The UAE's status as a global hub is strengthened by its diverse, multicultural population and its expat-friendly policies, which attract people from around the world. For expatriates, family reunification is not just a matter of convenience but a crucial aspect of their well-being and stability. Being able to reside with their loved ones in a foreign land fosters emotional support and a sense of belonging, enabling expatriates to build a harmonious life in the UAE.
Given the constant evolution of residency regulations, it is vital for expatriates to stay updated on the latest family visa requirements and costs. With 2025 introducing newer rules and restructured fees, understanding these changes is crucial for anyone planning to sponsor their family members. This ensures a seamless application process and helps expatriates effectively plan their finances and legal obligations.
Recent Updates and Policy Changes in 2025
The UAE has implemented several progressive changes to family visa regulations that significantly enhance accessibility for expatriate workers. The most notable transformation has been the elimination of profession-based restrictions for family sponsorship, a policy shift that took effect following earlier reforms in 2019. This change means that any foreign worker who meets the minimum salary threshold can now sponsor their family members, regardless of their job title or professional category.
The introduction of the Green Visa system represents another substantial advancement in 2025, allowing skilled workers to sponsor themselves for up to five years without requiring a company sponsor. This development creates additional flexibility for family sponsorship arrangements, as it provides alternative pathways for maintaining legal residency status. The Green Visa particularly benefits professionals who may transition between employers or pursue entrepreneurial ventures while maintaining their family's residence status.
Furthermore, the government has streamlined application procedures, with family members now required to apply for their residence visa within 60 days of arriving in the UAE. This extended timeframe provides families with adequate opportunity to complete necessary documentation and medical examinations without unnecessary pressure. The policy updates also maintain clear guidelines for visa renewal processes, ensuring that families can plan for long-term residence with greater certainty.
Documents Required for Dubai Family Residence Visa
1. Passport Copies
Provide clear copies of the passports for the sponsor and all family members applying for the visa. Ensure the passports have a validity of at least six months.
2. Sponsor’s UAE Residence Visa and Emirates ID Copy
Provide clear copies of the passports for the sponsor and all family members applying for the visa. Ensure the passports have a validity of at least six months.
A copy of the sponsor's valid UAE residence visa and Emirates ID is required.
3. Passport-Sized Photographs
Recent passport-sized photographs of the family members applying for the visa, following UAE guidelines for photo specifications.
4. Marriage Certificate
If sponsoring a spouse, a copy of the marriage certificate is necessary. The certificate must be attested by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) and translated into Arabic if originally issued in another language.
5. Birth Certificates
For children, copies of birth certificates are required. These must also be attested by MOFA and translated into Arabic if necessary.
6. Tenancy Contract or Ejari Registration Certificate
A valid tenancy contract or Ejari certificate under the sponsor's name, demonstrating adequate accommodation in the UAE.
7. Salary Certificate or Labour Contract
Sponsors employed in the private sector need to provide their labour contracts, while those in government jobs may present a salary certificate. This document should confirm the sponsor meets the minimum salary requirements for sponsoring family members.
8. Medical Insurance
Proof of valid health insurance coverage for all family members being sponsored is mandatory.
9. Medical Fitness Test Reports
Family members aged 18 and above must undergo medical fitness tests at authorised UAE medical centres. These tests generally include screenings for HIV and tuberculosis (chest x-ray included). A clear medical test result is required for visa approval.
Tips for Documentation
Attestation and Translation
Any legal documents such as marriage or birth certificates issued outside the UAE must be attested by the issuing country’s authorities, the UAE Embassy in the respective country, and finally by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Additionally, documents not issued in Arabic should be translated by certified legal translators into Arabic.
Advance Preparation
Start the attestation and translation processes well in advance, as they can be time-consuming. Ensure all documents are properly stamped and meet UAE requirements to avoid delays in the application process.
Accuracy in Submission
Double-check all documents for accuracy, validity, and consistency of information (e.g., names and dates) to prevent complications during application processing. Having all these documents prepared and meeting the outlined requirements will help streamline the application process for a Dubai family residence visa.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Entry Permit Application
The first step in applying for a Dubai family residence visa is obtaining an entry permit. This can be completed online through the
GDRFA Dubai portal or in person at authorised Amer centres. Ensure you fill out the application accurately and attach the required documents, such as passports, sponsor details, and tenancy contracts. For offline applications, visit an Amer centre for assistance with processing.
