Emirates Maid Visa 2026 – Complete Guide to Sponsoring a Domestic Worker in the UAE

Hiring a maid, nanny, or domestic worker in the Emirates is a common need for many families. However, the process of sponsoring a maid visa can seem complex without the right guidance. This detailed 2026 guide explains how to apply for an Emirates Maid Visa, eligibility conditions, required documents, costs, and legal responsibilities for sponsors in the UAE.

What Is an Emirates Maid Visa?

An Emirates Maid Visa (also known as a UAE Domestic Worker Visa) allows residents and citizens to sponsor foreign domestic workers such as maids, nannies, cooks, and caregivers. This visa authorizes them to legally live and work in the sponsor’s household within the UAE.

The visa is issued under the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) and regulated by the UAE Domestic Workers Law, which ensures fair working conditions and rights for both employers and employees.

Eligibility Criteria to Sponsor a Maid in the Emirates

Who Can Sponsor a Maid in the UAE

To be eligible to sponsor a maid, the sponsor must:

• Be a UAE resident with a valid residency visa.

• Earn a minimum monthly salary of AED 25,000.

• Live with their family in suitable accommodation.

• Be married (bachelors are not permitted to sponsor domestic workers).

Age and Nationality Restrictions

• The maid must be at least 30 years old.

• Maids are typically recruited from approved countries such as the Philippines, India, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Nepal, among others.

• Applicants must be physically fit and pass the UAE’s mandatory medical tests.

Emirates Maid Visa Requirements 2026

Documents Required for Sponsor

• Copy of the sponsor’s passport and Emirates ID

• Copy of the residence visa

• Bank statement for the last three months

• Employment contract or salary certificate

• Tenancy contract or accommodation proof

• Medical insurance proof

• Attested marriage certificate (if applicable)

Documents Required for Maid

• Passport copy (valid for at least six months)

• Recent passport-size photographs

• Medical fitness certificate

• Police clearance certificate (if required)

• Vaccination proof

• Employment contract signed by both parties

Step-by-Step Process to Apply for a Maid Visa in the Emirates

Step 1 – Apply for Entry Permit

Apply online or at a registered typing center or Amer service center for an entry permit, allowing the maid to enter the UAE.

Step 2 – Complete Medical Fitness Test

Within 30 days of arrival, the maid must undergo a medical examination (blood test and chest X-ray) at an approved UAE health center.

Step 3 – Register for Emirates ID

The sponsor must apply for an Emirates ID on behalf of the maid. This is mandatory for all UAE residents.

Step 4 – Obtain the Domestic Worker Card

Once the visa is approved, the maid will receive a domestic worker card, allowing them to officially start working in the UAE.

Emirates Maid Visa Cost and Validity

• Initial visa fee: Approximately AED 9,200 per year (includes government charges and insurance).

• Medical test and Emirates ID registration: AED 400–800.

• Renewal: Annual renewal required with updated medical test.

• Refundable deposit: Varies based on nationality (AED 2,000–5,000).

Rights and Benefits of Maids Working in the Emirates

The UAE’s domestic worker law ensures fair treatment and protection, including:

• Paid salary within 10 days of due date

• One day off per week

• 12 hours of daily rest (8 hours continuous)

• 30 days of paid annual leave

• Medical insurance coverage

• 30 days of medical leave per year

• Round-trip air ticket every two years

• Safe accommodation and meals provided by employer

Responsibilities of the Sponsor

• Pay salaries on time through official banking channels.

• Provide accommodation, meals, and medical coverage.

• Respect maid’s personal rights and freedom of movement.

• Bear visa renewal, cancellation, and repatriation costs.

• Keep the maid’s passport and personal documents only with consent.

How to Cancel an Emirates Maid Visa

If the maid’s employment ends or the contract expires, the sponsor must cancel the maid visa through the GDRFA or at the airport:

1. Submit a visa cancellation request at a GDRFA center.

2. Attach the maid’s passport, labor card, and cancellation form.

3. Receive two cancellation receipts — one for GDRFA and one for the maid.

4. Accompany the maid to the airport to ensure proper exit and visa deactivation.

5. Pay the cancellation fee (around AED 100).

Where to Get the Maid’s Medical Test Done in the UAE

Medical fitness tests can be done at:

• Authorized government health centers

• Amer service centers or typing centers that provide eMedical registration

• The Arab Business Centre (for online and in-person applications)

Tip: If vaccination records are up to date, additional charges for immunization are waived.

Hiring a Maid in the Emirates: Self-Sponsorship vs. Agency Hiring

Hiring Through an Agency

Agencies simplify the process by managing documentation, visa processing, and travel arrangements. However, ensure the agency provides residence visas, not just tourist visas, to avoid additional costs later.

Hiring on Self-Sponsorship Basis

You can sponsor a maid directly by submitting the required documents to GDRFA. This method gives you full control over the hiring and reduces long-term expenses.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for a Maid Visa

• Submitting incomplete or expired documents

• Hiring on a tourist visa instead of a domestic worker visa

• Delaying medical test or Emirates ID registration

• Not renewing the visa on time (can lead to fines)

Why Choose a Professional Visa Service for Your Maid Visa Application

Applying for a maid visa on your own can be confusing and time-consuming. A professional Emirates visa service ensures:

• Error-free documentation and submission

• Faster approvals from GDRFA and MOHRE

• Transparent processing with status tracking

• End-to-end support from visa to cancellation

✅ Apply for your Emirates Visa today with our expert assistance and ensure a smooth, compliant, and stress-free process.

Conclusion – Simplify Your Emirates Maid Visa Process

Sponsoring a maid in the Emirates is straightforward when you understand the requirements and follow proper procedures. Whether you’re hiring through an agency or directly, compliance with UAE domestic worker laws ensures fair treatment, safety, and legal protection for both employer and employee.

Start your Emirates Maid Visa application today and bring trusted domestic help to your home with complete peace of mind.