Hiring domestic help, such as a nanny or maid, has become a common practice for many families in Sharjah and across the United Arab Emirates. With busy lifestyles and dual-income households, the need for trusted household support is growing rapidly. However, employing a nanny or maid in Sharjah requires following legal procedures and applying for the appropriate visa. This guide provides a detailed breakdown of how to apply for a nanny visa or maid visa in Sharjah, the eligibility requirements, associated costs, and step-by-step procedures to ensure a smooth application process.
Understanding the Nanny or Maid Visa in Sharjah
A nanny visa or maid visa in Sharjah is essentially a domestic worker residency permit issued under the sponsorship of the employer (commonly the head of the household). The visa allows the worker to live and work legally in the UAE as a nanny, maid, housekeeper, or domestic helper.
This type of visa falls under the domestic worker category, which is regulated by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) and the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in Sharjah. It is important to understand that the sponsoring family is legally responsible for the domestic worker throughout the validity of the visa.
Who Can Sponsor a Nanny or Maid in Sharjah?
Not everyone living in Sharjah can hire a maid or nanny. There are specific eligibility conditions for sponsorship:
- Minimum Salary Requirement – The sponsor (employer) should meet a minimum monthly income requirement, often around AED 6,000–7,000 (exact figures may vary). This ensures the family can afford to provide accommodation, food, and salary to the nanny or maid.
- Family Status – The sponsor must usually be the head of the family (husband or wife) and provide proof of family status. Bachelors are generally not permitted to sponsor domestic workers.
- Valid Residency – The sponsor must hold a valid UAE residence visa and Emirates ID.
- Accommodation – The sponsor should provide proper living arrangements for the domestic worker, which is a legal requirement.
Eligibility Criteria for the Nanny or Maid
Alongside the sponsor’s eligibility, there are also criteria for the worker:
- Age: The domestic worker must typically be between 18 to 60 years old.
- Nationality: Nannies and maids are often hired from countries like the Philippines, India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Nepal, and Indonesia, but approval depends on bilateral agreements between the UAE and the worker’s home country.
- Health Requirements: The worker must undergo and pass medical fitness tests for infectious diseases like HIV, hepatitis, and tuberculosis.
- Clear Background: A clean criminal record and valid passport are essential.
Required Documents for a Nanny or Maid Visa in Sharjah
To apply for a nanny or maid visa, the sponsor needs to gather the following documents:
From the Sponsor:
- Valid UAE residence visa and Emirates ID.
- Passport copy.
- Salary certificate or labour contract as proof of income.
- Tenancy contract as proof of accommodation.
- Latest utility bills.
- Marriage certificate (to prove family status).
From the Worker:
- Valid passport with at least six months validity.
- Passport-size photographs.
- Entry permit (if coming from outside the UAE).
- Medical fitness certificate from an approved UAE health centre.
Step-by-Step Process of Applying for a Nanny or Maid Visa in Sharjah
Applying for a nanny or maid visa involves multiple stages. Here’s the detailed process:
1. Entry Permit Application
If the nanny or maid is outside the UAE, the first step is to apply for an entry permit. This allows the worker to legally enter Sharjah. The entry permit can be applied through authorized typing centres or online portals managed by GDRFA Sharjah.
2. Medical Fitness Test
Upon arrival in the UAE, the domestic worker must undergo a mandatory medical examination at an authorized health centre. The medical test checks for communicable diseases. Only after passing this test can the visa process continue.
3. Emirates ID Registration
The worker must apply for an Emirates ID at a Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA) centre. Biometric data such as fingerprints and photographs will be recorded.
4. Residency Visa Stamping
Once the medical results and Emirates ID application are complete, the sponsor can apply for the residence visa stamping on the worker’s passport. This confirms the worker’s legal status in the UAE as a nanny or maid.
5. Labour Contract and Work Permit
A labour contract needs to be prepared and signed by both the sponsor and the worker. This outlines the terms of employment, salary, working hours, leave entitlements, and other obligations. The work permit will then be issued by MOHRE.
Costs Involved in a Nanny or Maid Visa in Sharjah
The cost of sponsoring a nanny or maid can vary depending on the origin of the worker, medical tests, Emirates ID, and visa stamping fees. In general, the expenses may include:
- Visa processing fees.
- Medical fitness test fees.
- Emirates ID fees.
- Typing and application service charges.
- Yearly renewal fees.
On average, the total cost for sponsoring a nanny or maid can range between AED 5,000 and AED 7,000, excluding the worker’s monthly salary and accommodation expenses.
Salary Guidelines for Nannies and Maids in Sharjah
The UAE does not impose a fixed salary for domestic workers, but wages depend on nationality, experience, and mutual agreement between sponsor and worker. For instance:
- Filipino maids typically earn between AED 1,500–2,000 per month.
- Indian, Bangladeshi, and Nepalese maids may earn slightly lower salaries, starting around AED 1,200–1,800.
- Experienced nannies with childcare or teaching backgrounds may command higher salaries.
Salaries must be paid regularly, usually on a monthly basis, and additional benefits such as food, accommodation, and medical coverage are the sponsor’s responsibility.
Renewal of Nanny or Maid Visa
A nanny or maid visa is typically valid for one year and must be renewed annually. The renewal process is similar to the initial application, including:
- Renewal application through GDRFA or authorized centres.
- Medical test (if required).
- Emirates ID renewal.
- Payment of renewal fees.
Failing to renew the visa on time can result in penalties and legal issues for the sponsor.
Responsibilities of the Sponsor
Employing a nanny or maid in Sharjah comes with responsibilities for the sponsor:
- Timely Salary Payment – Salaries should be paid on time, and proof of payment may be required.
- Health Insurance – Providing medical coverage for the worker is mandatory.
- Safe Accommodation – The sponsor must provide safe and adequate housing.
- Legal Contract – A clear employment contract must be in place to avoid disputes.
- Visa and Permit Renewals – Sponsors are responsible for keeping the worker’s documents valid and updated.
Tips for a Smooth Process
- Always ensure documents are complete before submitting applications.
- Use authorized typing centres in Sharjah for accuracy in paperwork.
- Maintain copies of all contracts, receipts, and approvals for reference.
- Communicate clearly with the nanny or maid about expectations, duties, and entitlements.
Conclusion
Applying for a nanny visa Dubai or maid visa in Sharjah is a structured process that requires careful attention to eligibility, documentation, and legal responsibilities. From obtaining an entry permit to visa stamping and labour contracts, each step is essential to ensure compliance with UAE laws. While the process may seem lengthy, following the proper procedure protects both the sponsor and the domestic worker, ensuring a smooth working relationship.
By meeting all requirements and maintaining transparency, families in Sharjah can hire reliable domestic support while providing a secure, lawful, and fair employment environment for their nannies and maids.
