In the UAE, immigrants who are planning to bring their families have to deal with the formidable process of obtaining a family visa. At Emerald Business Consultants, we value emotions and the ability to keep loved ones together especially in such a promising environment like the UAE. This guide contains answers to the most common questions: what it is and who can apply, listed down steps, essential documents, approximate costs and more.

Understanding Family Visa UAE Requirements: Who Can Sponsor and Be Sponsored?
Who Can Sponsor?
In the UAE, residents holding a valid visa and earning a minimum salary can sponsor their immediate family members. Here’s a breakdown:
- Salaried employees: Must earn at least AED 4,000 per month or AED 3,000 with accommodation provided by the employer.
- Business owners or investors: Must hold a valid trade license and demonstrate sufficient income.
Sponsorship is open to both male and female residents, though additional requirements may apply for women.
Who Can Be Sponsored?
The following family members are eligible for sponsorship:
- Spouse
- Children under 18 years (or up to 21 if pursuing higher education)
- Daughters who are unmarried
- Parents (additional conditions apply, such as a higher income threshold and proof of being the sole caretaker).
For an expert review of your eligibility and tailored advice, contact Emerald Business Consultants for guidance.
Family Visa UAE Price Guide
When it comes to the family visa UAE price, several factors determine the cost, including visa duration, type of service, and the individual’s relationship to the sponsor. Here’s an overview:
- Entry Permit Fees:
- AED 500–1,000 depending on standard or urgent processing.
- Medical Fitness Test Fees:
- AED 250–800 based on test type and emirate.
- Emirates ID Fees:
- AED 170–370 depending on validity (1, 2, or 3 years).
- Visa Stamping Fees:
- AED 500–750.
Is a Tenancy Contract Necessary for Family Visa UAE?
Pro Tip: Extra cost may be incurred during the course of the services such as document attestation charges, health insurance charges and typing charges. For more information on the cost analysis, feel free to contact Emerald Business Consultants for the actual rates according to your circumstances.
One question that many people ask is whether they can be granted a family visa UAE without a tenancy agreement. Officially, a person must present a copy of a tenancy contract as a document to confirm his/her residence. However, there are certain exceptions:
- Alternative Accommodation Proof: It is recommended that some emirates allow company accommodation letters or hotel stay documentations instead of the tenancy contract.
- Flexibility in Specific Emirates: Other emirates such as Ajman or Fujairah might have a more liberal stance. Nevertheless, Dubai and Abu Dhabi are more rigid regarding their tenancy rules and regulations.
In any case, Emerald Business Consultants can advise on the proper documentation and the best solution according to your circumstances.
Processing Time for Family Visa UAE
The processing time for a family visa in the UAE can vary depending on the emirate, service type, and completeness of documentation. Here’s what you need to know:
- Standard Processing:
Typically takes 5–10 business days. - Urgent Processing:
Available at an additional cost, with visas issued within 24–48 hours. - Document Attestation and Translation:
Ensure your documents are attested by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and translated into Arabic to avoid delays.
Therefore by working with Emerald Business Consultants, you will experience ease and fast track in your visa applications. We ensure that the identification, compilation and submission of documents is done by experts within the firm.
How to Apply for Family Visa in UAE
If you’re wondering how to apply family visa in UAE, follow these steps:
- Prepare Required Documents:
- Passport copies (sponsor and family members).
- Attested marriage certificate (for spouse).
- Birth certificates (for children).
- Salary certificate or trade license copy (for sponsor).
- Emirates ID and tenancy contract.
- Submit an Entry Permit Application:
This can be done online or through authorized typing centers. - Complete Medical Fitness Tests:
Required for family members over the age of 18. - Obtain Emirates ID and Health Insurance:
Mandatory for visa issuance. - Final Visa Stamping:
Once all steps are complete, submit your documents to the relevant immigration department for final visa stamping.
It would be quite challenging to understand all UAE family visa requirements, but it has to be done. We can provide professional visa service to all our clients according to your individual requirements at Emerald Business Consultants. Here’s why you should work with us:
Expert Guidance: Our team ensured that they had the latest information regarding visas in the United Arab Emirates.
Hassle-Free Processing: We complete all necessary forms and appointments, so you don’t have to.
Transparent Pricing: Our prices are fully disclosed and segmented with no extra rates or charges to shock you later.
Contact us today for your family visa procedure to be made as easy and efficient as possible.