Relocating to the UAE with your loved ones is a dream for many expatriates. The country offers a safe environment, strong infrastructure, and excellent career opportunities. To bring your family, you need a Family Visa UAE, which allows spouses, children, and other dependents to live legally in the Emirates.
Understanding the Family Visa in the UAE
1. What is a UAE family visa?
A family visa in the UAE is a residence permit that allows expatriates to sponsor their dependents. It is tied to the sponsor’s residency and remains valid as long as the sponsor maintains legal status in the UAE.
2. Why families choose the UAE for relocation
Families choose the UAE because of high-quality education, modern healthcare, and multicultural living standards. The family visa makes it easier for expatriates to live together while working or doing business in the country.
Who Can Apply for a Family Visa in the UAE?
1. Eligibility for employees
Expat employees with a valid residence visa can sponsor their spouse and children if they meet the income requirement and have suitable accommodation.
2. Eligibility for business owners and investors
Entrepreneurs and investors with valid trade licenses can sponsor their dependents. This option is attractive to those running companies in free zones or on the mainland.
3. Special cases: freelancers and women as sponsors
Freelancers holding a residence permit can also sponsor family members if they meet the minimum income threshold. Women in certain professions are allowed to sponsor their children and spouse, provided they meet the required salary conditions.
Salary and Eligibility Criteria for Sponsors
1. Minimum income requirements
To apply for a Family Visa UAE, the sponsor must earn at least AED 4,000 per month or AED 3,000 plus accommodation. Certain cases, such as sponsoring parents, may require a higher income.
2. Housing and accommodation rules
The sponsor must provide proof of suitable housing. A tenancy contract or accommodation letter from the employer is often required.
3. Other conditions to qualify as a sponsor
The sponsor must hold a valid residence visa, have a clean legal record, and be able to support the family financially throughout their stay.
Who Can Be Sponsored Under Family Visa UAE?
1. Spouse and children
Both husbands and wives can sponsor their spouses if they meet the eligibility criteria. Children under 18 years are eligible, and in some cases, male children up to 25 years can be sponsored if they are still studying.
2. Parents and in-laws
Expatriates can sponsor their parents if they meet higher salary requirements and provide proof of housing. In-laws can be sponsored with special approvals.
3. Other dependents (special approvals)
In rare situations, dependents like stepchildren or extended relatives may be sponsored, subject to approval from immigration authorities.
Documents Needed for Family Visa UAE
1. Mandatory documents from the sponsor
- A passport copy and the residence visa of the sponsor
- Emirates ID
- Salary certificate or labor contract
- Proof of accommodation (Ejari or tenancy contract)
2. Dependent’s required documents
- Passport copies of dependents
- Recent photographs (passport size, white background)
- Marriage certificate (for spouse sponsorship)
- Birth certificate (for children sponsorship)
3. Health checks and insurance requirements
All dependents above 18 must pass a medical fitness test at an authorized UAE health center. In addition, health insurance is mandatory for family visa approval in most Emirates.
Step-by-Step Process for Family Visa UAE
1. Collecting and preparing documents
Ensure all required documents are valid, attested, and translated if needed.
2. Applying for the entry permit
The sponsor must apply for an entry permit, which allows dependents to legally enter the UAE.
3. Completing medical fitness tests
Dependents above 18 years old must undergo medical tests for infectious diseases.
4. Emirates ID registration process
Submit biometrics and documents to apply for the Emirates ID.
5. Residence visa stamping on the passport
Once approved, the residence visa is stamped on the dependent’s passport.
Family Visa UAE Validity and Renewal
1. Standard validity periods (1, 2, or 3 years)
Family visas are usually valid for 1, 2, or 3 years, depending on the sponsor’s visa type.
2. Renewal timelines and requirements
Renewals must be initiated before expiry to avoid fines. The process is similar to the initial application but faster.
3. Penalties for late renewal
Overstaying without renewal may result in fines and potential cancellation of the visa.
Cost of Family Visa UAE in 2025
1. Government fees and service charges
The cost of a Family Visa UAE ranges between AED 3,000 to AED 7,000, depending on the number of dependents and visa type.
2. Health insurance and medical test costs
Medical fitness tests typically cost around AED 300–500. Health insurance packages vary depending on coverage.
3. Renewal and cancellation fees
Renewal fees are generally lower than the initial application fees. Cancellation of a family visa also involves small government charges.
Sponsor Your Family in the UAE with Ripple LLC
Bringing your family to the UAE is one of the most rewarding decisions you can make. With the recent updates to family visa rules, both residents and business owners now have greater flexibility in sponsoring their loved ones, ensuring a smooth and secure relocation.
At Ripple Business Setup, we know how important family is. Whether you’re sponsoring your spouse, children, or parents, our team ensures the process is straightforward and hassle-free. From handling documentation to managing approvals, we take care of every detail so you can focus on what matters most: building a happy life together in the UAE.
Our experts provide complete guidance on the family visa application process, offering personalized support tailored to your situation. With Ripple Business Setup by your side, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that every step is professionally managed.
- 📞: +971 4 394 0800
- 📧: info@ripplellc.ae
- 🌐: www.ripplellc.ae
FAQ
1. Can women sponsor family members in the UAE?
Yes, women can sponsor their children and spouse if they meet the salary requirement and hold an eligible profession.
2. How long does the family visa process take?
The process usually takes 2 to 4 weeks, depending on approvals and document verification.
3. What if my salary is below the requirement?
In such cases, you cannot sponsor dependents. However, some Emirates allow special approvals in exceptional situations.
4. Can parents be sponsored on a family visa?
Yes, but it requires a higher income and proof of accommodation.
5. What happens if my family visa expires?
If the visa is not renewed, it may lead to fines and cancellation. Dependents will lose their legal residency status.
Conclusion
A Family Visa UAE is the key to bringing your loved ones closer while you build a life in the Emirates. By meeting the requirements, preparing documents carefully, and following the process step by step, you can secure a smooth approval. With the right guidance, the entire journey becomes stress-free, ensuring your family enjoys a safe and happy life in the UAE.