Family Visa UAE
The UAE allows foreign nationals residing in the country to sponsor their family to come live with them. It is known as a family visa, allowing sponsorship of all family members, including spouses, parents, sons, daughters, and stepchildren. You need to meet a few requirements, including a monthly minimum salary. It is important to note that females can sponsor their husbands, too.
Features of a family visa in the UAE:
- Visa holder can live and work (with a separate work permit).
- Renewable upon expiry, subject to eligibility.
- Processed through GDRFA or the relevant emirate’s residency authority.
- Spouse must enter the country within the permit’s validity.
- After arrival, family must apply for an Emirates ID and complete a medical test.
The validity can be 1, 2, or 3 years, depending on the choice and the sponsor’s visa. It can be renewed or cancelled as required easily. The process of acquisition is simple, but it may be confusing if you lack professional consultancy.
This guide walks you through everything you should know about the family visa before setting out to start the process of acquisition. It helps you avoid any challenges or complications along the way to experience a smooth process.
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Renewal, Cancellation & Family Visa Cost
- Cost Structure
- Visa Cancellation
- Visa Renewal
The cost depends on several factors and variables. Here’s a general breakdown:
- Entry Permit: AED 500–1,200 per person.
- Medical Fitness Test: AED 250–700 per person.
- Emirates ID: AED 170–370, depending on the visa duration.
- Visa Stamping: AED 500–750.
- Health Insurance: AED 700–2,500 annually per person.
- Additional Fees: Processing fees, typing center charges, and administrative costs may add AED 100–200.
The visa can easily be cancelled by visiting the GDRFA office or filling out an application for cancellation through a registered typing center. The holder can leave the country within a limit of 30 days, or they can also apply for a change in the status of the visa if required.
The validity of a family visa depends on the nature of the visa of the sponsor. The document can easily be renewed through the General Directorate of Residence and Foreigners Affairs if required, and given that the sponsor and the family are eligible.
Steps to Apply for a Family Visa in Dubai - UAE
If you’re applying online, you must log in or make a new account on the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs website or app. If applying in person, you can visit a nearby typing center in your city or emirate.
Gather the required documents. This step is important. Ensure the validity and correctness of the documents, or it can cause needless delays or rejection.
You can submit your visa application online using the GDRFA Smart Services portal or go to a nearby typing center or an Amer center. Make sure all documents are complete, or it may cause delays. You’ll have 30 days to fix any missing papers if asked.
Pay the required fee. The expenses include visa processing fee, Emirates ID fee, medical tests, and other expenses.
The spouse must take a medical test if they are over the age of 18. The test checks for diseases like tuberculosis. It is mandatory for the sponsorship of a UAE visa.
Once your application is approved, you’ll get an SMS or email. Then you can get the visa stamped in the spouse’s passport.
Apply for the ID with the details of your UAE residence visa and entry permit. Once the ID is issued, the stay will be completely legal.
Details on Sponsoring a Family Visa in UAE
- Spouse
- Sons
- Daughters
- Parents
- Stepchildren
Both a wife and husband can sponsor their spouse, given that they meet the requirements. A Muslim man may sponsor two wives if the GDRFA rules are met.
You can sponsor sons up to age 18. If over 18, they must be students (up to age 21). They must enter every 6 months if studying abroad.
Daughters can also get a family permit, given that they are unmarried.
You must earn AED 20k/month or AED 19k + a 2-bedroom home. You have to sponsor both unless one has passed away. A deposit of AED 2,500 has to be made for each. Medical insurance is mandatory.
You need to acquire a No Objection Certificate from the real parent first in order to get a family permit for your stepchildren.
Reasons for Spouse Visa Rejection and How to Fix Them
Incomplete Documents
Reason: If any required paper is missing or not correct, your application can be rejected.
Solution: Double-check all documents like your marriage certificate, Emirates ID, and tenancy contract before applying.
Low Salary
Reason: If your salary is below the required amount, you can’t sponsor your family.
Solution: Wait until your salary meets the minimum or talk to your employer about a possible raise.
Wrong or Expired Visa
Reason: Using the wrong visa type or applying with an expired permit will lead to rejection.
