The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is home to a large expat population, many of whom wish to bring their family members to reside with them. To do so, a family visa is required. This article provides a comprehensive guide on the expenses, procedures, and requirements for UAE expats to sponsor their family members.
Who Can Sponsor Family Members in the UAE?
In the UAE, expatriates can sponsor their immediate family members, including their spouse, children, and, in some cases, parents. To qualify as a sponsor, the expatriate must meet specific eligibility criteria:
- Residency Status: The sponsor must hold a valid UAE residence visa.
- Minimum Salary Requirement: As of 2025, the minimum salary requirement is AED 4,000 or AED 3,000 plus company-provided accommodation. However, this may vary depending on the emirate and the type of visa.
- Relationship Proof: Documents like marriage and birth certificates must be attested and legalized to prove the relationship.
Family Members Eligible for Sponsorship
- Spouse: A husband can sponsor his wife, and a wife can sponsor her husband (if she meets certain conditions).
- Children: Sons can be sponsored up to the age of 18 or 21 if they are studying. Daughters can be sponsored if they are unmarried.
- Parents: Expats can sponsor parents if they meet additional requirements, such as providing proof of sole caregiving and meeting higher salary thresholds.
Family Visa Application Process
The process to sponsor family members involves several steps. Below is a detailed outline:
1. Open a Sponsorship File
In Abu Dhabi, start by opening a sponsorship file with the ICP (Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security) or ICA. This step is mandatory before proceeding with any visa-related applications.
2. Entry Permit Application
Before family members enter the UAE, an entry permit must be applied for. The steps include:
- Submit the application via GDRFA (General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs) in Dubai or the respective immigration authority in other emirates.
- Attach required documents, including:
- Passport copies of sponsor and family member
- Sponsor’s residence visa copy
- Attested marriage certificate (for spouse) or birth certificates (for children)
- Recent passport-sized photographs of the family member
- Tenancy contract/Ejari as proof of accommodation
- Salary certificate or labor contract
3. Arrival and Medical Fitness Test
Once the family member arrives in the UAE, they must undergo a medical fitness test at an authorized visa screening center. This test includes:
- Blood tests
- Chest X-ray (for adults)
4. Health Insurance (Daman)
In Abu Dhabi, health insurance is mandatory. You will need to apply for a health insurance policy, such as Daman Insurance, for your family member.
5. Emirates ID Application
After passing the medical test and securing health insurance, apply for an Emirates ID via the ICP. The steps include:
- Submit the application online or at a typing center.
- Pay the applicable fees.
6. Biometric Data Collection
The sponsored family member must visit the Federal Identity Authority to provide their fingerprints and other biometric data.
7. Residence Visa Stamping
Submit all the required documents to the immigration authority to apply for the residence visa. These include:
- Passport of the family member
- Medical fitness test results
- Emirates ID application receipt
- Health insurance card or policy
Immigration authorities typically grant residence visa approval on the same day, and they deliver the Emirates ID within 2-3 working days.
Expenses for Family Visa in the UAE
Below is an approximate breakdown of the costs:
- Entry Permit Fee: AED 500 to AED 1,200 (depending on urgency and visa type)
- Medical Fitness Test: AED 300 to AED 500
- Emirates ID Application: AED 370 (for a one-year ID; varies for longer durations)
- Visa Stamping Fee: AED 600 to AED 700
- Typing Center Charges: AED 100 to AED 150
- Additional Costs:
- Attestation of marriage/birth certificates: AED 150 to AED 200 per document
- Health insurance (mandatory in some emirates): AED 700 to AED 2,000 per person annually
Key Points to Remember
- Sponsorship for Sons Over 18: Proof of education is required for sons over 18 years studying abroad.
- Parent Sponsorship: Sponsors must show a minimum monthly salary of AED 20,000 or AED 19,000 with accommodation. Additionally, proof of no one else available to care for the parents is required.
- Visa Validity: Family visas are generally issued for 1-2 years and must be renewed before expiry.
Conclusion
Sponsoring family members in the UAE involves a systematic process with specific requirements and costs. By adhering to the steps outlined above and ensuring all documents are properly prepared, UAE expats can successfully reunite with their loved ones and enjoy a fulfilling life together in this vibrant country.
You should read this also: UAE Residents Can Sponsor Friends and Relatives for 90-Day Visits Through Online Service
