Author Bio
NannyStreet is a MOM-licensed confinement nanny marketplace in Singapore. Founded in 2018, the company has around eight years of experience connecting parents-to-be directly with experienced confinement nannies. Recognised as Singapore’s first confinement nanny marketplace, NannyStreet has been featured by CNA Women, Vulcan Post, theAsianparent, Wonderwall.sg, AsiaOne and The New Paper. Its platform allows families to interview nannies, discuss job scopes, negotiate fees and securely pay deposits through PayNow or credit card.
Published Date
August 5, 2026
AI Summary
Choosing a trusted nanny match agency involves more than comparing prices or reading reviews. This article outlines six qualities to look for, including MOM licensing, transparent matching methods, replacement policies, post-placement support, and deposit terms. It also explains how to verify an agency’s credentials and ask the right questions before making a booking, helping parents make a more informed decision with confidence.
A trusted nanny match agency in Singapore should offer more than positive reviews or reassuring marketing claims. Parents should be able to verify how the agency operates, from its Ministry of Manpower (MOM) licensing status to its matching process, replacement policy, and post-placement support.
At NannyStreet, transparency is at the heart of how we support families. As a MOM-licensed nanny agency in Singapore, we believe parents should have clear information before making a commitment, from licensing status and deposit terms to the support available after placement.
Key Takeaways
- A valid MOM licence is one of the first things parents should verify when choosing a nanny match agency.
- A trusted agency should explain how it matches families with suitable nannies.
- Clear policies on replacements, deposits, and support help set expectations from the start.
- Ongoing communication after placement is just as important as the initial matching process.
- Asking the right questions makes it easier to compare nanny match agencies with confidence.
Why MOM Licensing Is the First Question, Not the Last
Choosing a confinement nanny is about more than finding someone available for your due date. It is also about choosing an agency that operates responsibly and transparently.
At NannyStreet, we encourage parents to evaluate agencies against what we call the Operator Standard, a set of six qualities that help families compare agencies beyond marketing claims.
The first quality is the most important: current MOM licensing.
While the remaining qualities help parents understand how an agency works, licensing provides the foundation. It confirms that the agency is authorised to operate under Singapore’s regulatory framework and gives families a starting point when assessing the agency’s credibility.
Once licensing has been verified, parents can then compare other important factors such as the agency’s matching process, replacement policies, communication, and ongoing support.
Quality One: Current MOM Licensing Standing
A MOM licence shows that the agency is authorised to operate as an employment agency in Singapore under the relevant regulatory framework. It also means the agency is expected to comply with the standards and requirements set by MOM.
Keep in mind that a MOM licence does not guarantee that every placement will be perfect. However, it does provide an additional level of accountability and gives families confidence that they are working with a recognised agency.
How to Check the MOM Employment Agencies Directory in Under 60 Seconds
Verifying an agency’s licence is straightforward.
Visit the MOM Employment Agencies Directory, search for the agency’s name or licence number, and check that its licence is current. The directory also shows basic information such as the agency’s licence status and contact details.
Taking a minute to verify this information can help you avoid working with an agency that is no longer licensed or operating under a different business entity.
What the Licence Number Means
Every licensed employment agency is issued a unique licence number by MOM. Rather than simply asking whether an agency is licensed, ask for its licence number and verify it yourself.
A reputable agency should be happy to provide this information. If you struggle to obtain it or receive unclear answers, it is worth asking additional questions before proceeding.
A MOM-Licensed Agency vs an Unlicensed Operator
Some businesses advertise nanny placement or matching services without clearly stating whether they are licensed employment agencies.
Working with a MOM-licensed nanny agency, such as NannyStreet, provides greater transparency because families can independently verify the agency’s status. It also gives parents confidence that they are engaging an agency operating within Singapore’s regulatory requirements rather than relying solely on marketing claims.
Quality Two: Bench Depth Behind the MOM License
Holding a MOM licence is only part of the picture. Parents should also consider whether the agency has enough suitable nannies available to provide genuine choice.
A trusted nanny match agency in Singapore should be able to recommend more than one suitable candidate whenever possible. This allows families to compare experience, language preferences, availability, and other factors before making a decision.
At NannyStreet, we believe matching should not simply be about assigning the first available nanny. Presenting several suitable profiles gives families the opportunity to find someone who is a better fit for their household and confinement needs.
If an agency can only offer a single option for every enquiry, it is worth asking whether there are other suitable candidates available or whether availability is driving the recommendation more than compatibility.
Quality Three: Matching Method Transparency
Finding the right confinement nanny involves more than checking availability. Every family has different routines, preferences, and expectations, which is why the matching process should be clear from the start.
A trusted nanny match agency should be able to explain how it recommends nannies to families. At NannyStreet, we consider factors such as the family’s preferred language, dietary practices, home layout, experience caring for older siblings, and any cultural or household preferences that may affect the confinement period.
There is no single formula that suits every family. However, an agency should be able to explain why a particular nanny has been recommended instead of simply saying she is available.
When speaking with an agency, don’t hesitate to ask how they determine a good match. A transparent answer can give you greater confidence that the recommendation has been made with your family’s needs in mind.
Families should also understand how their personal information will be collected and handled throughout the matching process in accordance with Singapore’s Personal Data Protection Act (PDPA).
Quality Four: A Replacement Guarantee That Gives Families Confidence
Even with careful matching, unexpected situations can arise. A nanny may become unwell, face a personal emergency, or discover that the placement is not the right fit for either party.
