Approximately 8.7 million expatriates reside in the United Arab Emirates, many of whom would consider their lives incomplete without their families. Recognizing that, the UAE government allows expatriates to sponsor residence visas for their families.
Sponsoring a family visa involves several eligibility requirements and a structured application process. While it’s accessible to everyone, a smooth process may require professional assistance to remove any possible obstacles from the way.
Understanding UAE Family Visa
A family visa enables expatriates residing in the UAE to sponsor their immediate family members to reside with them in the country legally. The immediate family includes spouse, children, and in some cases, parents. The eligibility criteria for the sponsor include salary requirements and documentation.
The General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) is the major authority in the visa processing. You can conduct the process yourself or hire professionals such as IBG Consultancy to help make the process smoother and quicker.
Who Can Be Sponsored Under a Family Visa in the UAE?
You can sponsor different family members based on your requirements. Minor details or requirements may change based on the relationship. Here are the details for each relationship a family visa can sponsor:
Wife
A husband can sponsor his wife if he earns the minimum salary required (usually AED 4,000 to AED 5,000 per month). The husband must show proof of marriage, like a marriage certificate. The wife’s visa is usually valid for 1 to 3 years and can be renewed.
Husband
A wife can also sponsor her husband, but she must meet the salary rule (often higher than for men, usually AED 10,000 or more). Some jobs are not allowed, so it depends on the case. A valid marriage certificate is also needed.
Children (Son and Daughter)
Sons: You can sponsor your son if he is under 18 years old. After 18, he can be sponsored only if he is studying in the UAE or abroad. In that case, you can usually sponsor him until age 21. Proof of study is required.
Daughters: You can sponsor your daughter at any age as long as she is not married. If she gets married, she cannot be sponsored anymore by her parents.
Newborn Baby
Babies born in the UAE (son or daughter) can easily be sponsored. A residence visa must be applied within 120 days after birth. A birth certificate and a passport are needed.
Stepchildren
You can sponsor your stepchild (wife’s or husband’s child from another marriage), but you need special approval. You must also show that you have permission from the other parent. The visa is usually valid for 1 year and must be renewed yearly.
Parents
You can sponsor your parents if you meet the salary rule (usually AED 20,000 or more). You must also show that you have a home with enough space. A medical insurance plan for both parents is required. Usually, you must sponsor both parents together, not just one.
Steps to Sponsor a UAE Family Visa in Dubai – UAE
Step 1: Check if You Qualify
First, make sure you meet the conditions:
- You have a valid UAE residence visa.
- You earn enough money (usually minimum salary of AED 4,000 to AED 5,000 per month).
- You live in a place with enough space for your family.
Step 2: Get the Required Documents
Collect all the papers you need. Ensure the validity and correctness of all the documents. Get them updated and translated if required.
Step 3: Apply for Entry Permit
Apply for an entry permit for your family at a typing center, Amer center, or online through the GDRFA (General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs) portal.
After approval, your family can enter the UAE with this permit.
Step 4: Take Medical Test (For Adults)
When your family arrives in the UAE, adults (usually 18 years and older) must take a medical fitness test at a government health center.
They test for diseases like HIV and TB.
Step 5: Apply for Emirates ID
Go to an Emirates ID center and apply for an ID card for each family member.
This includes fingerprint scans for adults.
Step 6: Get Health Insurance
Make sure each family member has valid health insurance.
You cannot get the visa without this.
Step 7: Final Visa Stamping
Now, submit all the documents to the GDRFA or through the Amer Center for final stamping on the visa. This means the visa will be stamped inside the passport. Once approved, your family members can live with you in the UAE.
Documents Required to Apply for a Family Visa UAE
This is the list of documents required for a family visa in the United Arab Emirates. Ensure that your documents are complete and valid. Here:
- Copy of your passport (with UAE residence visa page)
- Passport copies of family members (wife, children, etc.)
