Mohre Issuance Of New Work Permit For Domestic Workers in UAE 2026
Mohre Issuance Of New Work Permit For Domestic Workers in UAE 2026. Hiring a domestic worker in the UAE requires official approval from the government. The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) manages the process of issuing work permits for domestic workers. Employers who want to hire a housemaid, driver, nanny, cook, or other domestic helper must first obtain a new work permit.
This guide explains the MOHRE issuance of new work permit for domestic workers, including requirements, documents, fees, application steps, and important rules.
What Is MOHRE Issuance of New Work Permit for Domestic Workers?
The issuance of a new work permit for domestic workers is a service provided by the UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation. This service allows employers to legally hire a domestic worker either from inside the UAE or from another country.
A work permit is an official approval that allows a domestic worker to work legally under a specific employer. Without this permit, hiring a domestic worker is not allowed under UAE labour regulations.
Employers can apply for the permit through different channels such as:
- MOHRE official website
- MOHRE smart mobile application
- Authorized service centers
- Government service platforms such as TAMM
The application is reviewed by MOHRE and other government authorities before approval. Once the process is completed, the employer receives an electronic visa for the domestic worker.
Required Documents for Domestic Worker Work Permit
Employers must submit several documents when applying for the permit. Here are the most common required documents.
Employer Documents
- Copy of employer passport
- Emirates ID or valid identification card
- Proof of marital status (marriage certificate)
- Housing proof such as lease contract or property ownership
- Salary certificate confirming minimum family income
- Bank statement for the last three months
The income requirement ensures that the employer can support the worker financially.
Worker Documents
The domestic worker must also provide certain documents.
These include:
- Copy of worker passport
- Color passport photograph
- Tourist visa if the worker is already inside the UAE
- Cancellation of previous visa if applicable
The worker’s passport must remain valid for several months.
Conditions and Requirements For Domestic Worker Work Permit
MOHRE has several conditions that must be met before issuing a permit. Important requirements include:
- Employer passport must be valid
- Resident employers must have a valid residence permit
- Worker must not already hold a valid work permit
- Worker passport must be valid for at least three months
- Worker must be at least 18 years old
- Insurance policy must cover the worker
- Job occupation must match domestic work category
Employers must follow these rules carefully to avoid rejection.
Service Channels for Applying
The UAE government provides several channels for employers to apply for this permit. Employers can submit the application through the following methods:
- MOHRE official website
- MOHRE smart mobile application
- Government service centers
- Tawseel service
- TAMM Abu Dhabi government services platform
Using the online platform is usually faster and easier because the process is digital.
Online Process To Apply For a New Domestic Worker Work Permit
The application process involves several steps. The system verifies documents and checks eligibility before approval. Follow these steps to apply for the permit.
Step 1: Log in to the System
The employer must log in to the MOHRE system using:
- Username and password
- UAE Pass
The UAE Pass allows secure login to government services.
Step 2: Pay Insurance Policy Fees
Before the permit is issued, the employer must pay the insurance policy fee. This insurance protects the domestic worker during employment.
Step 3: Open an Employer File
The employer must open a file with the Ministry if it does not already exist. This file allows the employer to hire workers legally. After opening the file, the employer can request a new entry work permit.
Step 4: Pay Federal Fees
The employer must pay the required government fees. The application will not move forward until payment is completed.
Step 5: Approve Employment Contract
After payment, the employer receives an electronic link. This link allows the employer to approve one of the following:
- Standard employment contract
- Direct recruitment contract
The contract explains the worker’s rights, salary, and working conditions.
Step 6: Application Verification
Once the contract is approved, the application is sent electronically to the Ministry. MOHRE reviews the documents and checks whether the employer meets the requirements.
Step 7: Completion of Missing Information
If any information or document is missing, the Ministry will notify the employer. The employer must submit the missing details to continue the process.
Step 8: Receive Approval or Rejection
The employer receives updates through:
- SMS messages
- Email notifications
The message informs the employer whether the application is approved or rejected.
Step 9: Verification by Federal Authority
If the application is approved, it is sent to the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security. This authority checks immigration compliance.
Step 10: Ministry Seal
After verification, the Ministry places its official seal on the permit.
Step 11: Receive Electronic Visa
Once approved, the electronic visa is sent to the employer’s email address. This visa allows the domestic worker to enter the UAE or start working legally.
Video Guide
Age Limit for Domestic Workers
The UAE government has defined an age rule for domestic workers.
The standard age limit is:
- Minimum age: 18 years
- Maximum age: 60 years
However, there are some exceptions.
If a worker is already inside the UAE and their previous visa was recently cancelled, they may still qualify if the cancellation occurred within three months.
Work Permit Duration
The work permit duration depends on the employer’s status.
Typical durations include:
- Two years for UAE citizens
- Optional one or two years for GCC citizens
- One or two years for diplomats and golden visa holders
- One year for residents
Employers can renew the permit before expiration.
Who Can Apply for a Domestic Worker Work Permit?
Not everyone can apply for a domestic worker permit in the UAE. Only certain categories of people are eligible.
The following people can apply for a new domestic worker work permit:
- UAE citizens
- GCC citizens
- UAE residents
- Investors living in the UAE
- Diplomats and golden visa holders
The service is mainly designed for employers who need domestic workers for household support.
Domestic workers may include:
- Housemaids
- Drivers
- Nannies
- Gardeners
- Cooks
- Caregivers
These workers help families manage daily home activities.
Employment Contract Type
Domestic workers are usually hired under full time employment contracts. The contract includes:
- Salary details
- Working hours
- Accommodation arrangements
- Worker rights
- Employer responsibilities
Both parties must agree to the contract before approval.
