Maid Visa Cost Dubai: Everything You Need to Know in 2024

Sharif Badell

12 months ago · Updated 11 months ago

Did you know that Dubai's population surged by over 100,000 in 2023 alone? With this rapid growth comes an increasing demand for domestic help. With the growing number of residents in Dubai, hiring domestic help has become increasingly common.

However, one of the first factors you need to consider is the maid visa cost in Dubai. This article will provide a complete breakdown of the costs associated with obtaining and renewing a maid visa in Dubai, as well as the requirements and steps you need to follow to comply with local laws.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the intricacies of the maid visa process, covering:

Eligibility requirements: Who can sponsor a maid and what criteria must your maid meet?
Required documents: What paperwork will you need to gather for a successful application?
Application process: A step-by-step walkthrough to make the process as smooth as possible.
Costs involved: A breakdown of the fees associated with obtaining a maid visa.
Rights and responsibilities: Understanding the legal framework governing domestic employment in Dubai.

Whether you're a new resident or a seasoned expat, this guide will equip you with the knowledge you need to navigate the maid visa process obtaining a maid visa in Dubai, confidently and legally.

What is a Maid Visa Dubai?

So, you're thinking about hiring a maid in Dubai? Whether you're a new resident settling into the city's vibrant lifestyle or a long-time expat juggling a busy schedule, having a helping hand at home can be a game-changer.

But before you start interviewing candidates, there's one crucial thing you need to understand: the maid visa.

What's a maid visa, you ask? Simply put, it's a special permit that allows you, as a Dubai resident, to legally sponsor someone from another country to work in your home. This could be a housekeeper, nanny, cook, gardener – you name it!

Why does it matter? Well, it's not just about following the rules (although that's important!). A maid visa ensures:

Your maid can legally work in Dubai: It's a win-win situation for both of you.
You're both protected: The visa sets out the rights and responsibilities for both you and your employee.
Peace of mind: The visa process includes background and health checks.

The nitty-gritty:

Validity: Maid visas are usually valid for two years, but you'll need to renew them annually.
Eligibility: There are certain requirements you'll need to meet as a sponsor.
Process: Getting a maid visa involves a few steps and some paperwork.

A maid visa, also known as a housemaid or nanny visa, allows UAE residents to sponsor domestic workers. It's valid for two years and requires annual renewal.

Don't worry, we've got you covered! In this guide, we'll break down everything you need to know about maid visas in Dubai, so you can confidently navigate the process and find the perfect household helper for your needs.

How Much Does a Maid Visa Cost in Dubai?

The maid visa cost in Dubai ranges between AED 14,000 to AED 18,000 (approximately $3,780 to $4,860 USD or €3,500 to €4,500).

This includes various fees for the application, typing center services, health insurance, and other administrative costs, along with a refundable deposit.

Keep in mind that these are estimated costs based on the exchange rates as of July 2024 and the actual amount you pay may vary slightly.

What are the requirements for a Maid Visa? Eligibility Criteria for Essential Checklist

Before you welcome a new helper into your home, it's crucial to make sure you're both eligible for the maid visa process.

Here's a breakdown of the requirements:

Sponsor/Employer:

Residency: You need a valid UAE residence visa. This includes Emirati nationals, as well as foreigners with Green visas or Business visas.
Income: Your monthly income should be at least AED 6,000, or AED 5,000 if your employer provides your accommodation. Pro tip: While this is the legal minimum, many sponsors find it easier to find and retain qualified maids by offering a higher salary.
Financial stability: You'll need to prove you have a stable income, usually through employment records or business financial statements.
Accommodation: You must have a place for your maid to live, with a separate room in a residence that has at least two bedrooms.

Maid/Domestic Worker:

Nationality: Your maid must be a citizen of a country that has a Government-to-Government (G2G) agreement with Dubai. These include Bangladesh, India, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Sri Lanka.
Minimum Salary: The minimum salary you'll need to pay your maid depends on their nationality. Insider tip: Research typical salary ranges for maids from different countries to ensure you're offering a competitive wage.
Age: There are also age restrictions for maids, depending on their nationality.

Documents You'll Need:

Completed GDRFAD application form
Sponsor's passport and visa copies
Attested marriage certificate (if applicable)
Attested Ejari or lease agreement (showing a minimum two-bedroom apartment)
Emirates ID and recent bank statements
Maid's passport and photographs
No-objection document from the maid's country of residence

Absolutely! Here's a table outlining the documents required for a maid visa application in Dubai:

Document Type	Document Name	Notes
General	Completed GDRFAD application form (with authorized center stamp)
Sponsor/Employer Documents	Copy of passport (self and spouse)
	Copy of attested marriage certificate	If applicable
	Attested copy of Resident's Ejari or lease agreement (min. 2 bedrooms)
	Emirates ID
	Bank statements for the recent 3-6 months
	Labor contract from own employer
	Salary certificate from own employer
	Copy of residence visa
Maid/Domestic Worker Documents	Copy of maid's passport
	Three photographs
	No-objection document from the country of residence	This confirms the maid's ability to leave their home country for employment.

Important Note: This is a general overview. Specific requirements may vary, so always confirm with the General Directorate of Residency and Foreign Affairs – Dubai (GDRFAD) for the most up-to-date information.

