Hiring domestic help has become a necessity for many families in the UAE, especially in Dubai, where fast-paced lifestyles demand extra assistance. One of the most common questions employers ask before hiring is about the nanny visa cost Dubai. Understanding the expenses involved helps families plan better and stay compliant with local laws. This guide explains all the details you need to know about the nanny visa process, eligibility, and costs for families in Dubai.
What is a Nanny Visa in Dubai?
A nanny visa, often referred to as a domestic worker visa, is a legal permit that allows a family to sponsor a nanny or maid from outside the UAE. Sponsoring a nanny involves various legal procedures under the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) and the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA). Knowing the nanny visa cost Dubai is important for budgeting, as the process involves several stages and fees.
Eligibility to Sponsor a Nanny in Dubai
Not every resident is eligible to sponsor a nanny. Families must meet certain requirements:
- The head of the family must earn a minimum salary (usually AED 6,000–7,000).
- The sponsor must have suitable accommodation for the nanny.
- Legal documents such as tenancy contracts, Emirates IDs, and salary certificates are required.
Only when these requirements are met can families proceed with paying the nanny visa cost Dubai.
Components of the Nanny Visa Cost in Dubai
The nanny visa cost Dubai is not a single fee but a combination of several expenses. Families must be aware of the breakdown to avoid surprises:
1. Government Application Fees
The initial application for sponsoring a nanny costs around AED 200–300. This is the first step in determining the total nanny visa cost Dubai.
2. Entry Permit and Typing Charges
Once the application is approved, an entry permit is required for the nanny. This may cost between AED 500–600. Typing charges also add up, further increasing the nanny visa cost Dubai.
3. Medical Tests and Emirates ID
Every nanny must undergo a mandatory medical test upon arrival, which costs about AED 300–400. Alongside this, an Emirates ID application is required, costing around AED 370 for two years. Both of these expenses are included in the nanny visa cost Dubai.
4. Residence Visa Stamping
The nanny’s passport must be stamped with the UAE residence visa. This can cost AED 500–600 depending on the application center. Again, this is a crucial part of the total nanny visa cost Dubai.
5. Yearly Renewal Fees
The visa is usually valid for one or two years and must be renewed before expiration. Renewal charges are similar to the initial fees, so families must budget for the recurring nanny visa cost Dubai.
Additional Costs Families Should Consider
Besides the government-related expenses, there are extra costs that come with hiring and sponsoring a nanny in Dubai. These include:
- Health Insurance: Compulsory for all domestic workers, averaging AED 600–700 annually.
- Air Tickets: Sponsors must provide return flight tickets to the nanny’s home country, adding to the overall nanny visa cost Dubai.
- Recruitment Agency Fees: If families use an agency to find a nanny, recruitment charges may range from AED 3,000–6,000.
Taking these into account gives a realistic view of the nanny visa cost Dubai.
Approximate Total Nanny Visa Cost Dubai for Families
On average, the total nanny visa cost Dubai may range between AED 5,000 and AED 7,000 for the first year, excluding monthly salaries. With renewals, annual costs can go slightly lower since some initial one-time fees will not be repeated. However, each family’s exact expenses may vary based on the nanny’s nationality, the chosen recruitment method, and government fee updates.
Why Families Should Know the Nanny Visa Cost in Dubai
Understanding the full nanny visa cost Dubai helps families make informed financial decisions. Many families underestimate the long-term expenses, which include not only government fees but also salaries, medical care, and other benefits. By planning ahead, families can provide better working conditions for their nannies while staying compliant with UAE labor laws.
Conclusion
For families in the UAE, especially in Dubai, hiring a nanny brings comfort and support but also requires legal responsibilities. The nanny visa cost Dubai includes application fees, medical checks, Emirates ID, residence stamping, and annual renewals, along with additional expenses like health insurance and flight tickets. On average, families should budget between AED 5,000 and AED 7,000 for the initial year. Understanding the nanny visa cost Dubai allows families to plan effectively, avoid unexpected financial stress, and ensure a smooth sponsorship process that benefits both the household and the nanny.
