Relocating from Dubai to the United Kingdom involves much more than booking flights and finding a new home. For many families, keeping the same childcare routine is just as important, especially when children have already formed a strong bond with their nanny.
If you're planning to move with your nanny in Dubai, it's important to understand that UK immigration rules are very different from those in the UAE. Some families may be able to bring their existing nanny. However, the available visa options are limited and have specific eligibility requirements.
This guide explains the main visa option currently available, the basic eligibility requirements, the documents you may need, and the practical steps that can help make your relocation smoother.
🇬🇧 Can You Bring Your Nanny to the UK?
The answer is yes—but only in certain circumstances.
The UK offers an Overseas Domestic Worker (ODW) Visa for eligible domestic workers who accompany their employer during a temporary stay in the UK. This visa is for existing employment relationships. It is not intended for hiring a new nanny after arriving in the UK.
Because immigration rules can change, families should always check the latest official guidance before making travel plans or submitting an application.
💡 Important: Not every family relocating from Dubai will qualify for this visa. Eligibility depends on both the employer's circumstances and the nanny's employment history.
🛂 Understanding the Overseas Domestic Worker Visa
For many families, the Overseas Domestic Worker Visa is the most relevant option when planning a temporary move to the UK with an existing nanny.
This visa generally allows an eligible nanny to accompany her employer and continue working in the same private household during a temporary stay in the UK. Permission is usually granted for up to six months. It is intended for temporary visits, not permanent relocation.
✅ Why families consider this route
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Allows continuity of childcare during relocation.
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Helps children stay with a familiar caregiver.
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Supports families during temporary stays in the UK.
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Allows families to continue an existing employment relationship instead of hiring a new nanny after arrival.
⚠️ Important limitations
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It is generally intended for temporary stays.
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It is not a pathway to permanent residence.
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Families should not assume the visa can be extended or switched to another immigration category after arrival.
👩👧 Basic Eligibility for the Nanny
Although every application is assessed individually, applicants generally need to meet several key requirements.
These usually include:
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✅ Being at least 19 years old.
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✅ Working for the same employer for at least 12 months.
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✅ Travelling to the UK with the employer or their immediate family.
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✅ Continuing to work full-time as a domestic worker in the employer's private household.
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✅ Intending to leave the UK when the authorised stay ends.
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✅ Being able to support themselves without relying on public funds.
👤 Basic Eligibility for the Employer
The employer's circumstances are also an important part of the application.
In general, the Overseas Domestic Worker route is intended for people who normally live outside the UK and are travelling there temporarily with a domestic worker who already works for them.
The employer must also meet the relevant UK immigration requirements.
Because every situation is different, families should always confirm their eligibility before making travel plans or submitting a visa application.
📑 Documents You Should Prepare
Preparing your documents early can make the application process smoother and help avoid unnecessary delays.
Requirements may vary depending on each application. However, families are usually asked to provide documents that confirm the existing employment relationship and support the visa application.
Typical documents may include:
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📄 A valid employment contract.
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🛂 Valid passports and travel documents.
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📝 A letter confirming the existing employment relationship.
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💷 Evidence that the employment conditions meet UK requirements.
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📋 Any additional documents requested as part of the visa application.
The UK government may request additional evidence depending on the application. Families should always check the latest official guidance before applying.
💡 Tip: Avoid leaving document preparation until the last few weeks before your move. Starting early gives you enough time to obtain any additional paperwork if requested.
⚠️ Common Mistakes Families Should Avoid
Many families experience delays because they assume moving with a nanny follows the same process as sponsoring a domestic worker in the UAE.
In reality, UK immigration rules are different. Careful planning is essential.
Some common mistakes include:
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❌ Assuming every nanny is automatically eligible.
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❌ Booking travel before the visa is approved.
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❌ Providing incomplete employment records.
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❌ Relying on outdated immigration information.
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❌ Assuming a temporary visa can automatically become permanent.
Understanding the current rules before making relocation plans can help families avoid unnecessary complications and delays.
🧭 Plan Your Relocation Early
Relocating internationally involves much more than getting a visa.
Families should also plan for housing, schools, healthcare, and travel arrangements. It is equally important to think about how children will adjust to a new environment.
Planning these areas alongside the immigration process can make the transition much smoother.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I take my nanny to the UK permanently?
In most cases, the Overseas Domestic Worker Visa is intended for temporary stays rather than permanent relocation. Families planning a long-term move should review the latest UK immigration rules to see whether another visa option is more suitable.
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How early should I start the visa process?
It is best to start preparing your documents several months before your planned move. This gives you enough time to gather supporting documents, complete the application, and respond to any additional requests from the UK authorities.
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Can I submit the application after arriving in the UK?
No. Applications for the Overseas Domestic Worker Visa must usually be submitted before travelling to the UK. The application process must normally be completed outside the UK.
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Will immigration requirements remain the same?
Not always. UK immigration rules can change over time, including eligibility requirements, supporting documents, application fees, and processing procedures. Families should always check the latest official guidance before making travel plans or applying.
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Where can I learn more about choosing a full-time nanny before relocating?
If you're planning your childcare arrangements before moving abroad, our Full-Time Nanny Services Guide explains how full-time nanny services work, what responsibilities a nanny usually has, and what families should consider before making a long-term childcare decision.
📞 Planning Ahead Makes Relocation Easier
Moving to another country is a major life decision. Bringing your nanny with you also requires careful planning and a clear understanding of the relevant immigration rules.
Planning early, preparing the required documents, and staying up to date with UK visa requirements can help make the relocation process smoother for both your family and your nanny.
If you're exploring childcare options before your move or need help choosing a qualified nanny, Ezee Workers Employment Services Center can help you compare experienced candidates and make informed recruitment decisions before your relocation.
