Domestic Worker Visa in UAE

Complete Guide to Domestic Worker Visa in the UAE:

Types of Domestic Worker Visas Available

• Domestic Worker Visa (General): For household staff such as maids, nannies, drivers, cooks, and cleaners.
• Nanny Visa: Specifically for child caregivers.
• Driver Visa: For domestic drivers employed by families.
• Housemaid Visa: For housekeeping staff.

(All fall under the Domestic Worker Visa category with slight employment term variations.)

Sponsorship Eligibility Requirements

• Sponsor must be a UAE national, GCC citizen, or expatriate resident with a valid UAE residence visa.
• Minimum combined household income of AED 25,000 per month to sponsor a domestic worker legally.
• Adequate accommodation must be provided for the worker.
• Sponsor must have no prior visa or labor violations.

Note: If your salary is below AED 25,000, you can still employ a domestic worker through a Tadbeer center, which acts as the official sponsor.

Who Can Be Sponsored?

• Domestic workers such as maids, nannies, drivers, cooks, gardeners, and babysitters.
• Workers must be recruited through authorized Tadbeer centers or licensed recruitment agencies.
• Domestic workers must pass mandatory medical fitness tests.

Step-by-Step Visa Application Process

Step 1: Verify Eligibility

• Confirm your eligibility based on residency status and salary requirements.

Step 2: Choose Your Domestic Worker

• Hire through licensed agencies or Tadbeer centers, verifying background and health.

Step 3: Gather Required Documents

• Passport copies of sponsor and worker.
• Valid UAE residence visa and Emirates ID of sponsor.
• Salary certificate or proof of income.
• Employment contract issued via MOHRE or Tadbeer center.
• Passport-sized photos of the worker.
• Medical fitness certificate for the worker.
• Proof of accommodation (tenancy contract, utility bills).
• Marriage certificate and spouse’s visa if applicable.

Step 4: Submit Application

• Apply through a Tadbeer center or MOHRE online portal, submitting all documents.

Step 5: Pay Fees

• Pay visa processing, medical fitness, Emirates ID, and Tadbeer service fees as applicable.

Step 6: Medical Fitness Test

• Domestic worker undergoes medical testing at an authorized health center.

Step 7: Emirates ID Registration

• Apply for the worker’s Emirates ID; the worker may attend a biometrics appointment.

Step 8: Visa Stamping

• Once approved, the worker’s visa is stamped in their passport, granting legal residency.

Step 9: Employment Contract Signing & Orientation

• Sign the official employment contract. Tadbeer centers may provide orientation on rights and responsibilities.

Step 10: Renewal and Cancellation

• The visa is valid for 2 years; renew before expiry or cancel following legal procedures if the contract ends.

Comparison: Tadbeer Center Sponsorship vs. Private Sponsorship

Key Takeaways:

• Cost Efficiency: Tadbeer offers a more cost-effective solution with lower total cost and no renewal fees.
• Comprehensive Services: Tadbeer includes medical insurance, Emirates ID, salary protection, and full PRO services, providing a hassle-free experience.
• Legal Protection: Tadbeer ensures full legal protection with a MOHRE contract and a 30-day settling-in program.
• Convenience: Private sponsorship may involve multiple visits and additional recruitment fees, making Tadbeer a more convenient option.

Choose the option that best fits your needs. For a smooth, all-inclusive process, Tadbeer Center sponsorship is often preferred by many employers.

Accommodation Requirements

• Provide a private room within your residence.
• Access to necessary facilities like bathroom and kitchen.
• Sufficient living space for comfort and privacy.

Additional Important Notes

• If Salary Below AED 25,000: Use Tadbeer centers to employ domestic workers without meeting salary criteria; the center sponsors the worker officially.
• Golden Visa Holders: May have specific rules; verify with authorities.
• Always ensure compliance with UAE Domestic Labour Law to protect worker rights and avoid penalties.