- Recent passport-size photos of each family member (white background)
- Marriage certificate (attested and translated to Arabic)
- Birth certificates of children (attested and translated to Arabic)
- Salary certificate or job contract (showing your monthly income)
- Tenancy contract (Ejari or similar, registered with local authority)
- Latest utility bill (e.g., DEWA or SEWA bill)
- Medical fitness test report (for family members aged 18 and above)
- Health insurance card or insurance policy for each family member
- Emirates ID application form (for each family member)
- Entry permit copy (if family member entered UAE on a new visa)
Eligibility & Regulatory Family Visa Requirements
Eligibility Requirements:
Ensure that you meet all the eligibility requirements to sponsor family members. Here’s the list:
- You must have a valid UAE residence visa.
- Your monthly salary must meet the minimum requirement.
- You must have a legal tenancy contract (Ejari or similar) for your home.
- You must have medical insurance for each family member.
- You must provide attested marriage and birth certificates (translated to Arabic if needed).
- Sons can be sponsored up to age 18, or up to 21 if studying.
- Daughters can be sponsored if unmarried, with no age limit.
- You must apply for a newborn’s visa within 120 days of birth.
Regulatory Compliance Rules:
Each visa has regulatory compliance requirements. The following are for a family visa:
- All adult family members must pass a medical fitness test at an approved health center.
- Health insurance is mandatory for all family visa applications.
- Attestation of documents must be done by your home country’s government and the UAE embassy.
- Entry permit and visa applications must be made through GDRFA (or Amer centers in Dubai).
- You must follow the timeline for visa application (usually within 60 days after family entry).
- Visa renewal process must be done on time to avoid fines or cancellation.
- You cannot sponsor friends, relatives, or housemaids under a family visa.
Family Visa Cost in the UAE
This is an estimated cost structure for expatriates sponsoring their families:
| Item | Approximate Cost (AED) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Entry Permit (inside UAE) | 1,200 – 1,500 | Includes application and typing fees |
| Entry Permit (outside UAE) | 500 – 1,000 | May vary based on type (normal/urgent) |
| Change of Status (if inside UAE) | 650 – 800 | Payable if family is already in the UAE |
| Medical Fitness Test (per adult) | 300 – 400 | Required for 18+ years old; VIP test costs more |
| Emirates ID (1-year) | 250 – 300 | Cost increases for 2 or 3-year validity |
| Emirates ID (2-year) | 350 – 400 | |
| Health Insurance (per person) | 600 – 1,500 | Depends on coverage and age |
| Visa-Stamping (1-year) | 500 – 700 | Includes stamping and typing fees |
| Visa-Stamping (2-year) | 900 – 1,200 | Cost may vary by emirate |
| Typing & Service Fees | 200 – 500 | For form typing, file opening, and application support |
Total Estimated Cost per Family Member:
- Visa Valid for One Year: AED 3,000 – 4,000
- Visa Valid for Two Years: AED 4,000 – 5,000
Note: Costs can vary by emirate, urgency, and processing type.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the sponsorship requirements for a UAE family visa?
To sponsor your family, you must hold a valid residence visa, earn a minimum monthly salary, and meet housing and insurance rules set by the UAE government.
Who can apply for a UAE family visa?
Anyone residing in the UAE with a valid residence visa can sponsor their immediate family, depending on the sponsor’s visa type and income level.
How much does the family visa cost in Dubai?
The family visa cost in Dubai can range from AED 3,000 to AED 5,000 per family member, depending on visa validity and additional services.
What documents are required for sponsoring family in the UAE?
Required documents include passports, photos, marriage/birth certificates, tenancy contract, salary certificate, and health insurance proof.
What is the visa validity for a family residence visa in the UAE?
Family visas are usually valid for 1 to 3 years and must be renewed before visa expiry to avoid fines or cancellation.
Can a woman sponsor her family in the UAE?
Yes, a woman can sponsor her family if she meets the higher salary requirement and other eligibility for a family visa set by the UAE government.
When should I apply for family visa renewal?
You must renew your family’s residence visa before it expires. The visa must be renewed on time, or late fines may apply.
How long do I have to apply for a family visa after family members arrive in the UAE?
You have 60 days to apply for a UAE family visa after your family enters the country using an entry permit.
What happens if the visa expires or is cancelled?
If a family residence visa expires or is cancelled, the family must either leave the UAE or change their visa status within the allowed grace period.
Can I get help with the family visa process in Dubai?
Yes, you can use family visa services in Dubai for professional help. They assist with documentation, application, and smooth processing.