Solution: Always apply with a valid entry permit and the right category for your family member.
Benefits of a UAE Family Visa
Live with loved ones
Sponsor spouse & kids
Access to education
Apply for Emirates ID
Healthcare access
Long-term stay
Work rights (if allowed)
Easy visa renewals
Legal residency status
Stable family life
Required Documents for Family Visa UAE
- Sponsor's passport copy
- Family member's passport
- Visa copy of sponsor
- Emirates ID copy
- Salary certificate or contract
- Marriage certificate (attested)
- Birth certificates (attested)
- Recent passport photos
- Medical test report
- Tenancy contract (Ejari)
- Emirates ID application form
- Health insurance proof
Eligibility Requirements for UAE Visa for Family
- Sponsor must hold a valid residence visa
- Minimum salary for male sponsors: AED 4,000 or AED 3,000 with accommodation
- Minimum salary for female sponsors: AED 10,000 or AED 8,000 with accommodation
- Females working in healthcare, engineering, or education can apply with a salary of at least AED 5,000
- A legally attested marriage certificate is required for a spouse visa
- Family must pass a medical fitness test at an approved center
- Sponsor must have a valid tenancy contract or housing proof
- Health insurance must be provided for the spouse
- Must earn AED 20,000/month or AED 19,000 + a 2-bedroom home for parents sponsorship
Tips for a Successful UAE Visa Application
Apply Early
Waiting till the last moment can cost a lot, including rejection. Ensure applying for the visa, flight tickets, and other approvals at your earliest convenience. Plan ahead so you can avoid needless last-minute complications.
Check All Documents
Submitting the wrong or invalid documents can cost you delays or fines. Some cases may even end up in the rejection of the application. Ensure that the documents are valid and correct before submission.
Use Trusted Sources
Always apply through legitimate channels to avoid any scams or delays. Check if the channel you’re applying through is properly registered with the authorities in the United Arab Emirates.
Get UAE Residency Visa in in 4 Simple Steps
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We Handle Your Documents
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We Apply for You
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You Get Your Visa
Once approved, we get your visa delivered to you. You’re ready to explore UAE!
Need Professional Help for Family Visa Services?
Check if they are licensed and trusted
See their experience with visa cases
Make sure they offer clear, upfront costs
Read client reviews and success stories
Confirm they communicate clearly and promptly
IBG Consultancy offers it all and more, including suitable packages for a wide range of preferences. Our years of experience and networking with the authorities in the United Arab Emirates help us get you the best packages and processing time. Contact us today to get your family visa smoothly!
Frequently Asked Questions
How can expatriates bring their family members to the UAE?
Expatriates with a valid residency can sponsor their spouse and children, provided they meet the minimum salary requirements set by the UAE government.
What documents are required to apply for family members’ residence?
You need to submit passport copies, marriage certificates, proof of income, and medical test reports for each family member.
What is the application process for sponsoring dependents?
The sponsor must create an account with GDRFA Dubai, submit required documents, pay the necessary fees, and apply for an entry permit for their dependents.
Can I sponsor my family members if I work in the UAE?
Yes, as long as you meet the salary requirements and have a valid residence visa, you can sponsor your immediate family.
How much does it cost to sponsor family members in the UAE?
The cost includes processing fees, medical exams, and Emirates ID fees. The total can range depending on the number of dependents and their needs.
Can an employee sponsor his family if he is on a short-term contract?
Employees on short-term contracts may only sponsor their dependents if they meet the salary criteria and the residency permit duration allows.
What are the residency requirements for children born in the UAE?
Babies born in the UAE are considered residents but must be registered, and a valid new residence permit must be applied for within 30 days.
How long is the residence permit for my family valid?
The permit is typically valid for one year and can be renewed based on the sponsor’s permit status and ongoing eligibility.
Can I sponsor my parents if I am working in the UAE?
Yes, expatriates can sponsor their parents if they meet the salary requirements and provide the necessary documents, including a health insurance policy.
What happens if my family’s residence permit expires?
If your family’s residency permit expires, you must apply for renewal or exit the UAE. Make sure to track the expiry dates to avoid fines or penalties.
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