Dubai is a thriving hub that attracts expatriates from all over the world, many of whom wish to bring their families along. If you are an expatriate residing in the UAE, applying for a family visa in Dubai allows you to sponsor your spouse, children, and even parents under certain conditions. Understanding the eligibility criteria, document requirements, and costs involved can make the process smoother. In this blog, Emerald Business Consultants walks you through the essential details of obtaining a family visa UAE.
Family Visa UAE: Who Can Sponsor and Eligibility Criteria
Expatriates living in Dubai having a valid residency visa have the opportunity to get a family visa, a process that requires them to be earning enough and be a professional as presented by the UAE government. Here’s a list of who can provide residency sponsorship for dependents under a family visa in UAE:
- Husbands Sponsoring Wives: A man should be paid a minimum of AED 4,000 monthly or AED 3,000 with the help of accommodation so that he can sponsor his wife.
- Wives Sponsoring Husbands: A female expatriate has the right to bring her husband under some conditions such as a higher salary threshold (usually AED 10,000 or AED 8,000 with accommodation) and the approval from the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA).
- Sponsoring Children: Parents can sponsor children who are under the age of 18. Should the sons reach 18, they must either be in higher institutions within the UAE or elsewhere in which case they must provide proof of education.
- Sponsoring Parents: Expatriates can sponsor their parents if they meet the minimum salary requirement (AED 20,000) and the proof of sole responsibility is provided.
One of your first tasks prior to applying for the family visa UAE is to be sure that you are, indeed, qualified based on the above eligibility criteria you have possessed.
Dubai Family Visa Requirements: Documents Needed for Approval
To apply for a family visa, you need to provide these documents:
- Sponsor’s Documents:
Valid Emirates ID
Copy of passport
Residency visa copy
Salary certificate or labor contract
- Dependent’s Documents:
Passport copies (with at least six months validity)
Passport-size photographs (as per UAE visa specifications)
Birth certificate (for children) attested by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Marriage certificate attested by the UAE authorities (for spouses)
Medical fitness test results for applicants above 18 years
Health insurance (mandatory in Dubai)
Not overlooking delivering these papers honestly will eliminate any inconveniences or throwbacks in your Dubai family visa process.
Family Visa Cost in Dubai: Fees and Other Expenses Explained
The cost of a family visa in Dubai depends on the duration and category of the visa. Below is a general breakdown of the family visa cost in Dubai:
- Entry Permit: AED 500–AED 1,100 (varies based on inside/outside UAE applications)
- Medical Fitness Test: AED 300–AED 700 (depending on the type of test and processing speed)
- Emirates ID Fee: AED 370–AED 750 (based on the visa validity period)
- Visa Stamping Charges: AED 500–AED 1,000
- Health Insurance: AED 600–AED 1,500 (depending on policy coverage)
It’s important to note that these figures are subject to change based on updated regulations. Emerald Business Consultants can help you get the latest fee structure before applying for a family visa UAE.
Family Visa Renewal Charges in Dubai: What to Expect
A family visa in Dubai is typically valid for one, two, or three years, after which it must be renewed. The family visa renewal charges in Dubai include:
- Visa Renewal Fee: AED 300–AED 600 per year
- Medical Fitness Test: AED 300–AED 700 (same as first-time application)
- Emirates ID Renewal: AED 370–AED 750 (depending on validity)
- Overstay Penalties: AED 25 per day if the renewal is delayed beyond the visa expiry date
To avoid fines and legal complications, applicants should begin the renewal process at least 30 days before visa expiration. Emerald Business Consultants assists clients in navigating the renewal process seamlessly, ensuring compliance with updated government regulations.
Conclusion
Applying for a family visa in Dubai involves multiple steps, from meeting eligibility criteria to submitting essential documents and covering processing fees. Whether you are applying for a new visa or renewing an existing one, staying informed about the Dubai family visa requirements and family visa cost in Dubai is crucial.
Emerald Business Consultants provides expert assistance to expatriates looking to bring their families to Dubai, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free application process. Contact us today to get started with your family visa UAE application and secure a future for your loved ones in the UAE.