Maid Visa Cost in the UAE (2026): Government vs Service Fees

Hiring a maid or nanny is a big step for many UAE families. One of the first questions people ask is simple: how much does a maid visa cost? The honest answer is that there is no single number. The total depends on your emirate, your sponsor category, the worker's situation, and the fees the authorities apply on the day you apply.

This guide explains what the cost is made of, so you can plan with confidence and avoid surprises.

Two kinds of cost: government fees and service fees

Every maid visa has two parts to its cost:

• Government fees. These are paid to UAE authorities, such as MOHRE (for the work permit and contract) and ICP or GDRFA in Dubai (for the entry permit, residence and Emirates ID). They are set by the government and can change.
• Service fees. These are charged by the company that prepares and submits your application. In the UAE, domestic worker work permits are handled through MOHRE-licensed Tadbeer centres, so a provider like us works through licensed partners.

When you compare quotes, always ask which part is government fees and which part is the service fee. A clear provider will show you both.

The cost components, step by step

A typical maid visa moves through several stages. Each stage can carry its own fee.

1. Work permit and contract

The domestic worker work permit and the standard contract are issued by MOHRE through a licensed Tadbeer centre. The fee depends on the case, for example whether the worker is coming from abroad or is already in the UAE.

2. Entry permit or status change

If the worker is outside the UAE, an entry permit is needed so they can travel in. If the worker is already inside the country, a change of status may be possible instead. These carry different fees.

3. Medical fitness test

Every domestic worker must pass a medical fitness test at an approved centre. The fee can vary by emirate and by how fast you need the result.

4. Emirates ID

The worker needs an Emirates ID, which includes a biometrics appointment. The fee depends on the validity period of the card.

5. Health insurance

Health insurance is required in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, and it is wise everywhere. The premium depends on the insurer and the plan you choose.

6. Residence visa stamping

The final stage is the residence visa itself. Domestic worker residence is usually issued for 2 years, though some sponsor categories may differ. We confirm the validity for your case.

Why we do not publish one fixed price

You may see websites with a single "all-in" price. Be careful. Government fees can change, and different cases follow different routes. A price that is right for one family can be wrong for another.

Instead, we give you a written estimate for your specific case before you pay anything. It lists each government fee as an estimate and shows our service fee separately. Our service fee is confirmed on WhatsApp before you pay.

Things that can change your total

Here are the most common factors that move the total up or down:

• Your emirate. Fees and insurance rules differ between emirates.
• Inside or outside the UAE. Status change and entry permits are priced differently.
• Urgent processing. Faster medical or typing options may cost more.
• Insurance plan. Basic and enhanced plans have different premiums.
• Fines or old files. If the worker has an old visa, an overstay, or an open file, there may be extra charges to clear first.

Sponsor requirements to check first

Before you think about cost, make sure you can sponsor. Common requirements include:

• A valid UAE residence visa and Emirates ID (for expatriate sponsors)
• Proof of housing, such as a tenancy contract or title deed
• A salary certificate and recent bank statements
• Meeting the minimum income rules set by the authorities

Minimum income rules apply, and they can differ by sponsor type. We check yours before you start. The worker usually needs to be between 18 and 60 years old and medically fit.

How to avoid surprise costs

• Ask for a written, itemised estimate before you pay.
• Check whether insurance is included or separate.
• Confirm whether the worker has any old UAE file.
• Keep copies of all receipts from government portals.
• Never pay cash to anyone who cannot explain each fee.

How Roam Routes can help

Roam Routes is a private service provider. We do not issue visas, and approval is always decided by UAE authorities. What we do is make the process easier:

• Send us your details on WhatsApp (+971 58 211 4029) or start your online application on our website.
• Upload your documents securely. There is no need to visit an office.
• We check your eligibility, explain each step, and arrange the work permit through licensed Tadbeer partners.
• You get a written estimate of government fees, and our service fee is confirmed on WhatsApp before you pay.

This guide is general information, not legal advice. Rules and fees are set by UAE authorities and can change; we confirm the current requirements for your case before you apply.