Family & dependant visas
UAE Domestic Worker Residence Visa
Allows a resident or citizen household to sponsor a domestic worker to live and work in their home.
Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced
Under review — check current rules
The exact minimum salary a sponsor must earn to sponsor a domestic worker was not confirmed from an official u.ae page (the AED 4,000 / AED 3,000-plus-accommodation figure verified relates to family sponsorship, not domestic workers specifically), so no domestic-worker sponsor salary figure is stated. Recruitment is regulated by Federal Decree-Law No. 9 of 2022 (as amended by Federal Decree-Law No. 21 of 2023).
Important information
Immigration rules and fees can change. This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always check the latest requirements on the official United Arab Emirates government website before you apply.
On this page
- Official name
- Domestic worker residence visa
- Route type
- Household-sponsored residence visa
- Legal framework
- UAE law on domestic workers (MOHRE-regulated contract)
- Where to apply
- Tadbeer service centres (or GDRFA / ICP)
- Medical test
- Required for workers aged 18 and above
- Emirates ID
- Required
Who it is for
- Resident and citizen households employing a domestic worker (e.g. housemaid, cook, driver)
- Golden visa holders, who may sponsor an unlimited number of domestic helpers
Requirements
- A work contract on the ministry's approved template, with a copy given to the worker
- A medical examination of the worker within 30 days before entry to the UAE
- Suitable housing and subsistence provided by the employer
- Wages paid through approved mechanisms
How to apply
The sponsoring household arranges the contract and entry through the approved government channels (MOHRE / Tadbeer service centres and GDRFA or ICP), then completes medical and Emirates ID steps for the worker inside the UAE.
Official sources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.
Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.