A Complete Guide to Sponsoring Family Members for a Dubai Residence Visa

The UAE has become one of the most sought-after destinations for individuals and families looking to start a new chapter in life. Thousands of expats move to the UAE every year to advance their careers, and once settled, many look to bring their loved ones to join them. If you are a resident of Dubai and wish to sponsor your family for a residence visa, here’s everything you need to know about the process and requirements.

Eligibility to Sponsor Family Members for a Residence Visa in Dubai

To sponsor a family member in Dubai, certain criteria must be met. Here’s an overview of the key requirements:

Minimum Salary Requirement

• For spouse and children: Expats must have a minimum salary of AED 4,000.
• For parents: Expats must earn a salary of at least AED 10,000 and have a 2-bedroom hall tenancy contract or lease agreement to sponsor their parents.

Age and Medical Requirements

• All individuals over the age of 18 are required to undergo a medical fitness test as part of the residency visa process.
• Newborns must have a residency visa application submitted within 120 days of birth to avoid penalties.

Housing

The sponsor must have adequate accommodation, either in a rented apartment or villa, and provide proof of housing when processing the visa application.

Employment Status

To sponsor family members, the sponsor must be employed or own a business in the UAE.

Family Sponsorship Types

• Spouse and Children: The sponsor can bring their spouse and children as long as the above criteria are met.
  • The residency visa duration for children is typically the same as the sponsor’s, usually between one to ten years.
  • The sponsor must provide proof of marriage (attested marriage certificate) and birth certificates for children.
• Sponsoring Parents: Expats must meet the minimum salary requirements of AED 10,000 and provide medical insurance for both parents.
  • Parents must be sponsored together, and proof must be provided that the sponsor is their sole financial supporter.
• Sponsoring Stepchildren: Expats can sponsor stepchildren under specific conditions, including a written no-objection certificate from the biological parent.

Documents Required for Sponsorship

To ensure a smooth application process, gather all required documents before visiting the GDRFA (General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs) or a typing center. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Visa application form (online or through a typing office)
2. Passport copies of family members
3. Recent passport photos of family members
4. Medical clearance certificate for individuals above 18 years
5. Employment contract or company contract of the sponsor
6. Salary certificate from the sponsor’s employer
7. Attested marriage certificate for spouse sponsorship
8. Attested birth certificates for children
9. Registered tenancy contract for proof of accommodation

Visa Application Process

1. Apply Online or In-Person: You can apply for a residence visa through the GDRFA website for Dubai or through the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICA) for other emirates. Alternatively, you can visit Amer Centers or typing centers for assistance with the application.
2. Pay Visa Fees: The family visa processing fees include:
   • Open Sponsor File: AED 250
   • Entry Visa Issuance: AED 1125
   • Inside Country Fees: AED 680
   • Residence Visa: AED 510
3. Medical Fitness Test: All family members above 18 must complete a medical fitness test, which includes screening for diseases such as HIV, tuberculosis, and Hepatitis. Test centers are available across the UAE.
4. Obtain Emirates ID: After passing the medical examination, apply for the Emirates ID. The standard cost for an Emirates ID is AED 390.

Residence Visa Validity and Renewal

Family residency visas are usually tied to the sponsor’s visa and can be issued for periods of one to three years. When it’s time for renewal, it’s essential to start the process ahead of the expiration date to avoid fines or overstaying penalties.

Conclusion

Sponsoring your family for a residence visa in Dubai is a relatively straightforward process, but it requires careful planning and adherence to legal requirements. By ensuring you meet the necessary salary and accommodation criteria, as well as gathering all required documents, you can bring your loved ones to join you in the UAE.

Stay informed about the latest regulations and make sure to follow all the steps to ensure a smooth application process. For more details, check out the official resources from the GDRFA and ICA.