Do you want to take your nanny or maid on holiday when you are visiting the UK? If so, you can apply for an overseas domestic worker visa.
Eligibility Criteria for the Visa
Worker Requirements
To apply, the worker must:
- Be a domestic worker (e.g., cleaner, chauffeur, cook, personal care provider, or nanny) in a private household.
- Be over the age of 19.
- Have worked for the employer for a minimum of 12 months at the time of making the application.
Financial Requirements
- The worker must be able to support themselves in the UK without public funds.
- The employer must pay the worker at least the UK national minimum wage during their stay in the UK.
Employer Eligibility to Accompany the Worker
The worker can apply to travel with the employer if the employer is:
- A British citizen who usually resides outside the UK and does not plan to stay in the UK for more than 6 months.
- A foreign citizen coming to the UK on a visit who also does not plan to stay for more than 6 months.
Application Process
Required Documents
To apply, the worker must complete the online application form and provide the following documents:
- Passport.
- Any work visas from the worker’s country of application.
- Proof of financial self-support during the entire trip (e.g., bank statements, salary slips).
- A statement completed by the worker and employer.
- The worker’s contract of employment.
- A letter from the employer confirming the worker’s job title and length of employment.
Visa Decision and Duration of Stay
Once a decision is made:
- The worker may visit the UK with their employer for up to 6 months.
- This visa cannot be extended.
- Both the worker and employer must return to their country of residence before or upon completing the 6 months.
Important Application Timelines
- The visa application can be made up to 3 months before the intended travel date.
- Decisions are typically provided within 3 weeks, pending correct application submission, document verification, or interview requirements.
Important Note
The above is a general commentary on the subject matter and should not be taken as specific legal advice. Laws, rules, regulations, and requirements may change. Updated information should be sought before making any application.
For specific advice on an Overseas Domestic Worker visa for the UK or any other UK immigration matters, please contact our UK Immigration Lawyers in Dubai.
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Head of Family Law / Senior Consultant