Maid Visa in Dubai: Requirements & Conditions

Maid Visa in Dubai is in high demand, with domestic worker visa applications rising by 137.5% between May and July 2024. Want a cleaner home, more free time, and less stress but not sure where to start? Wondering if you meet the rules or what documents you’ll need? This article gives you clear answers in 7 simple steps to apply legally and easily.

Table of contents What is a maid visa for Dubai? Why a Maid Transforms Your Dubai Life: More Time, Less Stress.  Who Is Eligible to Apply for a Maid Visa in Dubai? 7 Types of People Who Meet the Rules 7 Clear Conditions Every Domestic Worker Must Meet Your Essential Documents for a Dubai Maid Visa: A Full Checklist for Sponsor and Domestic Worker How to Apply for a Housemaid Visa in the UAE: Your Stress-Free Guide What Are the Main Responsibilities of a Sponsor of a Maid Visa in Dubai? How Long Does It Usually Take to Process a Maid Visa in Dubai? Maid Visa Dubai 2025 Cost Guide: All Fees Included How can Business Link assist with the maid visa process in Dubai? Summary. FAQ’s.

What is a maid visa for Dubai?

It’s a legal permit that lets you hire and sponsor a domestic helper. The helper can live and work in your home.

To apply, you must meet salary and housing rules. Also, the maid must be 18–60 years old and not related to you.

Since rules change often, follow the latest steps. With the right documents, approval is simple. Moreover, this visa enables families to access trusted legal assistance.

1. Cost Savings: One full-time maid replaces multiple part-timers, saving money.
2. Custom Duties: You decide what tasks the maid handles—cleaning, cooking, or care.

7 steps to Sponsor a Maid Visa in Dubai

1. Confirm eligibility: income, housing, family size.
2. Select a maid from approved nationalities.
3. Submit documents to Dubai’s GDRFA or authorized centers.
4. Complete medical fitness tests for the maid.
5. Register for the Emirates ID.
6. Receive a visa and a residency permit.
7. Renew before expiry to keep legal status.

Why This Works in Dubai?

1. 100% legal protection for employers/maids
2. No income tax on helper salaries
3. Vetted candidates via Tadbeer centers
4. Flexible contracts (live-in/out) 

 

Hiring a maid in Dubai is more than convenience—it improves your home life and reduces stress. A seamless and lawful process is ensured by following the correct procedures for obtaining a maid visa in Dubai. Business Link UAE can guide you through every step. They handle paperwork, medicals, and approvals quickly and correctly.

Who Is Eligible to Apply for a Maid Visa in Dubai? 7 Types of People Who Meet the Rules

 

If you want to sponsor a maid in Dubai, you must meet certain rules set by the UAE government. These requirements ensure that sponsors can provide adequate support and living conditions for domestic workers.

Always check the latest updates, since regulations can change often.

7 Sponsor Requirements for Maid Visa

1. Only UAE residents or Emiratis with a valid visa can sponsor a maid. Tourists are not eligible.
2. The sponsor must be at least 21 years old to apply for a maid visa in Dubai.
3. Your monthly salary must be at least AED 25,000, or AED 15,000 with a housing allowance.
4. You must rent or own a home in Dubai with at least two bedrooms.
5. Only families and married couples can apply; single men are not allowed to sponsor.
6. Your job should be professional or high-earning, such as a doctor, engineer, or business owner.
7. You must provide a clean criminal record and have no major immigration violations.

Meeting these criteria is essential for the successful sponsorship of a maid visa in Dubai.

7 Clear Conditions Every Domestic Worker Must Meet

If you’re hiring help at home, you need to know exactly who qualifies. The UAE has strict rules for maids entering the country under a work visa. Meeting each condition is not optional — it’s required. This list explains, in simple terms, what the maid must have to be eligible.

Follow these steps, and your application won’t get delayed or rejected.

1. Age Limit

• The maid cannot be younger than 18
• She also cannot be older than 60
• Age proof must match passport details

2. Must Hold a Valid Passport

• She must have a valid passport for a minimum of six months from the application date
• If it’s near expiry, renew it before applying
• Ensure no travel bans or legal issues linked to the passport

3. Must Come from an Approved Country

• The maid must be from a country allowed by the UAE labor law
• Countries include the Philippines, India, Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Bangladesh, and Nepal
• Always check the latest list from the UAE government before applying.
• Must meet minimum salary criteria (varies by agency/sponsor).

