Foreign Worker Medical Insurance (FWMI)
Foreign Worker Medical Insurance (FWMI Insurance) is a mandatory health insurance policy required by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) in Singapore. It provides medical coverage for foreign employees in the event of illness or injury during their employment in Singapore.
MOM’s Requirements for FWMI Insurance in Singapore
- Under the MOM regulations, employers must purchase and maintain foreign worker medical insurance for Work Permit and S Pass Holders. Here are the key requirements:
- Minimum coverage of $60,000 per year for each worker
- Coverage must include inpatient care and day surgery, including bills that may not be work-related
- The insurance policy must remain valid throughout the entire employment period
- The cost cannot be passed to the foreign workers
Non-compliance with these FWMI insurance rules can result in MOM penalties, revocation of work passes, or hiring restrictions.
Foreign Worker Medical Insurance Coverage Limits & Benefits
Minimum Coverage Requirements
- Inpatient Care: Minimum coverage per policy year
- Outpatient Care: Annual limits for non-hospitalization treatments
- Emergency Treatment: Immediate coverage for urgent medical situations
- Personal Accident: Coverage for accidental death and disability
Enhanced Coverage Options
- Higher Annual Coverage Limits
- Extended Outpatient Benefits
- Additional Wellness Programs
Foreign Worker Medical Insurance Application Process
Step-by-Step Guide
- 01
Assessment
Evaluate your foreign worker insurance needs and MOM requirements
- 02
Quotation
Receive detailed premium quotes based on worker categories and coverage level
- 03
Application
Complete insurance application with worker details and employment information
- 04
Approval
Obtain MOM-approved policy documentation
- 05
Activation
Activate coverage and distribute policy information to workers
Required Documentation
- Work permit applications or renewals
- Employee’s personal information and medical history
- Employment contracts
- Past insurance coverage details (if applicable)
Confinement Nanny Insurance in Singapore
In addition to general medical insurance for foreign workers, there is also specialized insurance available for foreign confinement nannies working in Singapore. These nannies are typically hired through confinement nanny agencies to assist families during the postpartum period. Although they are not considered long-term employees, the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) still requires employers to provide adequate confinement nanny insurance coverage for them.
Confinement nanny insurance must be purchased before applying for the temporary work permit and coverage should be valid for the entire duration of the nanny’s stay.
Frequently Asked Questions
about Foreign Worker Medical Insurance (FWMI)
When should I purchase the FWMI Insurance?
FWMI Insurance should be purchased before applying for work permits or renewals. The insurance coverage must be active before foreign workers begin employment in Singapore. For existing workers, do ensure there isn’t any gaps in coverage between policy periods.
Can I change FWMI insurance providers?
Yes, you can change foreign worker medical insurance providers but do ensure the following:
- i. New policy meets all MOM requirements
- ii. Coverage transition without gaps
- iii. All existing claims are property transferred or settled
- iv. Update MOM with new policy details for work permit records
How long does Foreign Worker Medical Insurance coverage lasts?
FWMI insurance policies usually align with the work permit validity period, usually 1-2 years. Coverage must be continuously maintained throughout the worker’s employment period in Singapore.
Contact us for policy quotation, comparison and unbiased advice now!