When sponsoring a maid in Dubai, understanding the total cost and duration of the visa is essential. The process involves multiple government fees and procedures, all regulated by UAE authorities to ensure legal compliance. Whether you are a resident sponsoring a domestic worker for the first time or renewing an existing visa, knowing the expected expenses and timelines can help you plan efficiently and avoid unnecessary fines.
1. Overview of Maid Visa Expenses
A maid visa in Dubai requires approvals from several entities, such as the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA), the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICP), and the Dubai Health Authority (DHA). The total cost usually includes processing fees, deposits, insurance, and typing charges. On average, the initial cost for sponsoring a maid visa ranges between AED 6,000 and AED 8,000 for the first year. This estimate covers everything from the entry permit to visa stamping, including the refundable deposit required by the GDRFA. The total may vary slightly depending on the nationality of the maid, the type of insurance selected, and whether you complete the process yourself or through an authorized typing center.
2. Breakdown of Initial Visa Costs
The cost begins with an entry permit, which allows the maid to enter or adjust her visa status within the UAE. After that, sponsors must pay application typing charges and processing fees to the GDRFA. Once the initial application is approved, the maid must undergo a medical fitness test at a certified health center, followed by Emirates ID registration, both of which involve separate government charges. Next comes visa stamping, the step where the residence visa is officially endorsed in the maid’s passport. In addition, health and accident insurance is now a legal requirement for all domestic workers in Dubai. Finally, the sponsor must pay a refundable deposit usually AED 2,000, which can be reclaimed upon visa cancellation or repatriation, as long as all terms are met.
These combined fees typically bring the total to around AED 6,000 to AED 8,000 during the first year.
3. Maid Visa Validity and Renewal Duration
A maid visa in Dubai is generally valid for one year. It must be renewed annually before the expiry date to maintain legal status. Renewal is a straightforward process compared to the first-time application and mainly requires updated medical test results, Emirates ID renewal, and visa stamping. Renewing on time is extremely important because late renewals can lead to daily fines starting from AED 25 per day after the expiration date. Most renewals are completed within three to five working days, depending on how quickly the sponsor submits documents and completes the required health check.
4. Renewal Costs and Annual Expenses
The renewal of a maid visa typically costs between AED 2,000 and AED 3,000. This includes the annual medical fitness test, Emirates ID renewal, visa stamping, insurance renewal, and typing fees. Sponsors may also need to pay small administrative charges for document attestation or delivery. If express or urgent processing is requested, there may be additional service fees of AED 100–200. These costs are optional and depend on how quickly the sponsor needs the renewal completed.
5. Optional and Refundable Costs
Some expenses related to the maid visa are refundable or optional. The AED 2,000 deposit is refundable once the visa is cancelled properly and all exit documents are verified. Sponsors may also incur small costs for contract attestation or optional document printing, which are usually inexpensive. It is advisable to keep digital copies of all receipts and documents to simplify renewals, cancellations, or refund requests later.
6. Practical Tips to Save Time and Cost
Sponsors can reduce expenses and delays by following a few simple practices:
- Always renew the visa at least two weeks before it expires.
- Complete applications through authorized GDRFA typing centers to avoid overcharging.
- Choose comprehensive insurance packages for better coverage.
- Keep track of all expiry dates for visas, IDs, and insurance in a digital log.
These small steps ensure compliance and prevent unnecessary fines or last-minute complications.
The total cost of sponsoring a maid visa in Dubai depends on multiple factors, including government fees, insurance type, and the use of professional assistance. For most sponsors, the initial cost falls between AED 6,000 and AED 8,000, while annual renewals are much lower, averaging AED 2,000 to AED 3,000. The visa is valid for one year and must be renewed regularly to stay compliant with UAE labor and residency laws. For detailed guidance on documentation, visa procedures, or typing services in Dubai, you can refer to SH Typing Center, a trusted information resource for residents and businesses across the UAE.