Key Improvements:

Concise and Clear: Streamlined the language for better readability.
Additional Insights: Added "Pro Tip" and "Insider Tip" sections to provide valuable advice.
Combined Information: Merged relevant information from both sources for a comprehensive overview.
Focus on Practicality: Emphasized the importance of understanding and meeting the eligibility criteria before starting the application process.

Let me know if you'd like any further adjustments or have more sections you'd like me to refine!

How to Apply to get Maid Visa in Dubai

Entry Permit

To begin the process, you need to apply for an entry permit for your domestic worker. This permit is only payable for expats and requires your International Bank Account Number (IBAN) for deposit refund purposes. After submitting the application, you will receive a notification of approval via SMS, and the employment visa will be sent via email from the Ministry of Interior (MOI) and General Directorate for Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA).

Change of Status

Once you have received the entry permit, you need to apply for a change of status. This step is crucial, as it allows your domestic worker to transition from a visit or cancelled visa status to a residence visa. The validity of this application is up to 60 days, and you will receive a notification via email from MOI/GDRFA. It is essential to note that your domestic worker cannot leave the country until the residence visa has been stamped. In case of emergency, the entry permit application can be cancelled to allow the worker to leave the country.

Medical Fitness Test

As per UAE law, all domestic and household workers must undergo a medical fitness test before a residence visa is issued. The medical examination must be completed in approved government health centers. The medical fitness certificate is valid for 90 days only.

Get Emirates ID

The Emirates ID application is a mandatory step in the process. Biometrics must be completed for new applicants, and the validity of the application varies based on the individual's nationality. Local (Emirati) applicants have a two-year validity, while expats have a one-year validity. GCC nationals have a two-year validity. The medical fitness certificate is valid for 90 days only.

Medical Insurance

All domestic and household workers require medical insurance. The policy is issued after the labour contract is signed, and the medical certificate and Emirates ID are submitted.

Employment Contract

The employment contract is a crucial document that outlines the terms and conditions of employment. The new Domestic Workers Law (10/2017) accepts immigration employment contracts for the years 2017 and 2018. MOHRE employment contracts must be printed for new visa applications or if the sponsor holds an old contract.

Residency Visa Application

The final step in the process is the residency visa application. Once the application is approved, the residence visa stamping/sticker should be available on your worker's passport. The validity of the residence visa varies based on the individual's nationality, with local (Emirati) applicants having a two-year validity, expats having a one-year validity, and GCC nationals having a two-year validity.

Renewal of Maid Visa in UAE

For the renewal of a maid visa in Dubai, the costs include medical tests and renewing the employment contract.

To renew a maid visa in the UAE, you need to follow these steps:

Medical Fitness Test: Ensure your maid is fit to work by undergoing a medical fitness test.
Emirates ID: Provide your maid's Emirates ID.
Health Insurance Certificate: Obtain a health insurance certificate.
Employment Contract: Submit a copy of the employment contract.
Residency Visa Application: Submit the residency visa application along with the required documents.

Conclusion

Obtaining a maid visa in the UAE is a straightforward process that involves several steps.

By following these steps and providing the required documents, you can ensure a smooth and efficient process. It is essential to note that the cost and requirements may vary based on the channel used to obtain the visa.

For more information and guidance, you can consult the official Tadbeer Visa platform or other authorized channels.

References:

General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA): This is the primary government body responsible for visa and residency matters in Dubai. Their website provides comprehensive information on visa requirements, application processes, and other relevant procedures. You can find it here: https://www.gdrfad.gov.ae/en
Tadbeer Visa: This is the official platform dedicated to facilitating the hiring of domestic workers in the UAE. It offers a wealth of resources for both employers and domestic workers, including information on the visa process, rights and responsibilities, and a platform for connecting employers with potential employees. You can visit their website here: https://www.tadbeer.ae/

Other Helpful Resources:

Amer Center: Amer centers are government-authorized service providers that can assist with visa applications and other related services.
Embassies of Relevant Countries: The embassies of the countries from which you can hire domestic workers (e.g., Philippines, India, Indonesia) can provide information on specific requirements and procedures.
Legal Firms Specializing in Immigration Law: If you have complex questions or need personalized assistance, consulting our legal expert can be beneficial.

Sharif Badell

I have had 10 years of experience helping people validate their Emirates ID. The Emirates ID is a mandatory identification document for all citizens and residents of the UAE. It not only serves as a proof of identity, but it also enables individuals to access various government services, including health insurance and financial services. Hence, it’s essential to keep the Emirates ID updated and valid.Validation of the Emirates ID involves checking the validity of the information on the card and ensuring that it’s up to date. The process can be done online or through authorized centers, and it’s quick and straightforward.For visitors and external workers in the UAE, the process of obtaining an Emirates ID may differ. Visitors can apply for a temporary ID, which is valid for a specific duration and can be renewed. On the other hand, external workers must obtain a residency visa and an Emirates ID card, which is linked to their visa.My experience has taught me that there are some simple steps that visitors and external workers can take to ensure a smooth validation process:Keep personal information updated;Ensure that the documents required are valid and up to date;Carry relevant identification documents when visiting an authorized center.Finally, regular updates of the Emirates ID can go a long way in helping individuals access government services without any hassles. The validation process is quick and straightforward, and ensuring that documents are in order can make the process hassle free. I hope this advice helps visitors and external workers in the UAE to validate their Emirates ID with ease.