What is the 6ME medical check-up?
The six-monthly medical examination (6ME) is a health screening the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) requires for migrant domestic workers throughout their employment. It screens for pregnancy and infectious diseases, and includes checks on body mass index and for visible signs of abuse.
What tests are done at the 6ME?
Not every test is done at every 6ME. According to MOM: the pregnancy and VDRL (syphilis) tests are done every 6 months; the HIV test every 2 years; and tuberculosis screening once, upon 2 years of stay in Singapore. Body mass index and visible signs of abuse are also checked. MOM's 6ME letter states exactly which tests your helper needs — please bring it.
Does my helper need an HIV test and chest X-ray every six months?
No. That is a common misunderstanding. Under MOM's requirements the HIV test is done every 2 years, and TB screening once after 2 years of stay in Singapore. Only the pregnancy and syphilis tests are done at every six-monthly examination.
Does my helper still need a 6ME if she is 50 or older?
No. If your helper is 50 years old or above, she does not need to go for the 6ME. She only needs a medical examination when her Work Permit is renewed.
Who arranges and pays for the 6ME?
The employer. You must arrange the appointment, pay for the 6ME and any medical expenses arising from it, and ensure your helper completes it by the due date stated in MOM's notification.
How will I know when the 6ME is due?
MOM sends you a notification letter and 6ME form by post. You can also log in to MOM's FDW eService to check her last 6ME date, or whether she is due for one.
Do you submit the 6ME results to MOM?
Yes. Under MOM's rules, all results must be submitted by clinics using MOM's Medical Examination (ME) Portal — not by the employer — regardless of which tests were done. MOM then notifies employers at their registered email address, and you can view the results through MOM's FDW eService. If you do not see results three weeks after her examination, please check with the clinic.
Can I be present during my helper's 6ME?
No. MOM requires that employers and their representatives are not present during the examination. You are welcome to accompany her to the clinic, but not into the consultation room. This is a deliberate safeguard.
What happens if my helper fails the 6ME?
If she does not pass her 6ME, MOM requires you to cancel her Work Permit and send her home immediately. Our doctors will explain the finding clearly and advise you both on what happens next.
What if she is overseas when her 6ME is due?
If she is away on overseas leave when the 6ME falls due, you can apply to MOM to postpone it until she returns.
What if her employment is ending soon?
If you are sending her home within one month of her 6ME due date, you may choose not to send her for the examination. If you intend to keep her for more than a month beyond the due date, you must apply to MOM for a waiver.
Is my helper required to have the measles vaccine?
Since 1 September 2025, MOM requires MDWs to have measles immunity if the household has a child under 7 who is not fully vaccinated against measles. At Work Permit issuance or renewal, you must declare one of three things: that she is already immune; that all children under 7 in your household are fully vaccinated; or that a vaccination appointment has been booked for her.
What counts as proof of measles immunity?
A completed MMR vaccination record (two doses at least 28 days apart), a positive serology (blood) test, or laboratory confirmation of past measles infection. MOM conducts sample checks and may request documentary proof.
What happens if my helper is not immune to measles?
Where the requirement applies and she is not immune, MOM may suspend work pass privileges until valid proof of vaccination is provided. Employers bear all costs of testing or vaccination. MOM estimates two MMR doses cost around $80 to $140.
Does my helper need to fast, and what should she bring?
No fasting is required. She should bring her passport or Work Permit / FIN card, and the 6ME notification letter and form issued by MOM.
What is the difference between the 6ME and the Work Permit medical examination?
The Work Permit medical examination is done once, before her pass is issued or renewed, and is more extensive. The 6ME is a routine screening carried out during employment. They serve different purposes and are not interchangeable.
