A domestic worker's UAE residence visa (also known as the maid visa or housemaid visa) is typically issued for 2 years and must be renewed before it expires. This guide provides a complete breakdown of the renewal process, costs, and documents required in 2026.
⚡ Quick Facts
| 📋 Visa Validity | 2 years (standard domestic worker visa) |
| ⏱️ Renew How Early | Up to 60 days before expiry |
| 💰 Renewal Cost | AED 220–570 (visa) + AED 100–370 (Emirates ID) + Medical if required |
| 📱 Apply Via | MOHRE Work Bundle / Tadbeer center |
| ⏱️ Processing | 3–5 business days typically |
| 📞 MOHRE Helpline | 600 590 000 |
⚠️ When Must You Renew?
⚠️ Overstaying a domestic worker's visa in UAE is a serious violation. Residence visa holders get a 30-day grace period after expiry; after that, overstay fines of AED 50 per day apply (u.ae). Renew at least 30 days before the expiry date to avoid any fines.
📋 Required Documents for Renewal
- Employer's Emirates ID — valid copy
- Employer's passport — valid copy
- Domestic worker's passport — valid for at least 6 months beyond renewal date
- Current residence visa — copy of existing visa to be renewed
- Medical fitness examination — new medical test may be required
- Medical insurance — valid insurance policy (mandatory in Dubai and Abu Dhabi)
- MOHRE employment contract — valid and current
💰 Renewal Costs 2026
| Fee Component | Cost (AED) |
|---|---|
| Residence Visa Renewal | AED 220 – 570 |
| Emirates ID Renewal | AED 100 – 370 |
| Medical Fitness Test (if required) | AED 320 – 500 |
| Medical Insurance Annual | AED 500 – 1,500 |
| Tadbeer Full Renewal Package | AED 1,500 – 3,500 |
🔄 Renewal Methods
📱 Via MOHRE Work Bundle App (Recommended)
Passport, Emirates ID, medical insurance, medical test.
Pay all fees in one transaction.
Receive updates via app notification.
Digital visa available in app once approved.
🏛️ Via Tadbeer Center
Find nearest at gccdomestic.com
They handle all government submissions.
Tadbeer arranges through approved health centers.
One inclusive payment covers everything.
Visa sticker + new Emirates ID delivered.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Does the domestic worker need to be present for visa renewal?
The worker needs to be present for biometric update (if required) and Emirates ID renewal, but not for all document submissions.
Can I renew the maid visa if she travelled home?
If the worker is outside UAE at visa expiry, the visa cannot be renewed — she must return on a new entry permit. Plan renewals while the worker is inside UAE.
What if the medical test fails?
If the domestic worker fails their medical fitness test during renewal, the visa cannot be renewed. Discuss options with MOHRE or your Tadbeer center regarding replacement or medical treatment.
Is there a grace period after visa expiry?
Residence visa holders, domestic workers included, get a 30-day grace period after the visa expires; once it ends, overstay fines of AED 50 per day apply. Renew before the expiry date rather than counting on the grace period.
Can I switch domestic workers during renewal?
You can change domestic workers — cancel the old work permit and apply for a new one for the replacement worker through MOHRE or a Tadbeer center.
🏠 Find a MOHRE-Verified Tadbeer Center Near You
GCC Domestic has the most complete directory of 143+ MOHRE-approved Tadbeer centers across the UAE. Compare centers, view WhatsApp contacts, and hire legally — zero commission.
📌 Source: MOHRE UAE Official Website — Updated 2026. Always verify latest requirements at mohre.gov.ae.