This is why it is important to understand an agency’s replacement policy before confirming your booking.
Look for clear written terms that explain:
- When a replacement may be arranged.
- What circumstances are covered.
- Whether additional charges apply.
- How quickly the agency will assist if a replacement is needed.
A replacement policy should protect both the family and the nanny by setting realistic expectations from the beginning.
At NannyStreet, we believe these terms should be explained clearly before any agreement is signed, allowing parents to understand the support available should unexpected circumstances arise.
Quality Five: Post-Placement Support
A nanny match agency’s role should not end once the nanny arrives at your home.
The first few days of confinement are often when new questions arise as everyone adjusts to a new routine. Ongoing communication gives families an opportunity to raise concerns early before they become bigger issues.
At NannyStreet, we continue supporting families throughout the placement with scheduled check-ins.
- Day 3: Ensures the nanny and family have settled in comfortably and addresses any early concerns.
- Day 14: Reviews how the arrangement is progressing and discusses any adjustments that may improve the experience.
- Day 28: Checks that the confinement period is concluding smoothly and helps prepare for the transition after the nanny’s engagement ends.
Regular follow-up helps ensure families continue to feel supported throughout the confinement journey rather than only during the booking process.
Quality Six: Deposit Safeguarding Transparency
A deposit is often required to secure a confinement nanny, so it is important to understand exactly how it will be handled before making payment.
A trusted nanny match agency should clearly explain:
- How much deposit is required.
- What the deposit covers.
- When it becomes refundable or non-refundable.
- What happens if there are changes to the booking.
These terms should be provided in writing so families know what to expect from the outset.
At NannyStreet, we believe deposit policies should be transparent and easy to understand. Before making a deposit, ask for the agency’s terms in writing and review the cancellation policy, refund terms, and booking conditions carefully. Taking the time to understand these conditions before making payment can help you make a more informed decision, in line with Singapore’s consumer protection principles.
With these six qualities in mind, the next step is knowing how to ask about them.
The Question Order That Helps You Compare Agencies Confidently
When comparing nanny match agencies, asking the right questions in the right order can save you time.
We recommend starting with these six questions:
- Are you currently a MOM-licensed nanny agency?
- How do you match families with suitable nannies?
- How many nanny profiles can you recommend for my due date?
- What is your replacement policy if the arrangement does not work out?
- What support do you provide after the nanny starts work?
- How are deposits handled if there are changes to my booking?
An agency should be able to answer each question clearly and confidently. If the responses are vague or difficult to obtain, it may be worth comparing other agencies before making a decision.
Qualities That Sound Impressive but May Not Tell the Whole Story
When researching agencies, you’ll often come across marketing claims designed to build confidence. While some are helpful, others should be viewed alongside more meaningful indicators.
For example, an agency may highlight:
- Awards or badges without explaining who issued them.
- A large roster of nannies without explaining how matching decisions are made.
- Many years in business without clarifying whether it has operated continuously under the same licence.
These points are not necessarily negative, but they should not be the only reasons for choosing an agency.
Instead, focus on factors you can verify, such as licensing status, transparent policies, communication, and the level of support provided throughout the placement.
How to Verify Everything in This Article Yourself
You do not have to rely solely on an agency’s website when making your decision. Taking a few simple steps can help you compare agencies with greater confidence.
Before confirming a booking:
- Verify the agency’s licence through the MOM Employment Agencies Directory.
- Ask for the agency’s licence number if it is not clearly displayed.
- Request written information about replacement policies and deposit terms.
- Ask how the agency matches families with suitable nannies.
- Clarify what support is available after the nanny begins work.
Choosing a confinement nanny is an important decision, and asking these questions early can help you better understand how each agency operates.
At NannyStreet, we welcome these conversations because we believe informed parents are better equipped to choose the support that best suits their family’s needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I verify an agency is currently MOM licensed in 2026?
You can verify an agency’s licensing status by searching for its name or licence number on the Ministry of Manpower’s Employment Agencies Directory. The directory shows whether the agency holds a current licence and provides basic business information to help you confirm its status before making a booking.
Does MOM licensing guarantee a good confinement nanny match?
No. A MOM licence confirms that an agency is authorised to operate as an employment agency in Singapore, but it does not guarantee that every nanny will be the right fit for every family. Factors such as the agency’s matching process, communication, and post-placement support also contribute to a successful placement.
What happens if a MOM-licensed nanny match agency loses its licence during my confinement period?
This is uncommon, but if it happens, contact the agency immediately to understand how your placement will be managed. You can also verify the agency’s current status through the MOM Employment Agencies Directory or reach out to MOM directly at 6438 5122 for guidance on how the change may affect your existing arrangement.
Are all confinement nanny agencies in Singapore required to hold a MOM licence?
If an agency is carrying out employment agency activities covered under Singapore’s regulations, it should hold the appropriate MOM licence. If you are unsure, it is always worth verifying the agency’s status through the official MOM directory before proceeding.
Does having more available nannies mean an agency is better?
Not necessarily. A larger pool of nannies can provide more options, but the quality of the matching process is equally important. A trusted agency should recommend nannies based on your family’s needs, preferences, and household circumstances, rather than simply assigning the first available caregiver.
Can a nanny match agency operate legally in Singapore without MOM licensing?
Before engaging any agency, check whether the services it provides require a MOM employment agency licence. Verifying the agency’s status through the official directory is one of the simplest ways to ensure you are working with a recognised provider.