Hiring a nanny in the UAE isn't just about finding the right person—it's also about doing things the right way. With the proper legal steps, families gain peace of mind, and domestic workers receive the respect and protection they deserve.
This guide walks you through every step of the nanny visa process, including how to sponsor legally, comply with UAE labor laws, and avoid common pitfalls. Whether you're hiring for the first time or transitioning a nanny to your household, this page will help you navigate the system confidently.
Who Can Sponsor a Nanny in the UAE?
In most Emirates, a resident (typically the head of the household) can sponsor a domestic worker—including a nanny—if:
- They are a UAE resident with a valid visa
- Their monthly salary is at least AED 25,000 (Dubai), or AED 6,000–10,000 in some other Emirates or under certain conditions (check local requirements)
- They are married and living with their family
- They have suitable accommodation (Ejari registered in Dubai)
- The nanny is from an approved country (e.g., Philippines, Indonesia, Ethiopia, Sri Lanka, India, Bangladesh)[2][3][14]
ℹ️ You'll typically apply through the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA), a registered Tadbeer center, or a typing center.[10][14][16]
You'll need the following to begin the process:
- Copy of your Emirates ID
- Tenancy contract (Ejari in Dubai)
- Salary certificate or labor contract
- Passport copies (sponsor & nanny)
- Nanny's medical fitness test results
- Attested nanny qualifications (if required)
- Passport-sized photos of the nanny
- Entry permit (if nanny is abroad)
- Marriage certificate (attested, if sponsoring as a family)
- Medical insurance for nanny[2][13][16]
✅ Download: [Nanny Visa Checklist – 2025 Edition] (PDF)
What Are the Costs Involved?
The typical nanny visa costs range between AED 5,000–7,000 per year for most families, but this can vary depending on agency fees and additional services. This amount may include:
- Visa application and processing fees
- Medical examination
- Emirates ID
- Typing center fees
- Security deposit (if applicable, usually refundable)
- Health insurance (mandatory, typically AED 700–1,500 per year)
- Flight ticket (if recruiting from abroad)
- Annual visa renewal fees[4][15][18]
⚡ WeNanny tip: Budget for ~AED 10,000 total in the first year to avoid surprises.
Legal Contract Requirements
Under UAE domestic labor law, the employment contract must include:
- Job title and description (e.g., nanny)
- Monthly salary and payment frequency
- Daily working hours (maximum 8 hours unless mutually agreed otherwise in writing; 12 hours of rest, including 8 consecutive hours)
- One paid day off per week (minimum)
- Paid annual leave (30 days after 12 months of service)
- Paid sick leave (30 days per year)
- End-of-service gratuity after 2 years
- Medical insurance (mandatory)
- Accommodation and meals (for live-in nannies)
- Return flight ticket every two years[5][13][16]
📄 Download Template: [Nanny Employment Contract – UAE Compliant]
Renewal, Transfer, and Exit
Renewal:
- Process is similar to first-time visa, with reduced paperwork
- Must be done before visa expiry to avoid fines
- Requires updated medical insurance and Emirates ID renewal[6][16][18]
Transfer:
- Requires No Objection Certificate (NOC) from previous sponsor
- New sponsor must submit documents within a fixed period
- Medical fitness test and new Emirates ID may be required[7][16]
Exit:
- Sponsor responsible for return flight costs
- All dues (salary, gratuity, leave pay) must be settled
- Visa must be cancelled before nanny departs
- Nanny has 30 days to exit or transfer visa after cancellation[8][13][16]
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Sponsoring a nanny informally without a visa (illegal and risks heavy fines)
- Not providing a formal, written employment contract
- Delaying visa renewal (heavy fines apply)
- Withholding passports (illegal)
- Not providing medical insurance or required leave entitlements[5][12][16]
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the nanny visa process take?
Typically 2–4 weeks if all documents are ready.[14][18]
Can I sponsor a nanny already inside the UAE?
Yes, but a status change will be needed, along with a new medical test and entry permit.[13][16]
Do I need to go through an agency?
No—you can sponsor independently, but using a Tadbeer center or agency may simplify logistics and ensure compliance.[10][14][17]
What happens if the nanny breaks the contract?
If the terms are clearly defined, you may recover part of the visa cost or file a complaint through MOHRE. Both parties must follow the notice period and contract terms.[5][8][16]
Can I sponsor a nanny if I am not the primary breadwinner?
Yes, both male and female residents can sponsor a nanny as long as they meet the income and accommodation requirements.[18]
Let WeNanny Help
WeNanny offers:
- Pre-vetted nannies ready to be sponsored
- Assistance with contracts and legal onboarding
- A free consultation to walk you through the steps
📩 [Schedule a free consultation]
📄 [Download the Full Hiring Toolkit]
WeNanny: Helping families hire confidently — and nannies thrive with dignity.