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Confinement Nanny Cost in Singapore (2026 Guide)
Bringing a baby home comes with plenty to prepare for, and one of the biggest questions many parents ask is this: how much does a confinement nanny cost in Singapore in 2026?
The short answer is that the cost can vary quite a lot depending on the type of help you need, the agency, the nanny’s experience, your confinement period, and whether there are extra costs such as levy, permit fees, insurance, festive surcharges, or care for twins. Based on current market references, a 28-day live-in confinement nanny in Singapore commonly falls around S$2,300 to S$5,000, while daytime-only care is often around S$1,600 to S$3,200. Other published market references also place a typical 28-day package at around S$2,500 to S$3,500, with budget options for shorter periods starting from S$1,999 for 14 days from some agencies.
That said, this guide breaks down the numbers clearly so you know what to expect, what affects the final price, and how to budget with fewer surprises.
What Is a Confinement Nanny?
A confinement nanny is someone hired during the postpartum period to support the mother and newborn at home. In Singapore, confinement nanny service often includes caring for the baby, helping the mother rest and recover, preparing confinement meals or soups, assisting with baby bathing and feeding routines, doing laundry for the mother and baby, and sharing practical baby care guidance. Minor household help may also be included, but most families should not expect full maid-level housework.
For many parents, especially first-time parents, the value of a confinement nanny is not only in the physical help but also in the reassurance that someone experienced is there during the early weeks.
General Cost Guide (For Planning Purposes)
Most parents in Singapore use these market ranges as a starting point when budgeting for a confinement nanny:
- Full-time stay-in nanny (28 days): ~S$2,300 to S$5,000
- Daytime-only nanny: ~S$1,600 to S$3,200
- Levy: Around S$60 per month
- Angbao: One upon arrival and one upon departure; commonly S$30–S$50.
- Meals: Please provide 3 meals a day for your nanny
These figures offer a general planning range and will differ depending on the nanny’s experience, season, and household needs.
For PEM, you can secure your nanny with just a $1,080 deposit, and you’ll receive a clear quotation based on your EDD and preferred duration.
Why Confinement Nanny Prices Vary
There is no single flat rate across Singapore because every family’s needs are a little different. Here are some of the main factors that can affect how much you pay.
1. Live-In or Daytime-Only Care
A live-in nanny usually costs more because she provides fuller support across the day and night. This is often the preferred choice for mothers who want help with night feeds, round-the-clock baby care, and more complete support during the first month.
Daytime-only care can cost less, but it may also mean you and your family need to handle the overnight routines yourselves.
2. Duration of Service
Not every family books the same number of days. Some agencies offer 14-day packages, while others provide 28, 35, or even 42-day options. Naturally, a longer arrangement usually means a higher total fee. Some agencies also note that parents should state clearly if they need a period different from the usual 28 days.
3. Experience and Demand
A more experienced nanny with strong reviews, cooking skills, and baby care knowledge may command a higher fee. Festive periods can also push prices up because demand rises while supply becomes tighter. Published market references specifically mention that costs can increase during festive seasons such as Chinese New Year.
4. Twins or More Than One Baby
If you are expecting twins, you should expect the quote to be higher. Some agencies state that special rates apply for twins, and broader market guidance also notes that multiple babies usually increase the cost.
5. Household Needs
Some agencies consider factors such as whether there are pets at home, how many family members need meals, whether the home has stairs, and whether an English-speaking nanny is needed. These details can affect which nanny is suitable and may also affect pricing.
The Extra Costs Many Parents Forget to Budget For
This is where many families get caught off guard. The package fee may not be the final amount you spend.
1. Work Permit Application Fee
If you are hiring a foreign confinement nanny under MOM’s confinement nanny work pass scheme, the Work Permit application fee is S$35 per application. MOM states that employers or appointed employment agencies can apply, and the processing time is typically within one week unless more information is needed.
2. Monthly Levy
MOM requires employers to pay a levy for a confinement nanny. The amount depends on the baby’s citizenship:
- S$60 per month if the newborn is a Singapore citizen
- S$300 per month if the newborn is not a Singapore citizen
This is one of the highest non-package costs to remember when budgeting.
3. Medical Insurance
MOM’s official guidance states that employers should buy medical insurance for the confinement nanny, and the page notes the minimum required coverage levels linked to domestic worker medical insurance rules. MOM’s key facts page also states that medical insurance is required.
