Sponsoring a Maid in UAE 2026: Visa Process, Salary, Insurance

Who Can Sponsor a Maid in 2026

Only residents earning AED 25,000 or more per month, or property owners with AED 2 million in assets, can sponsor a domestic helper. The sponsor must hold a valid residence visa issued by ICP and maintain medical insurance for the entire household.

Salary and Contract Requirements

The official minimum wage for domestic workers remains AED 1,500 per month, paid directly into a bank account every 30 days. Contracts must run for two years and include 30 days of paid annual leave plus one return ticket every 24 months. Employers pay for food, accommodation, and utilities; no deductions are allowed from the worker's salary.

Visa and Deposit Process

Begin the application inside the ICP app or portal. Pay the AED 5,000 refundable deposit, upload the sponsor's salary certificate and tenancy contract, then book a medical fitness test for the worker. Once the entry permit is approved, the maid enters the UAE and completes Emirates ID registration within 60 days.

Health Insurance and Tadbeer Centres

Every domestic helper must carry DHA-approved health insurance costing AED 700 to AED 1,200 for two years. Recruitment happens only through licensed Tadbeer centres; agencies outside this network are illegal. The centre handles the labour contract stamping with MOHRE before the visa is issued.

Renewal and End of Service

Renew the residence visa and insurance 30 days before expiry. At contract end, pay AED 2,500 end-of-service gratuity if the maid has completed two full years. Cancel the visa through ICP, return the Emirates ID, and request release of the AED 5,000 deposit within 14 working days.

Ask Tovi for more

Tovi knows current 2026 UAE rules, fees, and processes. Ask anything. Ask Tovi free →

Got more UAE questions?

Tovi knows current 2026 UAE rules, fees, and processes. Ask anything — visas, banking, housing, schools. Ask Tovi free →