4. Must Pass a Medical Fitness Test

• The health check must happen in a UAE-approved clinic
• Tests include screening for infectious diseases
• A fitness certificate is required before visa approval

5. Must Provide Police Clearance (if required)

• Some nationalities need to submit a clean conduct certificate
• This proves the maid has no criminal background
• It should come from her home country and be recent

6. Cannot Hold Another Work Visa

• The maid must not have another active work permit in the UAE.
• If she had a previous job, that visa must be cancelled first.
• You cannot apply if she is currently employed elsewhere.

7. Cannot Be Related to the Sponsor

• She should not be a close relative by blood or marriage.
• This prevents the misuse of domestic worker permits.
• Proof may be requested during processing.

Maid Eligibility Requirements in Dubai

Eligibility Factor	Requirement
Age	Must be between 18 and 60 years old
Passport Validity	Valid passport for a minimum of six months.
Approved Nationality	Must be from a country approved by the UAE (e.g., Philippines, India, Sri Lanka)
Medical Fitness	Must pass medical fitness test at an approved UAE clinic
Police Clearance	May be required based on nationality; must be recent and from the home country
Work Visa Status	Must not hold another valid work permit in the UAE
Family Relationship	Must not be related to the sponsor by blood or marriage

This is what the maid visa Dubai application needs from the worker’s side. Each point above matches official rules followed by Dubai’s immigration office. So, before you ask how to hire or how to sponsor a maid visa in Dubai, start by checking these eligibility factors.

You’ll avoid mistakes, save time, and ensure the process moves forward without legal issues.

Your Essential Documents for a Dubai Maid Visa: A Full Checklist for Sponsor and Domestic Worker

Starting the process for a domestic helper? Preparing all the correct paperwork is the most important step for a smooth maid visa Dubai application. Get it wrong, and you face delays or rejections. 

 

This guide covers exactly what you need, detailing the latest requirements for a maid visa in Dubai. After Business Link UAE helped countless residents, here’s a proven checklist that simplifies the maid visa process in Dubai.

 

Sponsor Documents (Your Paperwork Checklist)

You must prove your financial stability, residency status, and suitable housing. Gathering these helps speed up your application.

• Passport Copy

1. 1. • Full copy, including your valid UAE residency visa page.

• Emirates ID (Front & Back Copy)

1. 1. • Valid and clearly visible. This confirms your identity.

• Salary Proof

1. 1. • Public sector: Stamped salary certificate showing ≥ AED 25,000/month.
      • Private sector: Your signed labor contract. Also, include 3–6 months’ bank statements. These show consistent income.

• Housing Proof

1. 1. • Your tenancy contract (Ejari) for a 2+ bedroom home (villa/apartment).
      • The latest DEWA bill matches your Ejari address. This confirms your current residence.

   2. Marriage Certificate (If applicable)

      • Required if sponsoring under family status or with a spouse.

   3. No Objection Letter (NOC) (If required)

      • Some Golden Visa holders or company-sponsored residents may need this. It confirms no objection(NOC) from your current sponsor.

• Medical Insurance Policy

1. • Proof of active coverage for the maid. This has been mandatory since 2022.

Your bank statements should show consistent income. Sporadic deposits or low balances can raise red flags during review.

Maid Documents (Her Paperwork Checklist)

Ensure your domestic worker has these ready before you apply. These prove her qualifications, health, and legal status.

• Passport Copy

• validity of at least six months from the date of application. 
• No damage should be present.

• Passport Photos (4x)

1. 1. • Recent pictures with a white background. 
      • They must meet UAE visa standards.

   2. Entry Permit/Visit Visa Copy (If already in UAE)

      • Needed if the maid is currently inside the UAE.
      • This starts her residency process.

   3. Prior Visa Cancellation Proof (If transferring employers)

      • Official clearance from her previous sponsor in the UAE.
      • This shows she is free to work.

• Medical Fitness Certificate

1. 1. • Must be from a DHA-approved center in Dubai.
      •  Tests include hepatitis, HIV, and tuberculosis screening. 
      • This confirms she is fit for work.

   2. Police Clearance Certificate (Country-specific)

      • Required for maids from certain nationalities (e.g., Philippines, Indonesia).
      • It demonstrates that she has no criminal history in her native country.

• Non-Relation Affidavit

1. 1. • A notarized statement confirming no blood or marriage relation.
      • If the maid is the same nationality as you, this is required.

• Signed Labor Contract

1. • A copy of the employment contract. 
   • It clearly outlines salary, job tasks, weekly rest, and leave details.

2. Educational Certificates (If required)

   • Some Tadbeer centers or specific nationalities may ask for these.
   •  Always check this requirement.

