The UAE is a popular destination for expatriates, offering opportunities for families to live, work, and thrive together. If you’re planning to sponsor your family members, understanding the UAE Family Visa process is essential.
A Family Visa in the UAE allows expatriates to sponsor their immediate family members, including their spouse, children, and sometimes parents or in-laws, to live with them in the country. This visa is valid for 1, 2, or 3 years, depending on the sponsor's visa and the type of residency.
Sponsorship eligibility depends on:
Employment Status:
The sponsor must hold a valid residency visa.
Employment in the UAE is a common requirement.
Salary Requirements:
A minimum monthly salary of AED 4,000 or AED 3,000 + accommodation is required to sponsor immediate family members.
Gender Considerations:
Traditionally, male expatriates could sponsor their families.
Female expatriates can also sponsor their family members, provided they meet specific criteria, including a higher salary threshold in some cases
For the Sponsor:
Valid residency visa and Emirates ID.
Attested tenancy contract (Ejari).
Salary certificate (for private sector employees).
Trade license copy (for business owners).
For Family Members:
Passport copies (with at least six months validity).
Passport-sized photos with a white background.
Marriage certificate (attested and translated, if required).
Birth certificates of children (attested and translated, if required).
Additional Documents:
Medical fitness test results (for applicants above 18 years old).
Proof of relationship (e.g., legal translations or affidavits).
Ensure Eligibility
Meet the salary and residency requirements.
Gather Documentation
Collect all necessary documents and ensure they are attested if required.
Medical Fitness Test
Arrange a medical test for family members above 18 years.
Submit Visa Application
Apply through GDRFA (General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs) or online via the ICP (Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security).
Emirates ID Application
Apply for Emirates IDs for each family member.
Visa Stamping
After approval, the residency visa is stamped in the passport.