Dubai is full of foreign families. The majority of them hire nannies to help with household chores and childcare. Hiring a nanny is not just a question of getting the right person. Employers have to undergo legal procedures, such as obtaining a nanny visa. Familiarity with these regulations will prevent issues and make the process smooth.
Who Can Sponsor a Nanny in Dubai?
Not all are eligible to sponsor a nanny. The regulation specifies that only:
- Married expats holding a valid UAE residency visa are eligible to apply.
- Families that have sufficient income (according to the UAE government’s stipulation).
- Citizens who are able to demonstrate that they can fund a nanny’s wages, accommodation, and other expenses.
Bachelor guys normally cannot sponsor a nanny. Single moms may require additional sanctions.
Documents Needed for a Nanny Visa in Dubai
To apply for a nanny visa in Dubai, employers must submit these documents:
- A copy of the employer’s Emirates ID, residency visa, and passport.
- A copy of the nanny’s passport (valid for at least six months).
- Recent passport-sized photos of the nanny.
- A copy of the employer’s Ejari (rental agreement) or property ownership proof.
- Proof of salary, such as a salary certificate.
- A signed contract with the nanny, including salary and working conditions.
How to Apply for a Nanny Visa
- Get an Entry Permit – To bring a nanny to Dubai, your employer needs to secure an entry permit from the GDRFA. If the nanny is already here, a visa status change may be required. Essentially, your employer handles the application process for the permit or status change
- Medical Test – The nanny must take a medical test, including screening for infectious diseases.
- Apply for an Emirates ID – Once the medical results are ready, the employer can apply for an Emirates ID for the nanny
- Visa Stamping – After all steps are complete, the nanny’s residency visa is stamped on her passport.
How Much Does a Nanny Visa Cost?
The overall expense varies depending on various factors, but employers can anticipate paying for:
- Visa fees.
- Medical test charges.
- Emirates ID registration.
- Health insurance (compulsory for all Dubai domestic workers).
- Annual sponsorship charge.
Employers will also have to pay the salary of their nanny. The expense varies depending on the minimum pay determined by the embassy of the nanny’s home country.
Employer Responsibilities
Employers are required to abide by UAE labor laws when recruiting a nanny. This involves:
- Offering a legal agreement with clear job conditions.
- Payment of agreed salary on time.
- Granting a minimum one-day break per week.
- Offering decent shelter and provisions.
- Payment for medical services or health insurance.
Violation of these rules would result in fines, revocation of the visa, or prohibition from recruiting domestic staff.
Renewing or Canceling a Nanny Visa
A nanny visa is either one or two years, depending on the visa. Employers need to renew it in a timely manner to prevent fines.
An employer may wish to cancel the visa if they need to, and they must:
- Obtain a visa cancellation form from the GDRFA.
- Buy the nanny a return ticket to her home country.
- Pay any pending salary or benefits.
Final Thoughts
Hiring a nanny in Dubai comes with responsibilities. Employers have to abide by the law, be kind to their nannies, and keep documents current. Following the proper procedure will provide a positive experience for both the families and the domestic workers.
