Is Sponsoring a Domestic Worker in the UAE Really That Complicated?
If you’ve ever felt that hiring a domestic worker in the UAE is overwhelming — endless paperwork, confusing appointments, and rules that keep changing — you’re not alone. The process can seem intimidating, but with the digital updates in 2026, it’s actually simpler than ever if you know the right steps.
You need help at home, but the fear of getting lost in the process holds you back. With the AAMER App, you can now submit applications, upload documents, book appointments, and track your request digitally — without long waits or running between offices.
The Legal Framework: What Governs Domestic Workers in the UAE?
Domestic workers in the UAE are regulated under Federal Decree-Law No. 9 of 2022, amended by Decree No. 21 of 2023. This law covers 19 categories of domestic workers — including maids, nannies, cooks, drivers, gardeners, and caregivers — and establishes the rights and obligations of both employers and workers.
Key protections under the law:
- Prohibits forced labor and any practice constituting human trafficking
- Bans discrimination based on race, gender, religion, or color
- Requires salary payment through the Wage Protection System (WPS) — cash payments are not accepted
- Mandates contract registration with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE)
- Ensures the worker is informed of all contract terms before entering the UAE
Who Can Sponsor a Domestic Worker in the UAE?
UAE nationals, GCC nationals, and residents with valid residency can sponsor domestic workers — provided they meet the following requirements:
Income Requirements:
- Expatriates: Minimum monthly income of AED 25,000 (combined family income is acceptable)
- UAE nationals: Minimum AED 10,000 per month
- Medical necessity cases: Minimum AED 15,000 per month
Housing Requirements:
- The sponsor must live in or rent accommodation with at least two bedrooms
- Suitable and separate living quarters must be provided for the worker
Additional Conditions:
- Valid Emirates ID for the sponsor
- Bachelors cannot sponsor female domestic workers — with limited exceptions for medical cases
- The domestic worker must be at least 21 years old
- Recruitment must be done through MoHRE-authorized Tadbeer centers or licensed recruitment agencies — hiring outside official channels is illegal and carries penalties for both parties
The Contract: What Must It Include?
The contract is not just paperwork — it’s a legally binding agreement that protects both sides. It must be a standardized contract issued by MoHRE and include:
- Names of both parties (sponsor and worker)
- Nature and scope of the work
- Contract duration (typically two years)
- Agreed salary and payment method (via WPS)
- Working hours, daily rest periods, and weekly day off
- Start date and accommodation details
- Termination conditions and leave entitlements
The contract must be signed by both parties, and the worker must be fully aware of all terms before arriving in the UAE.
Step by Step: How to Apply for a Domestic Worker Visa
1. Confirm Your Eligibility
Verify that you meet the income and housing requirements, and that the worker meets the minimum age and eligibility criteria.
2. Apply for an Entry Permit
Submit the application through the MoHRE portal, GDRFA (General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs), or digitally through the AAMER App.
3. Medical Fitness Test
After the worker arrives in the UAE, they must complete a mandatory medical screening at an approved center. This typically includes tests for infectious diseases (tuberculosis, HIV, etc.). Female workers may also be required to undergo a pregnancy test.
4. Biometrics and Emirates ID
The worker must register their biometrics (fingerprints, digital photo, signature) at an approved ICP center. In Dubai, you can complete biometrics and the medical test in a single visit through the Basmati initiative — bookable via the AAMER App.
5. Residency Visa Issuance
Once all steps are completed, the digital residency visa is issued and the Emirates ID card is delivered to the sponsor.
How Much Does a Domestic Worker Visa Cost?
Costs vary depending on several factors and typically include:
- Entry permit fees
- Medical fitness test fees
- Biometrics and Emirates ID issuance fees
- Residency visa issuance fees
- Health insurance (mandatory — the sponsor’s responsibility)
- Annual renewal fees
Fees are updated periodically. It’s always recommended to check the latest fees through the AAMER App or by contacting AAMER Logistics directly.
Rights and Obligations You Need to Know
Worker’s Rights:
- Salary paid on time via WPS (within 10 days of the due date)
- At least one weekly rest day
- Suitable accommodation and meals provided by the sponsor
- Retention of their passport and ID at all times
- A round-trip air ticket to their home country every two years
- End-of-service gratuity
- The right to resign in accordance with contract terms
Sponsor’s Obligations:
- Pay salary through WPS on the agreed date
- Provide health insurance for the worker
- Treat the worker with respect — no form of violence or abuse
- Never confiscate the worker’s passport or personal documents
How AAMER Logistics Simplifies the Domestic Worker Visa Process
Instead of navigating multiple authorities and trying to coordinate every step yourself, AAMER Logistics organizes the entire process for you:
- Submit your application digitally through the AAMER App
- Upload required documents directly from your phone
- Book biometrics and medical test appointments — in Dubai, complete both in one visit via the Basmati initiative
- Track your application status in real time from the app
- Get full support from a specialized ID and immigration services team
With AAMER Logistics, the process is faster, more transparent, and fully managed — you upload the documents, follow the progress, and the team handles the rest.
FAQs
How long is a domestic worker visa valid?
The visa is valid for two years and must be renewed annually. Failing to renew on time may result in fines.
Can I hire a domestic worker from any country?
You can recruit from several countries, including India, the Philippines, Nepal, Bangladesh, Indonesia, and Sri Lanka. All recruitment must go through official channels or MoHRE-authorized Tadbeer centers.
Can the domestic worker resign?
Yes. A domestic worker can resign by providing advance notice as specified in the contract. However, resigning before completing the contract without valid reason may affect certain entitlements such as end-of-service gratuity.
Where can I get help if there’s a problem?
You can contact the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) to file a complaint or inquiry. AAMER Logistics’ team can also assist you at any stage of the process.
Ready to Get Started?
Don’t let administrative complexity hold you back. Download the AAMER App and start your domestic worker visa process today — with speed, transparency, and full support from AAMER Logistics.