The UAE places significant importance on adhering to its labour laws to ensure the rights and well-being of all parties. However, hiring nannies or maids with their own visas remains a common yet illegal practice. In this article, we shed light on why it happens, the associated risks, the role of social media, and legal alternatives for hiring domestic help.
Is It Illegal to Hire a Nanny or Maid with Their Own Visa?
Yes, it is illegal in the UAE to hire a domestic worker who is on their own visa without the proper employment permits. Workers must be sponsored by the family employing them or hired through authorised agencies.
What about a Freelance Visa, NOC, or Husband Visa?
Freelance Visa: A freelance visa is valid only for specific professions and does not cover domestic work. Hiring a worker on a freelance visa for household help is also illegal.
No Objection Certificate (NOC): An NOC from the sponsor doesn’t authorise legal work for another employer without official permits.
Husband Visa: Workers on a husband visa can legally reside in the UAE but must still obtain work permits to be employed.
Why Does This Happen?
Despite the legal restrictions, some families continue this practice for perceived benefits:
Cost Savings: Families can avoid sponsorship-related expenses like visa fees, insurance, and agency charges.
Flexibility: Hiring someone with their own visa can be seen as offering more adaptable working hours and arrangements.
Ease of Access: With many workers advertising their services on social media platforms, connecting with potential hires can be quick, easy and informal.
The Role of Social Media and Associated Risks
In many cases, domestic workers with their own visas turn to social media platforms to advertise their services. Facebook groups, Instagram accounts, and WhatsApp community chats have become informal marketplaces where nannies and maids connect with potential employers. For workers, social media can serve as a fast and effective way to find employment and diversify their client base.
However, these informal channels are fraught with risks. Scams are common, with individuals—on both sides—facing fraudulent offers or untrustworthy arrangements. Families may end up hiring someone with falsified documents or credentials, while workers can fall prey to exploitative or unsafe employment conditions. Additionally, such arrangements remain illegal and unregulated, leaving both employers and workers vulnerable to legal and personal risks.
Legal Risks to Families
For families, the legal consequences of hiring a nanny or maid on their own visa can be severe. The penalties range from fines of AED 50,000 to AED 200,000, depending on the severity of the offense. Repeated violations can lead to even harsher repercussions.
Beyond the financial consequences, families also lack legal protection in disputes, such as if the worker were to leave suddenly or if there were an accident. Operating outside the legal framework removes any recourse for resolving issues, exposing families to unnecessary complications.
Benefits and Challenges for Domestic Workers
From the worker’s perspective, being on their own visa can seem advantageous. It often allows for greater autonomy, enabling them to work for multiple families or set their own terms. Social media has made this even easier, increasing their visibility and offering more opportunities.
However, this autonomy comes at a price. Working without the necessary permits puts the worker at constant risk of fines and deportation. Furthermore, they lack the legal protections that a formal employment arrangement would provide, leaving them vulnerable to exploitation or unfair treatment.
Exploring Legal Alternatives
For families seeking part-time help, hiring through a licensed agency is the safest and most lawful option. Agencies provide trained professionals on a part-time basis, ensuring that all legal, medical, and training requirements are met.
Conclusion
While social media has become a popular tool for domestic workers to find jobs, the associated risks and illegality cannot be overstated. Families are encouraged to hire through registered agencies or sponsor their workers to ensure compliance with UAE laws. This approach protects not only the family but also upholds the rights and dignity of domestic workers.
By making informed and lawful choices, you can avoid legal pitfalls and contribute to a fairer and safer domestic labour ecosystem in the UAE.
For more information, contact www.thenannywhisperers.com.
