Family/Dependent Visa
Residency for family members sponsored by UAE resident
Duration
Varies by sponsor (1-10 years)
Property Threshold
Not required
Processing
1-3 weeks per family member
Estimated Cost
AED 100-500 per person (variable by emirate)
This is general informational content. Visa rules, fees and procedures change regularly. Consult official GDRFA sources or licensed immigration lawyers for current, specific guidance applicable to your situation.
Eligibility
- ✓Sponsored by UAE resident (employment, investor, or retiree visa holder)
- ✓Spouse, children (under 25 for sons without income), or parents
- ✓Medical fitness
- ✓Minimum age requirements (18+ for marriage sponsors)
Requirements
- •Sponsor's valid residency/employment visa
- •Sponsor's salary certificate (minimum AED 3,500)
- •Family relationship documents (marriage cert, birth cert, etc.)
- •Medical fitness for all family members
- •Passport copies
- •Sponsor's accommodation proof
- •Sponsor's bank balance or savings account
Key Benefits
- ★Residency tied to principal sponsor
- ★Children access to UAE schools and healthcare
- ★Family unit can work or study
- ★Access to UAE banking and insurance
- ★Renewal with principal sponsor
Application Process
1. Principal sponsor confirms employment/residency
2. Sponsor obtains family documents (marriage, birth certificates)
3. Get documents attested by UAE embassy in home country
4. Submit application with sponsor's employment details
5. Medical fitness examination for all applicants
6. Biometric registration
7. Background check
8. Visa issuance to family members
Renewal Terms
Renewed with principal sponsor. If sponsor leaves UAE or visa cancelled, family visa affected. Children over 25 require alternative sponsorship.
Limitations & Considerations
- ⚠Visa validity tied to sponsor
- ⚠Sponsor must meet minimum salary threshold
- ⚠Sponsor must provide accommodation for family
- ⚠Limited to nuclear family (spouse + children)
Who This Visa is Best For
- • All nationalities
- • Popular for all expat categories