How to Apply for a Maid or Nanny Visa in the UAE (Dubai): 2025 Step-by-Step Guide

Dubai families rely on trusted help at home, but the visa process can feel intimidating without a clear plan. This guide walks you through the essentials—from eligibility and documents to timelines, fees, and post-approval steps—so you can sponsor confidently and stay compliant. Wherever bullets made things feel too list-like, you’ll now find concise explanations, with key details kept scannable.

What is a UAE Domestic Worker Visa?

A domestic worker visa is a residence permit that allows a foreign national to work in a private household. Typical roles include household support and caregiving. The category is governed by the UAE Domestic Workers Law (Federal Law No. 10 of 2017). Residency services are handled through Dubai’s GDRFA, while employment contracts and worker protections fall under MOHRE.

Common roles include:

• Maid/housekeeper
• Nanny/babysitter
• Cook
• Private driver
• Gardener
• Caregiver

Useful references:

• Domestic workers overview on UAE Government Portal
• Visa basics and residency information

2025 Updates You Should Know (Dubai-Focused)

In 2025, the Emirates ID serves as the primary proof of residency, effectively replacing the old residence sticker in most cases. Keep the Emirates ID with you and ensure details are correct upon delivery. Applications are increasingly digital-first, relying on ICP Smart Services for Emirates ID and visa workflows, and GDRFA Dubai for local residency services. AMER service centers can prepare and submit applications on your behalf, which can reduce errors and delays.

Expect biometrics for Emirates ID soon after application—often within about 10 days—so monitor notifications and attend promptly. You’ll also need a medical fitness test at a DHA-approved center, with standard and VIP speeds available. Given that fees and procedures can change, it’s smart to verify specifics just before you apply.

Quick links:

• Emirates ID overview
• ICP Smart Services
• GDRFA Dubai
• AMER Dubai
• DHA medical fitness

Who Can Sponsor a Maid/Nanny in Dubai?

Eligibility depends on your status and household circumstances. UAE nationals, GCC nationals, and UAE residents holding valid residence visas can generally sponsor, provided they meet income thresholds set at emirate level. You’ll typically need proof of suitable accommodation (Ejari/tenancy and utility bill) and a clean compliance history with no unresolved fines.

Families are the typical sponsors; single males or shared accommodation cases may be subject to extra conditions. Domestic workers are commonly accepted between ages 18–60, although nationality-specific rules may apply. When in doubt, confirm any age or nationality conditions with GDRFA Dubai or a licensed AMER/Tadbeer center before initiating the process.

Step-by-Step: Apply for a Maid/Nanny Visa (With Timelines)

Most complete their applications within 2–4 weeks when documents are ready. Here’s a streamlined, narrative walkthrough of each phase:

1) Open or verify your sponsor file
Ensure your sponsor profile is active with GDRFA/ICP. First-time sponsors may need to open a file. You can complete this online or delegate to an AMER center. Typical time: about 1 business day after submission.

2) Secure the entry permit or process a status change
If your worker is outside the UAE, apply for an entry permit to bring them in. If already inside (e.g., on a visit or recently cancelled visa), process a status change instead. Some expatriate sponsors are asked for a refundable deposit (often AED 2,000), depending on case specifics. Typical time: 2–5 business days.

3) Worker entry or in-country status update
If outside the UAE, the worker travels to Dubai with the entry permit. If already inside, their status updates without exit. Travel is typically restricted until residency is granted, so avoid trips mid-process.

4) Complete the medical fitness test (Dubai)
Book a DHA-approved medical fitness center and bring required IDs and any requested photos. The assessment includes blood tests and a chest X-ray for communicable diseases. Results feed directly into your residency application. Typical time: 2–5 working days (VIP options can be 24–48 hours).

5) Apply for Emirates ID and attend biometrics
Submit the Emirates ID application via ICP or through a typing/AMER center. The worker will receive a biometrics appointment—attend promptly to avoid delays. Typical time after biometrics: 5–10 working days, depending on service speed.

6) Issue and sign the domestic worker contract (MOHRE)
Use the standard MOHRE domestic worker contract format. Clearly define job title, salary, weekly rest day(s), accommodation, food or allowance, annual leave, ticket policy, and other lawful terms. Where available, complete and sign electronically to keep things moving.