Quick-Reference Document Table: Maid Visa Dubai

 

Document Type	From Sponsor	From Maid (Domestic Worker)
Identification/Residency	Passport copy + Emirates ID	Passport copy (6+ months valid)
Financial Proof	Salary cert + Bank st.	—
Housing Proof	Ejari + DEWA bill	—
Legal Status	Marriage certificate	Entry permit/Visit visa (if in UAE)
Health & Background	Medical insurance policy	Medical fitness cert + Police clearance
Employment Details	NOC (if needed)	Signed labor contract + Ed. certs
Relationship Proof	—	Non-relation affidavit
Previous UAE Employment	—	Visa cancellation proof

 

Critical Mistakes to Avoid

• Expired Documents: Always check all dates. Passports, IDs, and Ejari must be current.
• Mismatched Names: Your name must match exactly on all paperwork (e.g., Ejari vs. passport). Small discrepancies cause delays.
• Delayed Medical Examinations: Within 30 days of their arrival in the United Arab Emirates, maids are required to undergo fitness examinations. There may be fines for missing this deadline.
• Missing Non-Relation Proof: If the maid is from your home country, this affidavit is required. Skipping it results in automatic rejection.

Use Tadbeer centers for initial document checks. Their experts often spot errors that most sponsors miss. For complex cases (like Golden Visa holders or sponsoring multiple maids), hiring a PRO service can be invaluable for smooth processing.

Finally, getting your documents right isn’t just paperwork – it’s the foundation of a legal, stress-free sponsorship. Double-check this list against the latest GDRFA updates. Always keep both paper and digital scans handy for quick access. Remember: the AED 2,000 deposit is typically refundable when the maid leaves the UAE, so keep that receipt safe! By preparing correctly, you simplify how to sponsor a maid visa in Dubai and ensure a smooth welcome

How to Apply for a Housemaid Visa in the UAE: Your Stress-Free Guide

Getting a housemaid visa in the UAE is straightforward if you follow the steps correctly. Here’s a clear, step-by-step breakdown:

1. Check Your Eligibility First

• Salary: Earn at least AED 25,000 monthly (combined with a spouse is okay).
• Housing: Ejari has verified that you can either rent or buy a two-bedroom house.
• Status: Married couples only—bachelors cannot sponsor.

2. Gather Essential Documents

• For you: Passport, Emirates ID, salary certificate, tenancy contract, and bank statements.
• For the maid: Passport (6+ months valid), photo, entry permit (if already in UAE), and prior visa cancellation proof.

3. Understand the Costs

Typical Housemaid Visa Expenses (2025)

Item	Cost (AED)
Visa Application & Typing	500–800
Medical Test	300–500
Emirates ID	200–400
Health Insurance	600–1,200
Refundable Deposit	2,000
Total	3,600–4,900+

This does not include the maid’s monthly salary, which ranges from AED 1,000 to 2,500 depending on nationality.

 

4. Follow the Application Steps

Open a Sponsor File:

• Visit a Tadbeer center or the GDRFA portal.
• Submit your documents for initial approval (takes ~24 hours).

Apply for Entry Permit:

• Submit the maid’s details.
• Get approval via SMS/email (2–3 days).

Change Status (if in UAE):

• Within 60 days, convert a visitor or canceled visa to employment status.

Medical Test:

• Visit approved centers (e.g., Al Muhaisnah, Karama).
• Tests include HIV, TB, and hepatitis.

Emirates ID & Biometrics:

• Complete within 10 days after medical clearance.

Sign Employment Contract:

• Use MOHRE’s standard contract outlining salary, leave, and duties.

Buy Health Insurance:

• Get a policy covering emergencies, labs, and meds.

Stamp Residence Visa:

• Submit all documents to GDRFA.
• Visa validity: 1 year (expats) or 2 years (Golden Visa holders).

Know Worker Rights & Rules

• One paid day off every week and twelve hours of rest per day.
• Annually: 30 days paid leave, sick leave, and a return flight every 2 years.
• Employer Duties: Provide medical insurance, suitable housing, and timely wages.

Avoid Common Mistakes

• Missed deadlines: Medical results (90 days), biometrics (10 days), or change of status (60 days) void the process.
• Incomplete docs: Missing Ejari or salary proof causes rejections.
• Skipping Tadbeer: For salaries under AED 25,000, use agency sponsorship (cost: ~AED 7,999 for 2 years).

7. Take care about

• Track online: Use the GDRFA or MOHRE apps for updates.
• Renew early: Start 30 days before expiry to avoid fines (AED 25/day).
• Replace? Report absconding to immigration immediately.

While the process has many steps, each is manageable with preparation. Always double-check the latest rules on the GDRFA site or Tadbeer centers to stay compliant.

