Guide · UAE work visa
Dubai Work Visa from Kenya for Domestic Workers
For domestic jobs we recruit for in Dubai and the rest of the UAE, the employer provides the visa. Here is what Smartmaids Group handles, what you need to provide, and how long it takes.
Who provides the visa?
The employer provides the work visa. You do not apply for it on your own: once you are selected for a job, our team in Nairobi handles the process with the employer.
What Smartmaids Group handles
- Work permit applications
- Residence visa processing
- Document attestation
- Medical check-up coordination
- Employment contract preparation
What you need to provide
- Valid passport with at least 2 years remaining
- Recent passport-sized photographs
- Police Clearance Certificate
- Medical Examination Certificate
- Professional certificate, where applicable
- Studio video introduction (requested after your application is reviewed)
- For the UAE, your Police Clearance Certificate must be attested — we will guide you
How long it takes
Initial screening of your application takes 2–3 business days. If you are selected, visa processing and placement typically take 4–8 weeks, depending on the UAE’s requirements at the time and how ready your documents are.
After the visa
First-time workers receive pre-departure orientation. Flights are booked, travel insurance is arranged and airport pickup is coordinated. All jobs are full live-in, and the employer provides accommodation, food and medical insurance, plus a return ticket when you complete your full contract.
Next: check the requirements to work in Dubai or apply online.
FAQ
Dubai work visa: common questions
Who provides the Dubai work visa for domestic workers?
The employer provides the visa. For selected candidates, Smartmaids Group handles the work permit application, residence visa processing, document attestation, medical check-up coordination and the employment contract.
How long does a Dubai work visa take from Kenya?
Once a candidate is selected, visa processing and placement typically take 4–8 weeks, depending on the UAE’s requirements at the time and how ready the documents are.
What do I need for the UAE work visa?
A valid passport with at least 2 years remaining, passport-sized photographs, an attested Police Clearance Certificate and a medical examination. Our team tells selected candidates exactly what is needed and when.
Do you also process visas for Qatar and Bahrain?
Yes. We recruit for Qatar and Bahrain as well, and the employer provides the visa there too. For Bahrain you also need a Wafid medical examination.