If you're part of the vibrant expatriate workforce in the UAE, navigating the family sponsorship visa process just got a bit easier, thanks to some recent updates in visa regulations. Whether you're looking to bring your loved ones closer or ensure they can stay with you in the UAE, this guide is designed to walk you through the essentials of securing residency for your dependents. Let's dive in and unpack what you need to know.
An Overview of UAE Family Visa Changes
In a move that has been warmly welcomed by expatriates across the UAE, the government rolled out significant amendments to its visa policy in 2022. These changes have particularly impacted the family sponsorship policy, making it more accessible for UAE residents to have their families with them.
Extended Age for Son Sponsorship: One of the standout changes is the extension of the age limit for sons being sponsored by their parents. Residents can now sponsor their sons up to the age of 25, offering greater flexibility and peace of mind for families.
Navigating the Updated UAE Family Visa Rules
Hello, everyone! Are you living in the UAE and thinking about bringing your family closer to you? Well, there's some good news! The UAE has made some significant changes to its family visa rules, making it easier for expatriates to sponsor their loved ones. Let's break down what these changes mean for you and how you can go about sponsoring your family members under the new regulations.
What's New with UAE Family Visa Rules?
Gone are the days when only certain professions or educational backgrounds could lead you to sponsor your family in the UAE. Now, it's all about your financial capability and having a valid visa. Yes, you heard it right! Whether you're a man or a woman working in the UAE, you can sponsor your immediate family members, provided you meet the income criteria set by the authorities.
Income Over Profession: Your job designation no longer dictates your eligibility to sponsor family visas. If you have the financial means, you're good to go.
Male Residents: Can sponsor their wives and children with a minimum salary of AED 4,000 or AED 3,000 plus accommodation.
Female Residents in Abu Dhabi: Need a valid work visa and a monthly salary of at least AED 5,000 to sponsor their families.
Female Residents in Dubai: Require a salary of at least AED 4,000 and must get approval from the GDFRA.
Residency Visa Rules for Children
The 2022 amendments brought a sweet deal for those looking to sponsor their sons, extending the age limit up to 25 years. Daughters, on the other hand, enjoy even more flexibility, as they can be sponsored until they get married, with no age limit imposed.
Sponsorship Age for Sons: Now extended up to 25 years.
Daughters: Can be sponsored with no age limit, until they get married.
Visa Fees: A nominal fee of AED 100 for first-time issuance and renewal.
Children with Disabilities: Receive a permanent residence permit, regardless of age.
Green Visa Holders: Can sponsor any first-degree relatives, with residency matching the sponsor's duration.
Embracing the Change
The updated family visa rules in the UAE have been a game-changer for expatriates, contributing significantly to the nation's socio-economic stability and making it a more family-friendly place. Whether you're planning to start a family in the UAE or looking to bring your loved ones closer, the new regulations are designed to make the process as smooth as possible.
Remember, the first step is always to check your UAE visa status to ensure you're eligible to sponsor your family. Once that's sorted, you're all set to make the UAE a home for your loved ones too.
Understanding the UAE Family Visa Requirements
Planning to bring your family closer in the UAE? Whether it's for your spouse, children, or parents, understanding the family visa UAE requirements is your first step. Let's dive into what you need to know to make this process as smooth as possible.
Spouse Visa: Bringing Your Better Half Closer
Proof of Relationship: A marriage certificate, translated into Arabic, is a must.
Income Eligibility: Ensure you meet the income criteria we discussed earlier.
Special Permission: It's possible, but you'll need to adhere strictly to the GDRFA's rules and regulations.
Sponsoring Children: Keeping the Family Together
Unmarried: You can sponsor your daughters provided they are unmarried.
Age Limit: Sons can be sponsored up until they are 25 years old.
Special Needs: There's no age limit for sponsoring sons with special needs.
Registration Deadline: Make sure to apply for a residence visa within 120 days of birth to avoid fines.
Documentation: A deposit for each child and a no-objection certificate from the biological parent are required.
Renewal: Visas for stepchildren are issued for one year but can be renewed annually.
Eligibility: Follow the GDRFA's stipulations for single or married mothers to sponsor children.
Sponsoring Parents: Ensuring Their Comfort and Security
Medical Insurance: A must-have for your parents, renewable annually.
Deposit: Required for sponsoring each parent for a year's stay.
Together Always: Both parents must be sponsored together, unless official documents justify otherwise.
Proof of Sole Support: If sponsoring one parent due to death or divorce, official proof is needed.
Family Size and Income Requirements:
Family of Five: A minimum salary of AED 10,000 is required.
Family of Six or More: A minimum salary of AED 15,000 is necessary.
Family Visa in the UAE: Eligibility and Salary Criteria Unveiled
Hello, expats! Are you contemplating bringing your family to join you in the UAE but feeling a bit lost in the maze of regulations? Fret not! The UAE has streamlined its family visa rules, making it easier for expatriates with valid residency permits to sponsor their loved ones. Let's break down the eligibility criteria and salary requirements to get your family visa process started on the right foot.
