Can UAE Golden Visa holders sponsor maids
Since its inception in 2019, The UAE Golden Visa system has revolutionised residency in the UAE, offering long-term opportunities to a broad spectrum of individuals, from investors and entrepreneurs to specialised talents and researchers. Designed to enhance the UAE’s position as a conducive environment for high-potential individuals, it also caters to the everyday needs of its holders, including the ability to sponsor domestic workers. This article examines the nuanced regulatory framework that Golden Visa holders must navigate to sponsor maids in the UAE, detailing the relevant procedures, required documentation, and associated legalities to ensure compliance and uphold the rights of domestic staff.
Can a Golden Visa holder sponsor maids?
In the UAE, Golden Visa holders are granted the flexibility to sponsor an unlimited number of domestic workers. This privilege is detailed under the new UAE Domestic Worker Law (Federal Decree-Law No.9 of 2022), which categorises domestic workers as individuals performing household services under the direction and supervision of their employers. These roles include, but are not limited to, positions such as maids, nannies, cooks, and drivers. This law aims to provide a clear framework for the employment and management of domestic workers, ensuring their rights and responsibilities are well-defined within the household employment sector.
Legal Framework for Sponsorship
The UAE prescribes a clear legal framework for the sponsorship of domestic workers by expatriates. These laws stipulate that a sponsor must be a resident with a stable income, ensuring the well-being of the domestic worker. For Golden Visa holders, the regulations extend additional privileges: they are permitted to sponsor an unlimited number of domestic workers. This reflects the UAE’s acknowledgment of the unique needs of Golden Visa residents. Despite this latitude, Golden Visa holders must still comply with the broader legal expectations set forth for all residents, maintaining responsibility for the livelihood and legal status of their domestic employees.
Process for Sponsoring Maids by Golden Visa Holders
When sponsoring a domestic worker under a Golden Visa in the UAE, the process encompasses several key steps designed to ensure both legal compliance and the well-being of the worker. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of the procedure:
- Documentation Preparation: Collect all necessary documents, which include the sponsor’s passport and visa copies, the domestic worker’s passport copy, and proof of the sponsor’s income to establish financial capability for sponsorship.
- Health and Background Checks: Before the application, ensure the domestic worker undergoes required health screenings for conditions like HIV and tuberculosis, as per UAE health regulations. Also, confirm the worker’s legal eligibility for employment, focusing on age and background.
- Application Process: Fill out the sponsorship application form, which can be obtained and processed at any authorised typing centre across the UAE. This form must be submitted along with the specified fee of AED 218.
- Fees and Deposits: Pay the necessary fees, which include an annual UAE Immigration fee of AED 5520 and the cost for mandatory medical insurance, approximately AED 700. Additionally, a refundable deposit of AED 2000 is required to further process the application.
- Entry Permit and Residency Visa: Upon approval of the application, secure an entry permit for your domestic worker, allowing them to legally enter the UAE. Following their arrival, you will need to initiate the residency visa application process. This involves a medical fitness test, registration for an Emirates ID, and visa stamping on the passport.
- Contract and Legal Rights: Draft a labour contract outlining the terms of employment, including salary, job duties, benefits, and other conditions. This contract ensures that both parties are aware of their rights and responsibilities, aligning with UAE’s labour laws to protect the worker’s rights.
- Orientation and Training: Provide an orientation for the domestic worker to familiarise them with UAE’s laws, cultural norms, and their specific duties. If required, arrange for any job-specific training to ensure they are fully prepared for their role.
- Visa Renewal and Cancellation: Keep track of the visa and Emirates ID renewal dates to maintain the legal status of your domestic worker in the UAE. Understand the process for visa cancellation and repatriation, should it be necessary, to ensure compliance with UAE immigration laws.
By following these detailed steps, sponsors can effectively manage the legal and practical aspects of employing a domestic worker under a Golden Visa in the UAE, ensuring a smooth and compliant integration into their household. The process can take several weeks, and sponsors should monitor the status and be prepared for potential interviews or additional requests from authorities.
Rights and Responsibilities
Under UAE labor laws, domestic workers have the right to a safe working environment, regular rest periods, and adequate leave. Specifically, they are entitled to 12 hours of rest daily, including 8 consecutive hours, and 30 days of paid vacation every two years. As sponsors, Golden Visa holders have financial, legal, and ethical responsibilities to ensure these rights are upheld. This includes timely wage payment, providing medical insurance, and respecting the minimum wage requirements based on the maid’s nationality. Sponsors should be diligent, ensuring they meet all conditions to foster a fair and legal employment relationship.
Challenges and considerations
Golden Visa holders may face challenges such as navigating the complex sponsorship process, understanding the legal rights of domestic workers, and ensuring compliance with the varied minimum wage requirements for maids from different countries. To mitigate these challenges, it is advisable to seek services from accredited legal and consulting firms that specialise in UAE immigration and labour laws. These professionals can provide up-to-date advice, assist with paperwork, and ensure that all processes are handled efficiently, adhering to the latest regulations. Additionally, engaging with a reputable agency for the recruitment of domestic workers can also streamline the sponsorship process, ensuring that all legal and health criteria are meticulously met.
How can Global Link help?
Global Link has over 16 years’ experience working with local and global businesses, providing bespoke consultancy services for company incorporation in Dubai and the wider UAE.
We can guide Golden Visa holders through the process of sponsoring domestic workers in the UAE, ensuring compliance with all local regulations. Our services include selecting the appropriate visa category, preparing and submitting all necessary documentation, and liaising with UAE immigration authorities to facilitate a smooth and timely approval process.
If you need advice on this or for any other company incorporation, visa or PRO service, please get in touch with us on +971 4 553 9901 or email us at [email protected] and we will be happy to assist you.