Family Sponsorship with UAE Residence Visa

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is home to a large expatriate community who relocate for work, business, or investment opportunities. One of the biggest concerns for expats is bringing their loved ones to live with them. Thankfully, the UAE allows residents to sponsor their immediate family members under certain conditions. Understanding the eligibility criteria, documentation, and process for family sponsorship with a UAE residence visa can make this journey much smoother.

Who Can Sponsor Family Members?

In the UAE, expatriates holding a valid residence visa can sponsor their spouse, children, and, in some cases, parents. Both employees and business owners with residence visas are eligible to sponsor their families. However, the sponsorship depends on meeting specific salary and accommodation requirements.

• Employees: A minimum monthly salary of AED 4,000, or AED 3,000 plus accommodation, is typically required.

• Investors/Business Owners: Can sponsor their families if they hold a valid UAE residence visa linked to their business license.

It’s important to note that mothers can sponsor children in certain circumstances, but the rules are stricter and require special approval.

Eligible Family Members

• Spouse: A resident can sponsor their legally wedded spouse. A valid marriage certificate, attested by the UAE authorities, is mandatory.

• Children: Male children can be sponsored up to the age of 25, while female children can be sponsored until marriage. Special provisions apply to children with disabilities, allowing indefinite sponsorship.

• Parents: Residents may sponsor their parents, but this requires a higher minimum salary and proof of sole responsibility for their care.

Required Documents

To apply for family sponsorship under a UAE residence visa, the following documents are usually required:

• Passport copies of the sponsor and family members

• Recent passport-size photographs

• Attested marriage certificate for spouse sponsorship

• Attested birth certificates for children

• Salary certificate or labor contract for employees

• Tenancy contract or accommodation proof

• Emirates ID and residence visa copy of the sponsor

Authorities may request additional documents depending on the case.

Process of Family Sponsorship

1. Entry Permit: Apply for an entry permit for family members through the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICP) or GDRFA.

2. Medical Fitness Test: Spouse and children above 18 must undergo a medical test in the UAE.

3. Emirates ID Application: Once medical results are cleared, apply for Emirates ID.

4. Visa Stamping: Submit documents for residence visa stamping on the family member’s passport.

The entire process usually takes a few weeks, depending on documentation and approvals.

Duration and Renewal

Family residence visas are typically valid for 1–2 years for employees and up to 3 years for investors. The visa duration is tied to the sponsor’s residence visa. Renewals must be done before expiration to avoid fines or cancellation.

Final Thoughts

Family sponsorship with a UAE residence visa ensures that expatriates can live with their loved ones while working or doing business in the country. By meeting the eligibility criteria, preparing documents, and following the required procedures, you can bring your spouse, children, and parents to live in the UAE with you.