Hiring a nanny or housemaid in Dubai requires a legal domestic worker visa. This guide explains everything you need to know in 2026: eligibility, documents, fees, contracts, and legal obligations. Whether you’re a first-time sponsor or renewing a visa, following the correct process is crucial to avoid penalties and ensure your nanny’s rights are protected.

What is a Nanny Visa in Dubai?

A nanny visa is a type of residence visa issued under the UAE’s domestic worker visa system. It allows families in Dubai to hire nannies, housemaids, or caregivers for childcare and household support. Processing is done via Tadbeer centers under MOHRE (Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation), along with GDRFA for residency approvals.

Who Can Sponsor a Nanny? (Sponsor Eligibility)

Sponsor requirements checklist

Must hold a valid Dubai residence visa and Emirates ID.
Must have sufficient monthly income to cover nanny salary, housing, and insurance.
Must provide suitable accommodation for the domestic worker.
Sponsor must be a family head (usually male or female head of household).
Must agree to comply with domestic worker law: timely salary, rest days, leave, and health insurance.

Who cannot sponsor

Bachelors or unmarried men are generally not allowed to sponsor domestic workers.
Sponsors without proof of adequate housing or income.
Expired residence visa holders.

Nanny / Domestic Worker Eligibility

Age requirement: 18–60 years (exceptions require approvals).
Must pass medical fitness tests in Dubai.
Must have a valid passport (6+ months).
No criminal record.
Worker must sign a domestic worker contract with the sponsor.

Documents Required

For the Sponsor:

Passport copy & valid residence visa page.
Emirates ID.
Salary certificate or employment contract.
Tenancy contract (Ejari) or property title deed.
Recent DEWA/utility bill.
Marriage certificate (for family status).
Passport-size photos.

For the Worker:

Passport copy.
Passport-size photos (white background).
Entry permit (if coming from outside UAE).
Medical fitness certificate.
Emirates ID application form.
Signed MOHRE domestic worker contract.

Step-by-Step Process for a Nanny Visa in 2026

Step 1: Open sponsor file & apply through Tadbeer

Start at a Tadbeer service center or official typing center.

Step 2: Entry permit or status change

If the nanny is outside the UAE, an entry permit is issued. If already inside Dubai, apply for status change.

Step 3: Medical fitness test

The nanny must undergo a medical test at an authorized Dubai health center.

Step 4: Emirates ID & health insurance

Enroll for biometrics and issue Emirates ID. Sponsors must provide mandatory health insurance.

Step 5: Sign MOHRE domestic worker contract

A standardized contract must state duties, salary, working hours, rest days, leave, and end-of-service benefits.

Step 6: Visa stamping & Emirates ID delivery

Once approved, the nanny’s residence visa is stamped on the passport and Emirates ID is issued.

Salary, Contracts & Worker Rights

Working hours & weekly rest

Maximum 12 hours per day, including 8 hours of rest.
At least 1 paid weekly rest day.

Leave entitlements

30 days paid annual leave per year.
30 days sick leave per year (as per law).
Air ticket every 2 years to home country (commonly provided).

Wages & gratuity

Salary must be paid on time (within 10 days).
End-of-service gratuity applies as per MOHRE rules, based on basic salary and years of service.

Visa Fees & Costs in 2026

Application & government fees: For entry permit, visa stamping, medical test, Emirates ID.
Tadbeer service fees: Depends on package chosen.
Health insurance: Mandatory for each domestic worker.
Annual leave ticket & food/accommodation: Additional sponsor responsibilities.

(Costs vary depending on nationality and service packages.)

Renewal, Transfer & Cancellation

Renewal: Apply 30–45 days before expiry. Update insurance and medical if needed.
Transfer: Possible with MOHRE approval if the nanny changes employers.
Cancellation: Sponsor must cancel visa, provide final dues, and arrange return ticket.