Some third-party estimates put this cost at around S$250, though the actual amount depends on the insurer and plan chosen.
4. Ang Bao
Ang bao is commonly treated as customary rather than compulsory, but it is still something many families include in their budget. One current market guide says it is common to give one ang bao on arrival and one on departure, often around S$30 to S$50. Another agency guide gives wider discretionary ranges, showing just how much this can vary from family to family.
Because practice differs a lot, it is best to treat this as a flexible budget item rather than a fixed rule.
5. Meals and Accommodation
Families are generally expected to provide the nanny with proper welfare during her stay. Agency guidance commonly notes that this includes accommodation and meals, and one source specifically says parents should provide breakfast, lunch and dinner.
This may sound small, but over several weeks it adds up. It can also increase your grocery spending, utility bills, and overall household costs.
6. Ingredients, Herbs, and Kitchen Items
If your nanny cooks confinement meals, soups, or herbal preparations, you may need to supply the ingredients. Some agencies also state that herbs or confinement meals are not included in the service fee. Published cost guides mention that some households end up buying extra pots, pans, slow cookers, or double boilers as well.
Is Hiring a Confinement Nanny Worth the Cost?
For many parents, the answer comes down to support, rest, and peace of mind. A confinement nanny can be especially helpful when:
- you are a first-time parent
- you do not have family support at home
- you want help with both newborn care and postnatal recovery
- you are recovering from a difficult birth or C-section
- you want someone experienced to guide you through the first few weeks
At the same time, it is still a significant expense. That is why it helps to compare not just the quoted package price, but also what is actually included.
A cheaper quote may not always be cheaper in the end if it excludes replacement support, permit application help, meals, or other practical costs.
What to Check Before You Commit
Before confirming any confinement nanny arrangement, it helps to ask these questions:
What is included in the package fee?
Check whether the quote covers only the nanny’s service, or also support with work permit paperwork and replacement help.
Are levy, insurance, and application fees included?
Some agencies clearly state that these are excluded, so do not assume they are already built into the package.
Are there extra fees for twins, festive periods, or extra family meals?
This is important if your situation is not a standard single-baby, 28-day arrangement.
What should the family provide at home?
You may need to prepare a sleeping area, meals, groceries, and certain cooking equipment.
Tips to Budget Better for a Confinement Nanny in 2026
Book early
Peak periods can push prices up. If your EDD is near major festive periods, it is smart to start earlier.
Ask for a full quotation
Do not stop at the package fee. Ask for a full breakdown, including levy, insurance, permit fee, and any possible surcharges.
Be clear about your needs
Mention early if you have twins, pets, stairs, or a larger household. This helps avoid mismatch and surprise charges later.
Set aside a buffer
Even with a detailed quote, there may still be small additional costs, such as groceries, kitchen items, or other household expenses.
Final Thoughts
The cost of a confinement nanny in Singapore in 2026 is not just about one headline number. While many families will see package prices somewhere between S$2,300 and S$5,000 for a 28-day live-in arrangement, the real total can be higher once you include permit fees, levy, insurance, ang bao, meals, groceries, and other household expenses.
The best way to plan is to look at both cost and value. A good confinement nanny can make the early postpartum period feel more manageable, especially when rest, recovery, and newborn care all hit at once.
When you compare options, focus on what support you truly need, what the package includes, and whether the total cost fits your family’s budget comfortably.
FAQ
How much does it cost to hire a confinement nanny in Singapore?
Your confinement nanny cost Singapore can vary depending on factors such as the length of service and your family’s specific needs. For example, requests such as cooking or laundry for additional family members, or special arrangements at home, may affect the overall cost. You can secure a PEM nanny with a deposit from $1,080. For a personalised quotation, please contact us directly!
Do I need to pay a levy?
Yes, as required by the government, you will need to pay monthly levy fees for your confinement nanny.
Are angbaos required?
Yes. One is given on the nanny’s first day and one on her last day. The amount is up to your discretion.
Will my utility bills increase?
Usually, yes, as extra laundry and cooking naturally add to your electricity and water usage.
Do I need a spare room?
A private resting area is recommended. Ideally, provide your nanny with a proper bedroom, a separate mattress (preferably with a bed frame), and a space shared with no male adult.
Is hiring a confinement nanny worth it?
Many mums find that with a confinement nanny, the support, guidance, and rest they receive make a significant difference to their recovery and overall confinement experience.
