New Domestic Visa - Step-By-Step Process

Step 1

Opening Sponsor File

Required if sponsor not previously sponsored another dependent or maid. This is the first step required for a maid visa in Dubai

Requires 24 hours for approval-notification will be sent via sms

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Step 2

Entry Permit

You can apply for an entry permit for your Domestic / Worker Deposit Payable for Expats only AED2,000 (you will need your IBAN number for deposit refund)

After typing process Notification of approval will be sent via sms Employment Visa will be sent via email from MOI-GDRFA
(Proceed to Step 3)

if worker is under visit or cancelled visa status.
After typing process Notification of approval will be sent via sms
(Proceed to Step 3)

If worker still has to enter the UAE and you would like the worker to enter the country on an employment visa ( which at this stage is called an entry visa) After typing process Notification of approval will be sent via sms

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Step 3

Change of Status

This is the next step after getting an approval of Entry Permit (Inside country).

You have until the expiry date on the Change of Status document to complete the residency visa application or else your application will be invalid.
The validity of this application is up to 60 days.
Notification will be sent via Email from MOI/GDRFA

Your domestic/household worker cannot leave the country until Residence Visa has been stamped. In case of emergency reasons, Entry Permit application can be cancelled so he/she can leave the country accordingly.

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Step 4

Medical Fitness Test

Medical Fitness Test– As per UAE Law, all domestic and household worker must be “ fit to work” before a residence visa is issued.

Typing must be done prior to the worker going for medical .

Medical Examination must be completed in approved Government Health Centers.

Medical fitness/certificate is valid for 90 days only.

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Step 5

Emirates ID

Emirates ID application is required to get a residence visa approval. Biometrics must be completed if your domestic/household worker is applying for the first time. Validity of this application is as follows:

Medical fitness/certificate is valid for 90 days only.

Biometrics for new applicants must be completed within 10 days from the time Emirates ID application has been generated or else the application will be invalid.

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Step 6

Medical Insurance

Required for all domestic and household workers.


Policy is issued after labour contract is signed, “FIT” medical certificate and Copy of Emirates ID Typing is submitted.

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Step 7

Employment Contract

New Domestic Workers Law 10/2017

Immigration employment contract for year 2017 and 2018 is accepted.

MOHRE employment contract needs to be printed for new visa applications or if the sponsor holds an old contract.

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Step 8

Residency Visa Application

This is the final step in getting a residence visa for your domestic/household worker.

The residence visa stamping/sticker should be available on your worker’s passport once the application has been approved. Validity of the residence visa application is as follows:

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