Initial Prepaid SIM Card Issuance during Settling-In Program (SIP)

Many employers mistakenly believe that the first prepaid SIM card given to foreign domestic helpers is provided by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM). This is actually issued during the Settling-In Program (SIP) and sponsored by Singtel.

This prepaid SIM card is not registered with MOM and is also not registered with the bank initially.

When first time foreign domestic helpers arrive in Singapore, they usually receive a Singtel Prepaid $2 SIM card during the SIP that comes with around 2GB of free data plan. if they need more data plan, they can top up the prepaid SIM card.

Prepaid SIM Card Registration Using Passport

All foreign domestic helpers get their work permit cards 1 week after they completed the registration for the work permit card at MOM.

When they receive the Prepaid SIM card, they will register their SIM cards using their passports. This is because they do not have work permit card then.

Important Updated Regulation

Starting July 15, 2024, regulations by IMDA (Info-communications Media Development Authority) state that SIM registration using a passport is only valid for 30 days. If registration is not completed within this timeframe, it will lead to suspension without prior notice.

Re-registration of Prepaid SIM Card for Maid

To keep the Singtel prepaid SIM card active, you need to re-register the maid prepaid SIM card. Go to a Singtel Shop, Singtel Exclusive Retailer, using either Singpass or a Work Permit. Do this within 30 days after the first registration of the prepaid SIM card before the Singtel Prepaid SIM card become inactive. 

This timely action avoids any disruptions that could affect your foreign domestic helper’s ability to reach out to their family.

Alternative Solution for Prepaid SIM Card

If you can’t bring your maid to visit a Singtel Shop, Singtel Exclusive Retailer within 30 days, you can get a new prepaid SIM card at any local phone store. 

Important notes: You will need the foreign domestic helper’s work permit or SingPass to buy a new prepaid SIM card.

Where to buy Prepaid SIM Card?

You can buy new prepaid SIM card at any neighborhood phone shop or Singtel shop, Starhub shop, M1 shop or any service provider shop that is convenient to you.

Buying a new prepaid SIM card using work permit does not need a re-registration. Remember to teach your helper to top up about every 30 days before the prepaid SIM card becomes inactive. It is important to ensures your foreign domestic helper in Singapore stays connected to her family.

Managing Phone Usage

Encourage your foreign domestic helper to balance her work duties with personal communication by connecting with her family after work hours to maintain productivity and focus.

Supporting her ability to stay in touch with loved ones while responsibly managing phone use protects her well-being and job performance.

Do remind your foreign domestic helper NOT to post any videos or photos of your family to facebook, tiktok, instagra or any other social media platform. This is important to protect your family privacy and scam prevention. 

For further insight into the importance of managing mobile usage, check out this video.

• Talking Point | What Are Domestic Helpers Really Doing On Their Phones?  About the show: Talking Point investigates a current issue or event, offering different perspectives to local stories and revealing how it all affects you.