Top 7 FAQs About Maids Visa in the UAE

Hiring a domestic helper or maid in the UAE is a common and often essential practice for many families, especially those juggling demanding careers and busy households. While the process is straightforward once understood, it can seem daunting for newcomers or those unfamiliar with the legal requirements.

To simplify things, here are the top 7 frequently asked questions (FAQs) about obtaining a maid's visa in the UAE, covering everything from eligibility to costs, renewal, and more.

1. Who is eligible to sponsor a maid in the UAE?

In the UAE, not everyone can sponsor a domestic worker. To be eligible:

• The sponsor must be a resident (not tourist) of the UAE.

• The sponsor must be a family, not a single person, unless special permission is granted.

• The sponsor’s salary should generally be at least AED 25,000 per month, though this may vary slightly depending on the emirate.

• The sponsor must reside in a suitable accommodation (e.g., a separate room for the maid).

Authorities will often require proof of income, tenancy contracts, and a marriage certificate (if applicable). Some emirates like Dubai may also require an affidavit stating the maid will not be mistreated or overworked.

2. What is the process for applying for a maid’s visa?

Sponsoring a maid in the UAE involves several steps:

1. Entry Permit: First, apply for an entry permit so the maid can enter the country (if she is outside the UAE).

2. Medical Test: Once she is in the UAE, a medical fitness test (blood test, X-ray, etc.) is mandatory.

3. Emirates ID: Apply for an Emirates ID card.

4. Visa Stamping: After completing the medical and Emirates ID process, the visa is stamped in the maid’s passport.

5. Labour Card / Contract Registration: Depending on the emirate, you’ll need to register the maid’s contract with the appropriate authority (like GDRFA in Dubai or MOHRE in other emirates).

The process can take 1 to 2 weeks if documents are in order.

3. Can I hire a maid from another country directly, or do I have to use a licensed agency?

Yes, you have two main options:

a) Direct Hire (Individual Sponsorship):

You can sponsor a maid directly from countries that allow it (like the Philippines, India, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, etc.), but you’ll need to follow both UAE and home country embassy requirements. You will be responsible for:

• Visa processing

• Flight tickets

• Medical insurance

• Employment contract

b) Licensed Maid Agencies:

Many prefer using registered agencies in the UAE that provide trained domestic workers on a temporary or full-time basis. The agencies usually handle all paperwork, and you’ll either:

• Sponsor the maid yourself after a trial period, or

• Keep her under the agency's sponsorship.

Going through an agency tends to be more expensive but convenient and compliant.

4. What are the costs involved in sponsoring a maid?

Sponsoring a maid comes with upfront and ongoing costs. These may include:

• Visa fees: AED 5,000 to AED 6,000 (approx.)

• Medical test: AED 400 – AED 500

• Emirates ID: AED 250 – AED 500 (depending on the duration)

• Deposit (refundable): AED 2,000 – AED 3,000 to the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA)

• Annual salary: Varies by nationality and experience, typically ranges from AED 1,500 to AED 3,500/month

• Flight tickets: Usually once a year

• Health insurance: Mandatory in most emirates, costs AED 700 – AED 1,000 annually

Additional costs may include a recruitment agency fee (if applicable) and government service typing charges.

5. What are the maid’s working hours, rights, and entitlements?

As per Federal Decree-Law No. (9) of 2022, which governs domestic helpers in the UAE:

• Working hours: Not more than 12 hours per day, with 8 hours of rest

• Weekly day off: Minimum 1 rest day per week

• Paid leave: 30 days annually after completing one year of service

• End-of-service benefit: 14 days’ wage per year, payable at the end of service

• Medical care: Must be provided by the employer

• Salary payment: Must be paid monthly and in cash or via WPS (Wage Protection System)

Employers are also prohibited from withholding passports and must provide proper accommodation and meals.

6. Can the maid switch employers or cancel her visa mid-contract?

Yes, but there are conditions:

• If the maid is on a sponsorship visa under an individual employer, the visa must be cancelled by the current sponsor before she can switch employers.

• No Objection Certificate (NOC) may be required in certain cases.

• A cooling-off period may apply for certain nationalities before re-entering the UAE on a new visa (varies based on agreements between countries).

If either party wants to terminate the contract early, it should be done through mutual agreement, and proper notice should be given. Failing to follow the rules may lead to bans or fines.

7. How do I renew or cancel a maid’s visa?

Renewal Process:

The maid's visa is usually valid for one or two years depending on the contract. To renew:

• Repeat the medical test

• Renew the Emirates ID

• Pay renewal fees

• Update labour contract (if applicable)

Renewal should be initiated 30 days before expiry to avoid penalties.

Cancellation Process:

If you want to cancel the visa:

1. Book cancellation appointment at the immigration office.

2. Purchase a one-way ticket for the maid (if she's returning home).

3. Sign a cancellation form and obtain final settlement proof (salary, end-of-service, leave encashment).

4. Maid must exit the country, and the visa will be officially cancelled at the airport immigration.

Alternatively, if she is transferring to another sponsor, the new sponsor handles the transfer through immigration.

Final Thoughts

Hiring a maid in the UAE can significantly improve the quality of life for families, but it also comes with legal responsibilities. Understanding the visa process, associated costs, and rights of domestic helpers ensures a smooth and ethical employment relationship.

If in doubt, consult with a licensed PRO, immigration office, or a registered maid agency to avoid fines and complications.

Bonus Tip:

Always keep copies of all signed contracts, receipts, visa documents, and Emirates ID cards. These may be needed during renewals, disputes, or transfers.