UAE Housemaid Visa Application Steps

 

Step	Action	Notes
1	Check eligibility	Salary, housing, marital status
2	Gather documents	Sponsor and maid papers
3	Access the sponsor file	using the GDRFA site or the Tadbeer Center.
4	Apply for an entry permit	Wait 2–3 days for approval
5	Maid arrives or changes status	Within 60 days if already in the UAE
6	Medical fitness test	Approved health center
7	Emirates ID registration	Biometric scanning
8	Sign the employment contract	MOHRE standard form
9	Purchase health insurance	Mandatory coverage
10	Visa stamping	Valid for 1 or 2 years

Making Your Housemaid Visa Application Smooth

Navigating the housemaid visa application in the UAE is very manageable when you know the steps. By following this detailed guide, carefully preparing all your documents, and adhering to official procedures, you can ensure a smooth process. Remember that being organized and proactive saves you time and stress. This clear path helps you welcome your domestic helper efficiently and legally, building a harmonious home environment for everyone involved.

What Are the Main Responsibilities of a Sponsor of a Maid Visa in Dubai?

When you sponsor a maid visa in Dubai, you agree to take full responsibility for her well-being and legal employment. Here’s what that includes:

• Pay her salary on time every month, as stated in the contract
• Provide proper housing, such as a private room and daily meals
• Cover all medical costs, including mandatory health insurance
• Pay for her return flight when the contract ends or is not renewed
• Ensure her safety and fair treatment, following UAE labor laws

Being a sponsor means more than paperwork—it’s a legal and ethical duty to care for your domestic worker from start to finish.

 

How Long Does It Usually Take to Process a Maid Visa in Dubai?

The processing time for a maid visa in Dubai has become more streamlined. 

• Generally, getting the initial entry permit takes about 3 to 5 working days after submitting all correct documents. 
• Once your maid enters the UAE, she has 30 days to complete post-arrival formalities. 
• This includes the medical test, which gives results in 24-72 hours. 
• Then, applying for the Emirates ID and visa stamping usually takes another 5 to 10 working days. 
• So, the entire process, from applying for the entry permit to getting the visa stamped, can be as quick as 10 to 15 working days if there are no delays.

 

Maid Visa Dubai 2025 Cost Guide: All Fees Included

The cost for a maid visa in Dubai in 2025 involves several payments.

• First, visa application and typing fees at Amer/Tadbeer centers are typically AED 500- AED 800.
• Next, the maid’s medical fitness test costs AED 300- AED 500.
• Then, the Emirates ID application adds AED 200- AED 400.
• Crucially, mandatory health insurance premiums usually range from AED 800 to AED 2,500 annually.
• Finally, the refundable security deposit is AED 2,000. Overall, expect total government and agency fees (excluding salary) for a new maid visa in Dubai to be approximately AED 4,000 to AED 7,000 for a two-year visa, directly, plus the annual insurance.

 

How can Business Link UAE assist with the maid visa process in Dubai?

Business Link UAE offers comprehensive support for obtaining a maid visa in Dubai. Their services include:

1. Guidance on eligibility and requirements.
2. Assistance with document preparation.
3. Coordination with relevant authorities.
4. Ensuring compliance with UAE laws.
5. Helping with renewals and cancellations, making the process smooth and stress-free

With their experience, you can avoid mistakes and get your maid visa in Dubai quickly and legally.

Summary

Ready to simplify your daily life? Maid Visa in Dubai: Get More Time & Less Stress in 7 Steps gives you all the answers—clear, legal, and fast. Now it’s your turn. Take the first step today. Start with Business Link. They guide you through each part of the maid visa in Dubai process, saving you time, stress, and effort. Still have questions? Contact Business Link UAE now and make your home support journey smooth from day one.

 

FAQ’s

Which nationalities can be hired under a maid visa in Dubai?

Commonly accepted nationalities include the Philippines, India, Indonesia, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and Ethiopia. Always check the latest list before applying, as rules can change.

What happens if I need to cancel a maid visa in Dubai?

To cancel a maid visa in Dubai, you must submit a cancellation form to the GDRFA, provide the maid’s passport and a one-way ticket home, and accompany her to the airport on departure day. Immigration officials will complete the cancellation process. Always follow legal steps to avoid penalties.

 

Can I Convert a Visit Visa to a Maid Visa in Dubai if My Maid Is Already in the UAE?

Yes, you can. This allows her to stay in the UAE without leaving and returning. The step is called a status change. 

• You must apply for the entry permit while she remains inside the country.
• This involves paying a specific status change fee, which is usually higher than applying for an entry permit from outside the country.
• After the entry permit is issued, the maid completes the medical test and Emirates ID application, then the visa is stamped. 
• This option offers convenience, but it requires swift action before her visit visa expires.