Sponsoring Your Loved Ones Made Easy
General Rule: Any expatriate with a valid residency permit is eligible to sponsor their family.
Salary Criteria for Male Sponsors: The magic number is AED 4,000 or AED 3,000 plus accommodation.
Ladies, You Can Sponsor Too: Wives sponsoring husbands is a go! And yes, husbands can apply for work permits too.
Motherly Love: Mothers can sponsor their children under special circumstances, as verified by the UAE ICP.
Student Sponsors: Foreign university students in the UAE can also bring their families over, provided they have suitable housing.
UAEICP App: For a smooth process, download the official UAEICP app available for both Apple and Android devices.
Medical Fitness: A Visa Prerequisite
Before you mark your calendars for a family reunion in the UAE, there's an important step: the medical fitness test.
Who Needs It: Anyone 18 years and above looking to renew or apply for a residence visa.
What's Involved: A blood test and an X-ray at a government-approved health center.
Why It Matters: Your visa hangs in the balance; if deemed medically unfit, the visa will not be granted.
Inactive or Dormant Cases: If detected, you're "considered medically fit" but with a twist. You'll receive a one-year ‘Health Fitness Certificate for Residence,’ contingent on undergoing treatment and regular check-ups.
Getting Started: The Clock is Ticking
Once your family sets foot in the UAE, the countdown begins. You have a 90-day window to kickstart the residence visa application process. Here's a quick rundown of the critical timelines:
Entry Permit: Your family members will receive this upon arrival, which you have 60 days to convert into a valid residence visa.
Outside Dubai: Known as "Tasheera," the entry permit can be obtained online or at a typing center.
Sponsoring Parents: Good news! You can sponsor your parents annually, regardless of your visa's duration.
Essential Documents: What You'll Need
The key to a smooth sponsorship process? Having all your documents in order. Let's look at what you'll need to gather.
Passport: Yours, of course!
Residence Visa Copies: Keep them handy.
NOC Letter: If mom is sponsoring, you'll need a No Objection Certificate from dad for boys below 18 and girls below 21, attested by the notary public.
Proof of Mother’s Status: Required if dad is the sponsor.
Passport Scan: Ensure it's valid for more than 6 months.
Previous Residence Visa: If applicable.
Birth Certificate: Legalized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the UAE Embassy, with an Arabic translation.
Relationship Proof: If a birth certificate isn't available, a consulate letter, attested and translated, will do.
Digital Photo: Make sure it meets the ICP's specifications.
National ID Card: For applicants from Iran, Pakistan, Iraq, Afghanistan, and Libya.
Father’s Unmarried Undertake Letter: Sign this during the online application.
Marriage Certificate: Again, legalized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the UAE Embassy.
National ID Cards: For the same countries mentioned above.
Visa Validity and Renewal: Keeping Things Legal
The visa for your family members can last from two to three years, mirroring the sponsor's visa duration. However, note that parents and adult sons typically receive a one-year visa.
If the sponsor's visa is cancelled, the dependents' visas will follow suit. And if a dependent's visa expires or is cancelled, there's a 30-day grace period to secure a new permit.
Miss the Deadline? Without renewal, dependents become "illegal residents" and might face overstay fines.
Breaking Down the Costs
Understanding the financial side of family visa sponsorship is key. Here's a snapshot of the current costs associated with various visa types and situations:
Remember: These costs are subject to change, so it's always a good idea to check the latest figures directly from official sources like Amer's website.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is intended for general informational purposes only. The details mentioned are based on the best available information at the time of publication and are subject to change without notice by the respective authorities. Readers are encouraged to consult the relevant offices directly for the most accurate and updated information.
Faqs about Family Visa
What is the price of a family visa in Dubai? is it different for each emirate?
The family visa fee in Dubai is the same as in the rest of the nation. Please see the chart above for the family visa cost in Dubai.
Can I pay family visa charges in Dubai online?
Yes, you may pay for visas using a debit or credit card. So, after you've finished the application, you may pay for your family visa in Dubai online. You may also check your visa status online on the official website.
Can husbands sponsored by women work in the UAE?
According to the UAE Family Visa Rules 2021, males sponsored by spouses are now eligible for UAE work visas.
Who Can Sponsor a Family in the UAE?
Those who fulfil the minimum wage criteria and have a valid UAE residency visa may sponsor their relatives.
Can a Dubai freelancer sponsor a family in the UAE?
Yes, freelancing visa holders in Dubai may sponsor their relatives.
What is the process time for sponsoring family members in the UAE?
In general, processing time ranges from two to three weeks. However, it varies from instance to case.
How much does a dependent visa cost in Dubai?
The cost of a dependent visa in Dubai, or a family visa, is determined by the period of the visa. A new dependant visa over the age of 18 costs AED 7,032.25 when the sponsor has a 2-year investor visa. Please refer to the table above for further information.
What is the process for sponsoring a maid in the UAE?
To sponsor a maid in Dubai, you must fulfill Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) standards.
Is there a visa cancellation fee?
Yes, dependant visa cancellation in the UAE will cost you around AED 120.
Ready to find your dream home? Click on the links below to explore our exclusive selection of properties, projects, and services: