UAE Family Visa Requirements
Expatriate residents holding valid UAE residence permits can sponsor eligible family members to reside in the UAE.
This comprehensive guide covers essential requirements, documents, procedures, and costs to ensure a smooth family sponsorship process.
Disclaimer: This information is provided for general guidance purposes only. Visa requirements, fees, and procedures are subject to change at any time by the relevant UAE authorities without prior notice. We strongly recommend consulting with official UAE government sources or qualified immigration professionals for the most current information.
Who Can Be Sponsored
UAE residents can obtain family visas for the following eligible family members:
- Spouse (Muslims can sponsor up to two spouses with proper marriage documentation and ICP approval)
- Sons until age 25, or beyond if they are students enrolled in full-time education
- Sons with disabilities or special needs (persons of determination) with no age restriction
- Unmarried daughters with no age limit
- Parents or spouse’s parents (subject to higher salary requirements and specific conditions)
- Stepchildren (with No Objection Certificate from biological parent; 1-year visa renewable annually)
- Minor siblings (under specific circumstances and ICP approval)
- Grandchildren with grandparents as sponsors (UAE nationals only)
- Newborn babies born in the UAE (must apply within 120 days of birth)
Special Category: UAE Citizen Family Members
Foreign spouses, parents, or children of UAE citizens can obtain 5-year residence visas without requiring employment, sponsored by the UAE citizen.
Minimum Salary Requirements
The sponsor must meet minimum income thresholds to sponsor family members:
For Spouse and Children:
- AED 4,000 per month OR
- AED 3,000 per month plus employer-provided accommodation
For Parents
- Federal requirement: AED 10,000 per month minimum
- Dubai requirement: AED 20,000 per month (or AED 19,000 plus two-bedroom accommodation) through GDRFA Dubai
- Important: Salary requirements vary by emirate; verify specific requirements with your local immigration authority
For Stepchildren
- Minimum salary: AED 4,000 per month or AED 3,000 with accommodation
- Some sources indicate AED 6,000, including accommodation
- Verify current requirements with GDRFA
Mandatory Requirements for All Sponsors
Health Insurance
Health insurance is mandatory for all sponsored family members before visa stamping. Sponsors must provide:
- Valid DHA-approved insurance in Dubai
- DOH-compliant insurance in Abu Dhabi
- Relevant emirate-approved insurance in other emirates
Insurance costs vary by age and coverage, typically ranging from AED 750 to 2,500 annually for spouses and children and AED 2,500 to 5,000+ for parents above 60 years.
Accommodation
Registered accommodation through Ejari (tenancy contract) or property ownership documents is required for all family sponsorships.
For parent sponsorship, a separate room must be available; studios and one-bedroom apartments are not suitable.
Required Documents
Sponsoring Spouse and Children
Case 1: Husband as Sponsor
- Sponsor’s valid residence visa and Emirates ID
- Passport copy of sponsor
- Salary certificate or employment contract issued within one month of application
- Marriage certificate attested by MOFA UAE and translated into Arabic
- Birth certificates of children (attested and translated into Arabic)
- Passport copies and photographs of spouse and children
- Registered Ejari tenancy contract or property ownership documents
- Court order for foster children (if applicable)
- Valid health insurance policies for all dependents
Case 2: Wife as Sponsor
All documents listed above, plus:
- Father’s No Objection Certificate (NOC) notarized by Dubai Court when sponsoring children
- Minimum salary requirement of AED 10,000 per month (may vary by emirate)
Case 3: Father with Children (Without Mother)
Father can sponsor children without the mother’s approval, using standard documentation listed in Case 1.
Case 4: Mother with Children (Without Father)
Mother requires additional documentation:
- Court certificate confirming mother as sole legal guardian, OR
- Father’s death certificate, OR
- Father’s notarized NOC
Note: Father’s consent alone is insufficient for children to travel internationally.
Sponsoring Parents
In addition to standard sponsor documents, parent sponsorship requires:
- Mandatory health insurance with minimum coverage for each parent (costs increase with age)
- Both parents must be sponsored together unless divorced or one parent is deceased (official proof required)
- Security deposit: AED 3,000 per parent
- Separate accommodation: Parents must have their own room; two-bedroom accommodation minimum
- Proof of relationship: Sponsor’s birth certificate and parents’ marriage certificate (both attested by MOFA UAE)
- Minimum salary compliance: AED 10,000 federally; AED 20,000 in Dubai
Sponsoring Stepchildren
Stepchild sponsorship requires additional documentation and specific conditions:
Required Documents:
- All standard family visa documents
- Attested marriage certificate (proving sponsor’s legal marriage to stepchild’s parent)
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) from biological parent, properly attested
- Legal custody documents issued by competent court in child’s home country
- Attested birth certificate of stepchild
- School enrollment proof (if school-going age)
- Affidavit stating sponsor can financially support the child
Important Conditions:
- Stepchildren’s residence visas are valid for 1 year only, renewable annually
- Security deposit required (verify current amount with GDRFA; sources indicate AED 5,000 per child)
- Child must reside with sponsor in UAE
- Stepfather sponsoring wife’s children: Generally approved if documentation is complete
- Stepmother sponsoring husband’s children: Requires ICP approval on humanitarian grounds
Sponsoring Newborn Babies Born in UAE
Parents have 120 days from the date of birth to complete all residency formalities for newborns.
Required Documents:
- Birth notification from hospital
- Birth certificate from Ministry of Health and Prevention (or DHA/DOH)
- Birth certificate attested by MOFA UAE
- Newborn’s passport from parent’s embassy
- Parents’ valid residence visa and Emirates ID
- Marriage certificate (attested)
Critical Deadlines:
- Birth registration: 30 days from birth
- Residence visa application: 120 days from birth
- Fine for delay: AED 100 per day after 120 days
- The baby cannot exit UAE if the visa is not finalized within 120 days
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Document Legalization Process
All foreign documents must be properly attested before use in the UAE. The UAE has not acceded to the 1961 Hague Convention, requiring consular legalization:
Step-by-step legalization:
- Notarize document copies in the country of origin
- Translate documents into Arabic (English translation also recommended); notarize translator’s signature
- Authenticate notary’s seal and signature at the Ministry of Justice in your country
- Attest at the Foreign Ministry’s Consular Department in your country
- Verify at the UAE Consulate or Embassy in your country
- Final attestation by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) upon arrival in UAE
UAE Family Visa Application Process
The sponsor must present:
- Original Emirates ID
- Complete document package
Processing time:
- Typically 5 business days
Validity:
- 60 days to enter UAE and complete visa processing
The sponsor's employer submits a Change Status request through ICP or GDRFA. Once approved in principle, the applicant completes medical fitness, biometrics, Emirates ID, and residency stamping within the validity of their current visa.
Medical Tests Include:
- Blood test: HIV, syphilis, hepatitis B & C screening
- Chest X-ray: Tuberculosis (TB) screening
- Additional tests for food handlers, domestic workers, nursery staff, salon professionals
Required Documents for Medical Test:
- Original passport (valid 6+ months)
- Entry permit/visa copy
- Emirates ID (for renewals)
- 2 passport-sized photos (white background)
- UAE Pass login required at most centers
Testing Centers:
- DHA-approved medical centers in Dubai
- DOH-approved centers in Abu Dhabi
- Emirate-approved centers in other locations
- Parents: AED 3,000 per parent (mandatory regardless of sponsor visa type)
- Investor visa holders: AED 3,000 per sponsored family member
- Stepchildren: Verify current deposit amount with GDRFA (sources indicate AED 5,000 per child)
Deposits are refundable upon visa cancellation.
Track Your Family Visa Application Status
For ICP-Processed Applications (Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, RAK, UAQ, Fujairah)
Online Tracking:
- Visit: ICP Smart Services website (smartservices.icp.gov.ae)
- Select the “Application Status” or “File Validity” service
- Enter: Application number, passport number, or visa number
- Alternative: Download ICP Smart App for mobile tracking
For GDRFA Dubai-Processed Applications
Online Tracking:
- Use the DubaiNow App for GDRFA service status
- Enter: Email used in application + Emirates ID + Application reference number
- Alternative: GDRFA Dubai online services portal
Emirates ID Status Check
Track Emirates ID Application:
- Visit the ICP website – “ID Card Status” service
- Enter: PRAN (application number) OR Emirates ID number
Family Visa Renewal Process
When to Renew
Visa renewal should begin 30 days before the current visa expires. Do not wait until expiry to avoid complications.
All family members’ visas must maintain the same requirements as the initial application.
Processing Time
Standard Processing:
2 business days through ICP Smart Services
Through AMER Centers:
48 hours
Renewal Channels
- ICP Smart Services Website (smartservices.icp.gov.ae) – requires UAE Pass login
- ICP Smart App
- Authorized AMER Centers
- Approved typing centers and PRO services
Important: Renewal services require UAE Pass authentication for online applications.
Required Documents for Renewal
General Requirements:
- Valid passport with a minimum of 6 months validity
- Current residence visa copy
- Emirates ID of all family members
- Recent passport-sized photograph (white background)
- Medical fitness certificate for dependents aged 18 and above
- Valid health insurance for all dependents
Sponsor-Specific Documents:
- Updated salary certificate (if required by authority)
- Proof of kinship: Marriage certificate, birth certificates
- Birth certificates to verify children’s ages, or disability documents for children with special needs
- Employment certificate confirming monthly income and housing
- Registered Ejari tenancy contract or property documents
For Parent Renewal:
- Valid health insurance (mandatory)
- Proof of sponsor’s continued minimum salary compliance (AED 10,000 federal / AED 20,000 Dubai)
- Updated accommodation proof showing separate room
Renewal Fees
Federal Authorities:
| Service | Fee (AED) |
|---|---|
|
Application Fee |
100 |
|
Renewal Fee (per year of residence) |
100 |
|
Smart Service Fee |
100 |
|
Total per person (1-year renewal) |
300 |
Note: For multi-year renewals, the renewal fee multiplies by the number of years. For example, a 2-year renewal = AED 100 + (AED 100 × 2) + AED 100 = AED 400.
Dubai (GDRFA) fees may vary – check the GDRFA official website for current rates.
Visa Overstay Penalties and Grace Periods
Overstay Fines (2026 Regulations)
Current Fine Rate (Effective 2026):
- AED 50 per day for overstaying after visa expiry or cancellation
- Fine applies to all visa types: residence, tourist, and visit visas
- Previous rate: AED 25/day for residence visas; now standardized at AED 50/day
Important Note: A fine of AED 50 will be charged for each day of stay in the country after the visa has expired or been cancelled.
Grace Periods
Standard Residence Visa:
- 30-day grace period after visa expiry for most residence visas
- A grace period allows time to renew or make exit arrangements
- Overstay fines begin after the grace period expires
Dependent Visa After Sponsor Cancellation:
- 6-month grace period from sponsor visa cancellation date
- Dependents can seek new sponsorship, transfer to another family member, or exit UAE during this period
- Must take action within 6 months to avoid overstay penalties
Tourist/Visit Visas:
- May not have grace periods; verify specific visa type
- Contact ICP or GDRFA immediately if overstaying on tourist visa
Overstay Penalty Calculation Example
Scenario: Residence visa expired on March 1, 2026
- Grace period ends: March 31, 2026
- Overstay begins: April 1, 2026
- Exit date: April 20, 2026 (20 days overstay)
- Fine calculation: AED 50 × 20 days = AED 1,000
Other Immigration Penalties
Additional Fines (GDRFA Regulations):
- Delayed Emirates ID registration: Fines up to AED 5,000
- Non-cooperation with authorities: Fines up to AED 5,000
- Lost or damaged Emirates ID: Replacement fee + possible penalties
How to Avoid Overstay Penalties
- Set visa expiry reminders 45 days before expiration
- Begin renewal process 30 days before expiry
- Ensure passport has 6+ months validity before renewal
- Maintain valid health insurance throughout visa period
- If unable to renew, exit UAE before grace period ends
- Check visa status regularly through ICP/GDRFA portals
Family Visa Costs (2026)
Estimated costs per person (fees vary by emirate and service provider):
| Service | Cost (AED) |
|---|---|
|
Entry Permit |
500 – 1,200 |
|
Medical Examination and Fingerprinting (18+ years) |
300 – 1,100 |
|
Visa Status Change (if applying inside UAE) |
500 – 700 |
|
Visa Stamping and Processing |
500 – 1,000 |
|
Emirates ID (per person) |
250 – 450 |
|
Deposit for Sponsored Parent (refundable) |
3,000 |
|
Deposit for Investor Visa Holders – per family member (refundable) |
3,000 |
|
Deposit for Stepchildren (refundable; verify with GDRFA) |
3,000 – 5,000 |
|
Health Insurance (Spouse/Children annually) |
750 – 2,500 |
|
Health Insurance (Parents 60+ annually) |
2,500 – 5,000+ |
|
Newborn Digital Processing (ICP 2026 service) |
350 |
|
Renewal Fee (ICP per person per year) |
300 |
Total estimated cost per person: AED 4,500 – 6,500 (excluding deposits and insurance)
Important Disclaimer: Costs shown are estimates including government fees, service charges, and processing costs. Actual fees vary by emirate, service provider, and specific circumstances. Always verify current fees with ICP or GDRFA before application.
Visa Validity and Cancellation
Validity Period
Family member visas are issued for the same duration as the sponsor’s visa.
Example: If you apply six months after receiving a 2-year visa, dependent visas will be valid for approximately 18 months from the issuance date (matching the sponsor’s remaining visa validity).
Exception: Stepchildren visas are valid for 1 year only, regardless of the sponsor’s visa duration, and must be renewed annually.
Grace Period After Cancellation
Dependents receive a 6-month grace period from the date of sponsor visa cancellation or expiry to obtain new residence permits.
During this period, dependents can:
- Seek new employment and sponsorship
- Transfer sponsorship to another family member
- Make arrangements to exit the UAE.
Failure to renew or properly cancel dependent visas within the grace period may result in overstay fines of AED 50 per day.
