Domestic Worker Visas
Domestic Workers Residency
Who Can Sponsor a Domestic Worker in the UAE
A domestic worker visa is a residence permit for someone employed in a private household rather than by a company. It covers recognised domestic worker categories, including maids, nannies, cooks, drivers, gardeners, and private caregivers.
Domestic worker employment is regulated by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE), with residence procedures handled through the relevant immigration authorities.
Not every UAE resident can sponsor a domestic worker. Eligibility generally depends on three factors:
- Residency. Expatriate sponsors must hold a valid UAE residence permit. Visit visa holders cannot directly sponsor a domestic worker.
- Income. Sponsors must meet the applicable income requirements. These may differ according to nationality, household circumstances, and the sponsorship arrangement.
- Accommodation. Sponsors must provide suitable accommodation that meets the applicable requirements for domestic workers.
If you do not qualify for direct sponsorship, a MOHRE-licensed domestic worker service centre may offer an alternative arrangement, subject to its terms and eligibility conditions.
Domestic workers must be at least 18 years old. Additional sponsorship conditions may apply depending on the applicant’s circumstances.
SkyPro can help you review the available sponsorship options and identify the documents required before starting the application.
What We Offer
Eligibility Assessment
We review your residency status, income, and accommodation against the applicable MOHRE requirements to help determine whether direct sponsorship or a licensed domestic worker service centre is the appropriate option.
Documentation and Contract
We assist with the required employment contract, entry permit application, and supporting documents, in accordance with the applicable domestic worker employment regulations.
Medical Fitness Test and Emirates ID
We coordinate the required medical fitness examination, Emirates ID application, biometrics appointment, and residence visa procedures, where applicable.
Insurance, Salary Compliance and Renewal
We guide sponsors through the applicable health insurance and salary payment requirements and assist with residence visa renewals and related documentation.
Domestic Worker Visa Cost in the UAE
The cost of sponsoring a domestic worker in the UAE depends on the sponsorship arrangement, visa duration, applicable government fees, and insurance requirements.
Direct sponsorship and packages offered by MOHRE-licensed domestic worker service centres have different cost structures. It is important to compare what each option includes before applying.
| Cost Component | Cost | Notes |
| Entry permit | Based on current government fees | Fees depend on the application type and relevant authority |
| Medical fitness test | Based on the applicable examination fees | Required as part of the residence visa process |
| Emirates ID | Based on current ICP fees | Depends on the applicable validity period |
| Residence permit processing | Based on current immigration fees | Charges depend on the visa category and duration |
| Domestic worker insurance or applicable financial guarantee | Varies by arrangement | Requirements depend on the sponsorship route and applicable regulations |
| MOHRE permit and employment contract | Based on current MOHRE fees | Domestic worker procedures have their own requirements |
| Direct sponsorship package | Quoted according to eligibility and requirements | May include government processing, medical fitness, Emirates ID, and other applicable charges |
| Licensed service centre package | Depends on the selected package | Confirm the sponsorship arrangement and included services |
| Monthly domestic worker service package | Depends on the provider and package | May include the worker’s salary and certain administrative services |
The worker’s salary and ongoing employment obligations should be considered separately from the initial visa processing costs, unless they are expressly included in the selected service package.
Sponsors should also budget for accommodation, healthcare, and other employment benefits required under the applicable regulations.
SkyPro can help you review the available sponsorship arrangements and provide a breakdown of the applicable government and service charges before proceeding.
Conclusion
Why Choose Skypro for Domestic Worker Visas
- Eligibility checked before you apply. We review your residency status, income, and accommodation against the applicable sponsorship requirements to help identify potential issues before submission.
- Direct sponsorship or licensed service centre options. We help you compare the available arrangements, including eligibility, costs, and services covered, so you can choose the option that suits your household.
- Employment contract and documents reviewed. We assist with preparing the required employment contract and supporting documents in accordance with the applicable MOHRE procedures.
- Salary and insurance requirements explained. We guide you through the applicable salary payment, health insurance, and employment compliance requirements for your sponsorship arrangement.
- Residence visa renewal assistance. We help you review the documents and procedures required to renew a domestic worker's residence visa and Emirates ID before expiry.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible to sponsor a domestic worker in the UAE?
UAE nationals and eligible expatriate residents can sponsor domestic workers, subject to the applicable MOHRE requirements.
For expatriate sponsors, eligibility generally depends on valid UAE residency, sufficient income, and suitable accommodation. The specific requirements may vary according to the sponsor’s circumstances and the sponsorship arrangement.
If direct sponsorship is not available, a MOHRE-licensed domestic worker service centre may offer an alternative, subject to its eligibility criteria.
How much does a domestic worker visa cost?
The cost depends on the sponsorship route, visa duration, government charges, insurance requirements, and services included.
Direct sponsorship and licensed service centre packages have different pricing structures. Some service centres also offer monthly packages that may include the worker’s salary and administrative services.
SkyPro can help you review the applicable charges and understand what is included before proceeding.
What documents are required?
Sponsors generally need a passport copy, Emirates ID, valid residence permit where applicable, proof of income, and accommodation documents. Additional documents, such as a marriage certificate, may be required depending on the application.
The domestic worker generally needs a valid passport, passport photographs, and the required employment documentation. Medical fitness and Emirates ID procedures are completed as part of the applicable residence process.
Additional documents or attestations may be requested based on the worker’s nationality and the relevant authority’s requirements.
Can the visa be renewed, and how often?
Yes. Domestic worker residence visas can generally be renewed, provided the employment continues and the sponsor meets the applicable requirements.
The validity period and renewal requirements depend on the sponsorship category and current regulations. Renewal may involve medical fitness, insurance, employment documentation, and Emirates ID procedures.
It is advisable to begin the renewal process before the existing residence permit expires to avoid potential fines or interruptions.
