Sponsoring a domestic worker in the UAE involves several steps, each with associated costs. These costs can vary based on the emirate, the specific services chosen, and the agency involved. This article breaks down the typical expenses a sponsor can expect.
Government Fees for Visa and Residency
The core of the sponsorship process involves government fees for the entry permit, visa stamping, and residency. These fees are set by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) and can be paid through various government channels or typing centres.
- Entry Permit (E-Visa): This is the initial permit allowing the domestic worker to enter the UAE. The cost for an entry permit typically ranges from AED 200 to AED 300, depending on whether it's a new application or a change of status. As of early 2024, an urgent processing option may incur higher fees.
- Visa Stamping and Residency Permit: Once the domestic worker is in the UAE, the entry permit is converted into a residency visa. This involves a medical fitness test, Emirates ID application, and visa stamping. The combined fees for visa stamping and the residency permit generally fall between AED 1,000 and AED 2,000 for a two-year visa. This figure can vary slightly based on the service centre used and any additional express services requested.
Medical Examination
All domestic workers must undergo a mandatory medical fitness examination to obtain their residency visa. This test screens for communicable diseases such as HIV, Tuberculosis, and Hepatitis B.
- Medical Fitness Test: The cost for the standard medical examination is typically around AED 300 to AED 400. This is conducted at government-approved medical centres. Faster processing options, if available, may increase this cost.
- Health Card/Insurance: While not always a separate fee from the medical test itself, some emirates or specific visa categories might have an associated health card fee or require basic health insurance as part of the visa process. This can range from AED 100 to AED 500 annually.
Emirates ID
The Emirates ID card is a mandatory identity document for all residents of the UAE. The cost is usually integrated into the residency visa application process.
- Emirates ID Fee: For a two-year residency visa, the Emirates ID fee is typically around AED 270. This covers the card's issuance and validity period.
Security Deposit
A refundable security deposit is often required by the government when sponsoring a domestic worker. This deposit acts as a guarantee.
- Security Deposit: This amount can vary significantly, often ranging from AED 2,000 to AED 3,000. It is usually refunded upon the cancellation of the domestic worker's visa and their departure from the UAE, provided all obligations are met.
Recruitment Agency Fees
Many sponsors choose to use a recruitment agency to manage the entire visa process, including sourcing a suitable domestic worker and handling the paperwork. Agency fees are a significant variable cost.
- Agency Service Fees: These fees cover the agency's services, which can include recruitment, travel arrangements, initial medical checks in the home country, and processing of visa documents. Agency fees can range from AED 5,000 to AED 15,000 or more, depending on the agency, the nationality of the domestic worker, and the extent of services provided. Some agencies might offer packages that include airfare or initial accommodation.
Airfare
The cost of airfare for the domestic worker to travel to the UAE is typically borne by the sponsor.
- Air Ticket: The price of an air ticket varies greatly depending on the country of origin, the airline, and the time of booking. This cost can range from AED 1,000 to AED 3,000 or more for an economy class ticket.
Other Potential Costs
- Typing Centre Fees: When processing documents at government typing centres, there are usually small service fees of AED 50 to AED 100 per transaction.
- Translation Services: If any documents require translation into Arabic, additional fees will apply.
Total Cost Summary
Due to the variable nature of agency fees, airfare, and specific government charges that can differ by emirate and service options, providing a single fixed total is not possible. However, sponsors can expect the total cost for a new domestic worker visa, including agency fees and all government charges, to range broadly from AED 9,000 to AED 25,000+ for a two-year visa. This estimate includes the refundable security deposit, which should be factored into the initial outlay.
It is advisable to request a detailed, itemised quote from any recruitment agency and to confirm all government fees with official sources or typing centres before proceeding.