Service Completion Time
The process is usually very fast if all documents are correct.
Typical processing time is:
- Around 24 hours to 2 working days
However, delays may occur if documents are missing or incorrect.
Service Fees for Domestic Worker Work Permit
Fees may vary depending on the emirate and permit duration.
General fee range:
- Around AED 215 to AED 265 for permit processing
- Additional insurance charges may apply
Business centers may charge service fees, but these are capped at 72 dirhams.
When using the MOHRE website or smart application, the service itself is free except for government fees.
Employer Responsibilities After Hiring a Domestic Worker
Once the permit is issued, the employer must follow certain responsibilities.
Employers must:
- Pay wages on time
- Provide suitable accommodation
- Cover medical expenses if required
- Respect worker rights
- Follow UAE labour regulations
Wages must usually be paid within 10 days of the due date.
Failure to follow these rules may result in penalties.
How to Track Domestic Worker Work Permit Application
Employers can track their application through several methods.
Available options include:
- MOHRE official website inquiry service
- MOHRE mobile application
- Call center support
- Online chatbot service
Employers can also call 600590000 for assistance.
The system sends updates once the application is completed.
Relationship With Other Government Authorities
The work permit process also involves coordination with other UAE government entities.
One important authority involved is the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security.
This authority verifies immigration records and ensures that workers meet entry requirements.
Why MOHRE Work Permit Is Important
A legal work permit protects both the employer and the domestic worker.
It ensures:
- Legal employment status
- Worker rights protection
- Government compliance
- Safe working environment
Without this permit, domestic work employment may be considered illegal.
Common Reasons for Application Rejection
Some applications may be rejected due to errors or missing documents. Common reasons include:
- Invalid passport
- Missing documents
- Low salary proof
- Worker already holding a valid permit
- Incorrect employment contract
Employers should carefully review the requirements before submitting the application.
Tips For Faster Work Permit Approval
Here are a few tips to help employers avoid delays.
Prepare documents before applying.
Check that:
- Passport copies are clear
- Salary certificate is updated
- Worker passport validity meets requirements
- Insurance policy is active
Submitting complete documents increases the chances of quick approval.
FAQs About MOHRE Issuance of New Work Permit for Domestic Workers
What is the MOHRE issuance of a new work permit for domestic workers?
Ans: The MOHRE issuance of a new work permit for domestic workers is an official service that allows employers in the UAE to hire domestic helpers legally. This permit is issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation. It gives permission for a worker to enter the UAE or start working under a specific employer. Without this permit, hiring a domestic worker is not allowed under UAE labour rules.
Who can apply for a domestic worker work permit in the UAE?
Ans: The application for a domestic worker work permit can be submitted by UAE citizens, GCC nationals, residents, investors, diplomats, and golden visa holders. These individuals must meet the income and housing requirements set by the government. The service is designed for families who need support at home, such as hiring a maid, nanny, cook, driver, or caregiver.
How long does it take to get a new domestic worker work permit?
Ans: In most cases, the process is completed within 24 hours to 2 working days if all documents are correct and complete. The application is first reviewed by MOHRE and then checked by the immigration authority. If there are missing documents or incorrect information, the process may take longer until the employer provides the required details.
What documents are required to apply for a domestic worker work permit?
Ans: Employers must provide several documents when applying for a permit. These usually include a copy of the employer’s passport, Emirates ID, proof of housing, salary certificate, and bank statement. The worker must also provide a valid passport copy and a recent photograph. In some cases, a cancelled visa or tourist visa may also be required if the worker is already inside the UAE.
What is the age requirement for domestic workers in the UAE?
Ans: According to UAE rules, domestic workers must be at least 18 years old to work legally. The usual maximum age limit is 60 years. However, there may be exceptions if the worker is already inside the UAE and their previous domestic worker visa was cancelled recently.
How much does a domestic worker work permit cost in the UAE?
Ans: The cost of issuing a domestic worker work permit is usually between AED 215 and AED 265, depending on the type of service and emirate. Employers may also need to pay insurance policy fees and other administrative charges. However, when applying through the MOHRE website or mobile application, the service itself is free except for the required government fees.
Can a domestic worker be hired from inside the UAE?
Ans: Yes, employers can hire domestic workers who are already inside the UAE. In this case, the worker must provide proof that their previous visa has been cancelled. The employer must then apply for a new work permit through MOHRE and complete the required approval process before the worker can start working legally.
How can employers track their domestic worker permit application?
Ans: Employers can track their application through several official channels. They can check the status on the MOHRE website, use the MOHRE mobile application, contact the call center, or use the chatbot service. Updates are also sent to the employer through SMS messages and email notifications once the application moves forward or gets approved.
What responsibilities does an employer have after hiring a domestic worker?
Ans: After hiring a domestic worker, the employer must follow UAE labour regulations. This includes paying wages on time, providing proper accommodation, and covering necessary medical expenses. Employers must also ensure the worker’s insurance policy remains valid and respect the worker’s rights according to the official employment contract.
What happens after the work permit application is approved?
Ans: Once the application is approved, the system sends an electronic visa to the employer’s registered email address. This visa allows the domestic worker to enter the UAE or begin employment legally. After arrival, the employer may need to complete additional procedures such as medical tests and residence visa processing before the worker starts working permanently.
Conclusion
The MOHRE issuance of new work permit for domestic workers is an important process that allows families in the UAE to hire domestic help legally. The government has created a structured system that protects both employers and workers.