Special Provisions for Widows and Divorced Women
Women residing in the UAE on their husband’s sponsorship receive additional protections:
Residency Extension
- 1-year automatic extension granted from the date of divorce or husband’s death
- Extension provided without requiring a new sponsor
- Gives women time to secure their own employment visa or alternative sponsorship
Renewing Residency
- Widows and divorced women can renew their residency visas without a sponsor
- Must secure residency within 6 months of divorce or husband’s death while still in UAE
- Children’s visas continue during the grace period
This provision aims to allow women to modify their social and economic status and ensure family stability after loss of the primary sponsor.
Employment Rights on Family Visa
Can Family Visa Holders Work?
Yes. Family visa holders can seek employment in the UAE.
Process:
- Secure a job offer from a UAE-registered employer
- Employer applies for MOHRE work permit on your behalf
- The employer submits a change of Status request through ICP or GDRFA
- Once approved, complete medical fitness, biometrics, and residence stamping
- No need to exit UAE or cancel family visa first
Requirements:
- Valid family residence visa
- Job offer from licensed UAE employer
- Employer must meet MOHRE requirements
- Complete process within your current visa validity
Note: You can open bank accounts and access financial services using your family visa and spouse’s documentation as proof of residency.
Golden Visa Family Sponsorship Benefits
Golden Visa holders (5 or 10-year residence) enjoy enhanced family sponsorship privileges compared to standard residence visas:
Enhanced Benefits
- No age limit for sponsoring sons (standard visas are limited to age 25)
- No minimum salary requirement for family sponsorship
- Can sponsor unlimited domestic helpers
- Family members’ visas match Golden Visa duration (5 or 10 years)
- Family members can remain in UAE until visa expiry even if primary holder passes away
- Faster processing and priority service
Note: Golden Visa eligibility is separate from the standard residence visa and requires meeting specific criteria (investors, entrepreneurs, specialized talents, outstanding students, etc.). Consult the ICP official website for Golden Visa requirements.
FAQs
No. Official marriage documentation properly attested by MOFA UAE is mandatory for spousal sponsorship. All documents must be legalized through proper consular procedures.
Yes. A wife can sponsor her family with a minimum salary of AED 10,000 per month (requirements may vary by emirate). When sponsoring children, a notarized No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the father is required.
- Spouse and children: AED 4,000/month OR AED 3,000/month plus accommodation
- Parents (Federal): AED 10,000/month
- Parents (Dubai): AED 20,000/month through GDRFA Dubai
- Stepchildren: AED 4,000/month or AED 3,000 with accommodation (some sources indicate AED 6,000)
Sons can be sponsored until age 25. Sons enrolled in full-time higher education beyond age 25 may remain sponsored with proof of enrollment. Sons with disabilities (persons of determination) have no age restriction.
No. Both parents must be sponsored together unless divorced or one parent is deceased. Official documentation (divorce certificate or death certificate) is required to sponsor only one parent.
Yes. You can seek employment by securing a job offer from a UAE employer who will apply for your work permit and submit a Change of status request through ICP/GDRFA. You do not need to cancel your family visa or exit the UAE
Yes, with specific conditions. You must provide a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the biological parent, legal custody documentation, and meet salary requirements. Stepchildren visas are valid for 1 year and renewable annually. Verify current deposit requirements with GDRFA.
A fine of AED 100 per day is charged for each day beyond the 120-day deadline. Additionally, the baby will not be allowed to exit the UAE until the residence visa is finalized and fines are paid.
Yes. Health insurance is mandatory for all sponsored family members before visa stamping. This includes spouses, children, parents, and stepchildren. Insurance must be from approved providers (DHA in Dubai, DOH in Abu Dhabi, or relevant emirate authorities).
Dependents receive a 6-month grace period from the cancellation date to obtain new residence permits. During this time, you can seek new employment sponsorship or transfer to another family member's sponsorship. Overstay fines of AED 50/day apply after the grace period.
Entry permit approval typically takes 5 business days. Complete processing from entry permit to Emirates ID collection takes approximately 2-4 weeks, depending on document readiness, attestation accuracy, and emirate-specific procedures.
Entry permits are valid for 60 days from issuance. Family members must enter the UAE and complete the residence visa process within this period. If unable to complete within 60 days, a new entry permit application is required.
Women residing on their husband's sponsorship receive a 1-year automatic extension from the date of divorce or husband's death, without requiring a new sponsor. They can also renew their residency without a sponsor, provided they secure residency within 6 months while remaining in the UAE.
Yes. Foreign spouses, parents, or children of UAE citizens can obtain 5-year residence visas without requiring employment. The UAE citizen acts as the sponsor.
Don't miss out on this limited-time opportunity!
We'd Love To Hear From You
contact us
Find us Here
Office 2505, 25th Floor, Regal Tower, Business Bay, Dubai, UAE P.O Box 27614
Get In touch
+971 4 824 4842
info@jsbincorporation.com