7) Arrange medical insurance
Dubai requires health insurance for domestic workers. Choose a plan that meets minimum requirements and suits the worker’s needs. Activate the policy before final residency issuance to avoid processing gaps.

8) Finalize residency issuance (GDRFA/ICP)
Residency is issued digitally, with the Emirates ID serving as the official proof. Check ICP/GDRFA for e-approvals and confirm Emirates ID delivery details. Typical validity: expatriate sponsors often 1 year; UAE and GCC nationals often 2 years (subject to current rules).

Required Documents (Sponsor & Worker) While the lists below remain in bullet form for clarity, the notes explain how to avoid common document pitfalls. Always use clear, color scans and ensure names and dates match across all documents.

Sponsor (Dubai)

• Passport copy (valid)
• Emirates ID copy (front and back)
• UAE residence visa page (for expatriate sponsors)
• Salary certificate or labour contract (private sector), or NOC/letter if applicable
• Recent bank statements (if requested)
• Ejari/tenancy contract and latest DEWA bill (or equivalent)
• Marriage certificate (if needed; attested if issued abroad)
• Passport-size photos per current spec

Worker

• Passport valid at least 6 months
• Passport-size photos (white background; current spec)
• Entry permit (if outside) or current UAE status page (if inside)
• Medical fitness certificate (after testing)
• Signed MOHRE domestic worker contract
• Emirates ID application acknowledgment (after submission)
• Education/experience letters (only if specifically requested)
• Police or other clearances (if requested based on nationality/role)

Document notes:

• Foreign-issued civil documents often require multi-stage attestation (home country, UAE mission, MOFA UAE). Build in extra time and cost.
• Double-check that names and spellings match exactly across all records to avoid rework.

Fees and Processing Time (Realistic Ranges) Costs vary by urgency, validity, nationality, and service channel. The ranges below reflect typical Dubai cases and are presented in a quick-reference format, followed by a short explanation.

Government and service fees (indicative)

• Entry permit: AED 250–600
• Status change (if inside UAE): AED 500–800
• Residency issuance: AED 200–600 (varies by validity)
• Emirates ID: AED 170–370 per year (plus any service charges)
• Medical fitness test: AED 320–750 (standard vs. VIP)
• Medical insurance (annual): AED 600–2,000+ (coverage-dependent)
• Typing/AMER service charges: AED 100–300 per application
• Refundable deposit (if applicable): often AED 2,000

Typical timeframes

• Entry permit approval: 2–5 business days
• Medical fitness completion: 1–5 business days (VIP often 24–48 hours)
• Emirates ID after biometrics: 5–10 business days
• Overall end-to-end: about 2–4 weeks with documents ready

Before you pay or apply, confirm current fees and service timelines on:

• ICP Smart Services
• GDRFA Dubai
• MOHRE Domestic Workers

Medical Fitness & Emirates ID: What to Expect

Plan your bookings early and keep originals and copies handy. The DHA medical fitness exam includes bloodwork and a chest X-ray to screen for communicable diseases; the results integrate with your residency process. After you submit the Emirates ID application, you’ll receive a biometrics prompt—missing it can push your timeline back. Upon approval, Emirates ID is couriered; track delivery in ICP to avoid missed drop-offs.

Quick prep checklist:

• Book a DHA-approved medical fitness center time slot
• Bring passports, entry/status documents, and required photos
• Consider VIP service if timelines are tight
• Track Emirates ID and attend biometrics promptly

Useful links:

• DHA medical fitness info
• ICP Smart Services (ID and residency)

Worker Rights & Sponsor Duties (Key UAE Rules)

Domestic workers are protected by specific laws and must have a clear, written contract. Sponsors are responsible for paying wages on time and ensuring safe, humane working conditions, including rest time and annual leave. Keep traceable records of salary payments and avoid retaining passports, which must remain with the worker. If issues arise, workers have the right to seek help through official channels.

Core protections include:

• Written contract specifying salary, duties, weekly rest day, leave, and ticket policy
• Timely, full wage payment (keep bank transfer proofs/receipts)
• At least one paid weekly rest day and daily rest hours
• 30 days of paid annual leave after one year (prorated before that)
• Safe work environment and access to medical care
• No retention of passport or personal documents
• End-of-service benefits in line with law
• Right to file complaints through official channels

Learn more:

• UAE Government – Domestic Workers
• MOHRE Domestic Workers

Hiring Options in Dubai: Tadbeer vs. Direct vs. Transfer

Tadbeer centers offer a streamlined, end-to-end service under MOHRE, handling recruitment, screening, contracts, medicals, and visa steps in one place. This is a preferred route for first-time sponsors or those who want minimal administrative effort. Package models may cover live-in or live-out arrangements, with costs reflecting the level of service and support.