Medical Fitness Test
Once the entry permit is issued and the family member has entered the UAE, the next step is completing the mandatory medical fitness test. Schedule an appointment at a government-approved medical centre or clinic. It’s advisable to choose a centre that is conveniently located and offers fast processing times. Bring original identification documents for verification, and expect results within one to two working days, depending on the medical centre you choose.
Emirates ID Application
After the medical test, apply for the Emirates ID through the ICA or
ICP app or by visiting an Amer centre. The application requires the medical fitness certificate, a valid passport, and documents proving residence and sponsorship. During this process, you will also book an appointment for biometric data capture. It’s worth checking if the Emirates Post nearby offers delivery services for Emirates IDs to save time.
Visa Stamping
The final step is the visa stamping process, which finalises the family member’s residence visa. Submit all necessary documents, including the entry permit, Emirates ID application, and medical test results, either through the GDRFA Dubai online portal or at an Amer centre. The stamped visa will be sent electronically to the applicant's email or updated automatically in their passport.
Tips and Recommendations
- Use official government platforms such as the GDRFA Dubai portal or ICA app for quicker application processes.
- Check the Dubai Now app to track application statuses and receive updates in real-time.
- For faster Emirates ID delivery, coordinate directly with Emirates Post and provide accurate address details.
- If visiting medical centres, booking an appointment in advance can help reduce waiting times.
Dubai Family Visa Cost Breakdown (2025)
To ensure cost transparency, here is a detailed breakdown of the expenses associated with a Dubai family visa:
- Visa Fee Range: AED 2,500–3,500
- Medical Test Costs: AED 500–700
- Emirates ID Fees: AED 370 for a 2-year visa
- Other Charges: File Opening Fees + Potential Status Change Fees (AED 750 if applicable)
Please note: Costs may vary slightly depending on the emirate and the specific type of visa being applied for. It is advisable to double-check with official sources for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Minimum Salary Requirements and Sponsorship Rules
To sponsor family members in the UAE, specific minimum salary thresholds must be met by the sponsor. Generally, a salary of AED 4,000 per month is required, or AED 3,000 if accommodation is provided by the employer. These thresholds ensure the sponsor has adequate financial means to support their dependents.
Sponsorship Rules for Family Members
Children: A sponsor can bring their children into the UAE, so long as they are under the age of 25 years. Male children over 25 are generally ineligible unless they have specific allowances under exceptional cases. Unmarried daughters, however, can be sponsored without any age limit.
Parents: Sponsoring parents comes with additional financial and documentation requirements. The sponsor must demonstrate sufficient income, typically higher than the standard thresholds, to support their parents. Additionally, there is a requirement to pay a refundable deposit (specific to each emirate) and mandatory medical insurance must be arranged for both parents.
Female expatriates face higher salary thresholds, requiring a minimum monthly income of AED 10,000, or AED 8,000 if accommodation is provided. While this disparity reflects traditional approaches to family sponsorship, the UAE continues to evaluate these requirements as part of ongoing modernization efforts. The higher threshold for female sponsors acknowledges the additional responsibilities often associated with primary family support roles in expatriate communities.
For sponsors seeking to bring elderly parents to the UAE, the requirements increase substantially to AED 20,000 per month. This elevated threshold reflects the additional healthcare and support considerations associated with elderly dependents. However, sponsors can explore alternative arrangements through investment-based visa categories, such as property investment options that may provide different pathways for extended family sponsorship.
Sponsors are advised to verify the latest rules and regulations as they might vary slightly depending on the emirate and prevailing policies. Adhering to these requirements ensures smooth processing and approval of family sponsorship applications.
FAQs
Can mothers sponsor children?
Yes, mothers can sponsor their children under specific conditions. A mother must prove her financial stability and provide a valid residency visa. Additionally, she must submit documentation such as a birth certificate, tenancy contract, and a no-objection certificate from her husband if applicable. Sponsorship eligibility may vary depending on specific emirate rules.
What is the process for sponsoring stepchildren?
To sponsor stepchildren, the sponsor must provide a marriage certificate, proof of child custody, and written consent from the biological parent. Sponsors are also required to meet minimum salary requirements and may need to pay an additional security deposit for the stepchild’s residency visa.
What happens if a sponsor's visa expires?
If a sponsor’s visa expires, the visas of their dependents will also become invalid. Sponsors are advised to renew their residency visas in a timely manner to prevent disruptions to their dependents’ legal status. A grace period is typically offered, allowing for the renewal of visas before penalties apply.
