether it’s caring for children, supporting elderly parents, or handling daily chores, foreign domestic helpers (FDH) have become a trusted source of help for many Malaysian families. However, as a first-time employer, it’s important to understand the rules, eligibility requirements, and processes set by the Immigration Department of Malaysia before bringing a maid into your home.
This guide provides you with all the key details you need to know to make the process smooth and hassle-free.
Approved Countries for Hiring Maids in Johor Bahru
Malaysia only allows foreign domestic helpers from approved source countries. Currently, employers can hire maids from:
- Indonesia
- Philippines
- Cambodia
- Sri Lanka
- Thailand
- India
- Vietnam
- Laos
- Nepal
Eligibility Conditions for Foreign Domestic Helpers
Before applying for a maid in Johor Bahru, both the helper and the employer must meet specific requirements. For the maid (FDH):
- Must be female, aged between 21 and 45 years old
- Reside in the country of origin
- Enter Malaysia with a valid Visa With Reference (VDR)
- Must be certified medically fit by a FOMEMA-appointed clinic
Helpers who fail the medical examination are not permitted to work and must be repatriated immediately.
For the employer:
- Must be a Malaysian citizen or permanent resident with a stable income
- Cannot be declared bankrupt
- Must have children under 15 years old or elderly parents in need of care
- Must meet the minimum household income requirement depending on the helper’s country of origin (e.g., RM7,000 for Indonesia, RM5,000 for the Philippines)
Muslim employers are only allowed to hire Muslim maids, and non-Muslim employers must respect the religious practices of Muslim helpers (such as prayer times and fasting).
Special Terms for Indonesian Domestic Helpers
Following the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Malaysia and Indonesia, hiring Indonesian domestic helpers comes with specific conditions:
- Maximum enrollment cost: RM15,000 (through appointed agencies only)
- Minimum monthly wage: RM1,500
- Minimum household income: RM7,000
- Employment contract must be endorsed by the Embassy of Indonesia
- Can only be hired as a housekeeper, cook, childcare provider, or elderly caretaker
- Employers can request replacements under certain conditions (e.g., if the helper absconds or is unsuitable)
Salary, Contracts, and Work Permits
Each maid in Johor Bahru must have:
- A legally binding employment contract endorsed by the relevant embassy
- A separate valid work permit (PLKS) issued by the Immigration Department
- Payroll records and timely salary payments (at least once a month)
The employer is responsible for medical expenses, proper accommodation, nutritious meals, and ensuring the helper receives adequate rest.
Application Process for First-Time Employers
- Submit your application through a licensed employment agency registered with the Immigration Department (like AP Fomas).
- Ensure all documents are complete, including proof of income, marriage certificate, children’s birth certificates, and supporting medical reports if needed.
- Once approved, the helper will apply for a Visa With Reference (VDR) at the Malaysian Representative Office in her country.
- Upon arrival in Malaysia, the maid must undergo a medical check-up at a FOMEMA clinic within one month.
If certified fit, the maid will be issued with a PL(KS) (Temporary Employment Pass), allowing her to start work legally.
Key Responsibilities of Employers
As an employer, you must:
- Provide a safe and respectful working environment
- Avoid overburdening the helper with tasks outside her contract (e.g., car washing)
- Respect her religious obligations
- Report immediately to Immigration if the helper absconds, passes away, or is involved in any legal issue
- Apply for extensions of the work permit at least three months before expiry
Failure to follow these rules can result in penalties or blacklisting from hiring maids in the future.
Final Thoughts
Hiring a maid in Johor Bahru for the first time may seem complicated, but with the right guidance, it can be a smooth and rewarding experience. By understanding the regulations, preparing the correct documents, and working with a licensed agency, you can secure reliable help for your household while staying fully compliant with Malaysian law.
Trusted Domestic Assistance for Your Peace of Mind
Since its establishment in 2000, Agensi Pekerjaan Fomas Sdn. Bhd. (AP Fomas) has been a trusted name in Malaysia for over two decades. With a reputation built on professionalism and efficiency, we have proudly served families in Johor, Kuala Lumpur, Selangor, and beyond.
Specializing in the recruitment and training of domestic helpers from countries such as Indonesia, the Philippines, and others, AP Fomas ensures that every candidate goes through a strict pre-screening and pre-selection process. This way, employers are introduced only to the most suitable helpers who match their household needs.
With more than 20 years of experience, 10,000 satisfied clients, and a wide pool of qualified candidates, AP Fomas continues to be a leading choice for families looking to hire maids in Johor Bahru and across Malaysia.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The cost depends on the maid’s country of origin. For example, hiring an Indonesian domestic helper may cost up to RM15,000 through an appointed agency, with a minimum monthly wage of RM1,500. AP Fomas will guide you through the full breakdown of costs and requirements.
First-time employers must have a minimum monthly household income (ranging from RM3,000 to RM7,000 depending on the maid’s nationality) and either children under 15 years old or elderly parents in need of care. Employers must also provide proper accommodation, meals, and a safe working environment.
Yes, but only under strict conditions. For example, to hire a second maid, your household income must exceed RM10,000 per month, and you must provide a valid reason (such as large family needs or elderly care).
The process usually takes 6–8 weeks, depending on documentation, medical check-ups, and government approvals. Working with AP Fomas ensures a smooth and timely application.
Licensed agencies handle all the paperwork, approvals, and training, ensuring compliance with Malaysian immigration laws. This gives you peace of mind knowing that everything is done legally and professionally.
Start Your Journey with AP Fomas Today
Looking for a reliable, well-trained maid in Johor Bahru? At AP Fomas, we make the hiring process seamless, so you can enjoy more time with your family while leaving the hard work to us.
Enquiries: enquiry@apfomasmaid.com.my
WhatsApp us directly: [Click here to chat]
AP Fomas – your trusted partner for domestic assistance in Malaysia.