Learn more: https://u.ae/en/information-and-services/visa-and-emirates-id/domestic-workers/tadbeer

Direct hire from abroad works best if you’ve already identified a candidate and prefer to manage steps yourself (or through an AMER center). You’ll coordinate the entry permit, medical fitness, Emirates ID, and residency issuance, keeping an eye on sequencing to avoid delays.

Transfer within the UAE is an option when hiring a worker already in the country. With consent from all parties and MOHRE/GDRFA approvals, sponsorship can move from the current sponsor to you. Before transfer, settle outstanding dues with the current sponsor, ensure a clean cancellation or transfer record, and sign a new contract listing you as the sponsor.

Renewals, Cancellation, and Transfers Renewal Start about 30 days before expiry to avoid fines and service gaps. Generally, you’ll repeat core steps: a new medical fitness test, Emirates ID renewal, contract renewal if required, and residency renewal via ICP/GDRFA. With documents in order, renewals typically complete in 5–10 working days depending on service speeds.

Cancellation Before cancelling, pay any outstanding wages and end-of-service benefits, and book the worker’s exit ticket if they’re returning home. Submit cancellation through ICP/GDRFA (AMER can assist), then ensure exit within the grace period to prevent overstays. Keep the cancellation confirmation for your records.

Transfer (sponsor-to-sponsor) All parties must sign the prescribed forms. The new sponsor completes any required medicals, updates Emirates ID, and finalizes the residency transfer. If a deposit was placed earlier, confirm refund or forfeiture rules with the relevant authority.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

• Incomplete documents: Cross-check names, spellings, and dates; use the checklists above to prevent rejections and resubmissions.
• Late biometrics: Emirates ID scheduling is time-sensitive—missing your slot can reset timelines.
• Insurance gaps: Activate health insurance before residency issuance so approvals don’t stall.
• Travel during processing: Avoid trips until residency is finalized; otherwise you may need fresh permits.
• Missed renewal window: Set reminders 45 and 30 days before expiry to avoid penalties.
• Passport retention: Do not hold the worker’s passport; keep secure copies instead.

FAQs

How long does the maid/nanny visa take in Dubai?

Most straightforward applications finish in 2–4 weeks once documents are ready, assuming prompt attendance for medicals and biometrics.

Can I sponsor someone already in Dubai on a visit visa?

Yes—typically via an in-country status change, followed by the standard steps to residency issuance.

Do I need to pay a deposit?

Many expatriate sponsors are asked for a refundable security deposit (often AED 2,000), though this varies by case and nationality.

Can a single person sponsor a maid?

This can be case-dependent in Dubai. Families are the typical sponsors; check with GDRFA Dubai or AMER for current criteria.

What is the usual visa validity?

Frequently 1 year for expatriate sponsors and 2 years for UAE/GCC nationals, subject to current rules at the time of issuance.

What about salary range?

Pay depends on experience and duties. Always pay on time via traceable methods and retain receipts.

Is health insurance mandatory?

Yes, in Dubai. Choose a plan suited to domestic worker needs and activate it before final residency issuance.

What if contract terms change?

Update the contract through MOHRE and keep a freshly signed copy for both parties.

Can I hire part-time privately?

Private sponsorship covers full-time arrangements. For part-time or hourly help, use licensed agencies in Dubai.

Where can I get help typing and submitting?

AMER centers in Dubai can type and submit GDRFA requests; ICP Smart Services is also available online.

Key Takeaways

• Start early: Give yourself 2–4 weeks and book medicals and biometrics promptly.
• Get the documents right: Matching names/dates and proper attestations save time.
• Insure before residency: Keep coverage active to avoid last-minute blocks.
• Use official portals: Check the latest rules and fees before you apply.
• Consider support: AMER and Tadbeer can simplify steps, especially for first-time sponsors.

If you’d like hands-on help, consider working with a licensed center or a professional service provider such as Imdad HR.