Sponsoring a domestic worker in the UAE involves several one-time and recurring costs. The total depends on the worker's nationality, whether you use an agency, and your emirate. Here's a complete breakdown to help you budget accurately.
One-Time Visa Costs (per worker)
| Cost Item | AED (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Entry permit (visa) | 570 – 1,200 |
| Medical fitness test | 200 – 350 |
| Emirates ID | 370 – 470 |
| Residence visa stamping | 520 – 720 |
| Work permit (MoHRE) | 300 – 500 |
| Medical insurance (annual) | 600 – 1,500 |
| Agency fees (if applicable) | 5,000 – 12,000 |
| Total (without agency) | ~2,500 – 4,700 |
| Total (with agency) | ~8,500 – 17,000 |
Recurring Annual Costs
Beyond the initial visa, you'll need to budget for annual renewals and mandatory expenses:
| Annual Cost | AED (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Medical insurance renewal | 600 – 1,500 |
| Emirates ID renewal (every 2-3 yrs) | 370 – 470 |
| Visa renewal (every 2 years) | 1,500 – 2,500 |
The Hidden Cost: Fines for Late Renewal
⚠️ Avoid AED 50/day fines
- Residence visa overstay: AED 50 per day — no cap
- Emirates ID expired: AED 20 per day, capped at AED 1,000
A 3-month visa overstay = AED 4,500 in fines on top of renewal fees. Calculate your fine →
Tips to Reduce Costs
- Apply directly through AMER centers or GDRFA instead of agencies to save AED 5,000–12,000.
- Track expiry dates and renew on time — even 1 month of fines can cost more than the renewal itself.
- Compare insurance providers — DHA-approved plans for domestic workers start from AED 600/year.
- Use ManzilZen to get automatic 60/30/7-day alerts before any document expires — free to start.
Fees are approximate and subject to change. Always verify current fees on GDRFA, ICP, and MoHRE.