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Family Visa

Sponsorship Eligibility: Who Can Sponsor Family in the UAE?

Obtaining a UAE Family Visa allows residents to sponsor their dependents. Here’s a breakdown of the eligibility criteria:

  • Minimum Salary:
    • Men: Must earn a minimum of AED 4,000 per month or AED 3,000 per month with additional accommodation provided.
    • Women: Require a minimum monthly salary of AED 10,000 or AED 8,000 with accommodation.
  • Medical Fitness: All family members above 18 must undergo a medical test at a government-approved UAE health center, typically involving HIV and Tuberculosis screening.
  • Relationship Recognition: Sponsorship is currently limited to spouses and dependent children. Same-sex marriage is not recognized in the UAE, and sponsoring a partner in a same-sex relationship is not possible.

Additional Considerations:

  • Specific requirements may vary depending on your employment situation and visa type.
  • Sponsors are responsible for ensuring their dependents have suitable housing (proven through Ejari).

Remember: This information is for general guidance only. Consulting with immigration specialists is recommended for the latest updates and a personalized assessment of your eligibility.

Eligible Professions: Does Your Job Affect Family Sponsorship?

Great news! Since 2019, your profession no longer directly impacts your eligibility to sponsor family members for a UAE Family Visa. As long as you meet the minimum salary requirements outlined in the previous section, your job title won’t hinder the application process.

However, a few exceptions exist:

  • Women sponsoring families: Specific professions might be required for women seeking to sponsor their husbands and children. This typically involves working in the medical field (doctor, nurse) or holding a teaching position.
  • Employment type: Your employment contract and visa type may influence your eligibility. Consulting with immigration specialists is recommended for a comprehensive assessment.

Key Takeaway: Meeting the minimum salary requirement is the primary factor for most foreign workers seeking to sponsor their families in the UAE.

Who Can You Sponsor for a UAE Family Visa?

The UAE Family Visa program allows residents to sponsor certain family members. Here’s a breakdown of who qualifies:

Spouses:

  • Men: Can sponsor their wives. In specific situations, Muslim men may sponsor two wives under strict conditions set by authorities.
  • Women: Sponsorship capabilities are generally limited. Exceptions might exist for certain professions like doctors, nurses, or teachers. Consulting with immigration specialists is recommended.

Children:

  • Sons: Sponsorship is possible up to 18 years old. Sponsorship for sons above 18 requires them to be full-time students under 21 and demonstrate consistent entry into the UAE (at least once every six months) if studying abroad.
  • Daughters: Sponsorship is available for unmarried daughters.

Parents:

  • Conditions Apply: Sponsorship requires fulfilling specific criteria:
    • Sponsoring both parents (unless one has passed away).
    • Providing a security deposit (subject to change; confirm with immigration authorities).
    • Securing medical insurance for your parents.
    • Meeting a minimum monthly salary requirement (AED 20,000 or AED 19,000 with suitable housing).

Stepchildren:

  • Sponsorship is possible with a written No Objection Certificate from the biological parent.
  • Stepchildren’s visas are typically valid for one year and renewable.

Important Note:

  • These are general guidelines. Specific requirements and exceptions may apply.
  • It’s crucial to consult with UAE immigration specialists for the latest information and a personalized assessment of your eligibility to sponsor family members.

Women Sponsoring Family in the UAE: Higher Requirements and Exceptions

While women can sponsor family members for a UAE Family Visa, the criteria are stricter compared to men:

  • Eligible Family Members: Sponsorship is typically limited to a husband and children.
  • Minimum Salary: A higher minimum monthly income is required (AED 10,000 or AED 8,000 with accommodation).
  • Preferred Professions: Sponsorship potential is generally stronger for women working in specific fields like engineering, teaching, or the medical sector (doctors, nurses, etc.).

Exceptions and Considerations:

  • Special Approval Cases: In rare instances, women with sufficient salary (subject to GDRFA approval) outside the preferred professions might be eligible for sponsorship.
  • Husband as Sponsor: If the husband meets the standard requirements, he would typically be the primary sponsor for the children.

Consulting Immigration Specialists:

Given the evolving regulations and potential exceptions, consulting with UAE immigration specialists is highly recommended for women seeking to sponsor their families. They can provide the latest information and guidance on eligibility based on your specific circumstances.

Key Takeaway: Understanding the stricter requirements and exploring potential exceptions through professional guidance is crucial for women navigating family sponsorship in the UAE.

Essential Documents for Your UAE Family Visa Application

Securing a UAE Family Visa requires a specific set of documents. Here’s a checklist to ensure you have everything prepared:

  • Application Form: Obtain the official UAE Family Visa application form. This can be completed online or through a registered typing office.
  • Family Member Passports: Provide clear copies of the passports for each family member you are sponsoring.
  • Passport-Sized Photos: Recent passport-sized photographs are required for all sponsored family members.
  • Medical Certificates: Individuals above 18 years old must submit medical clearance certificates obtained from government-approved health centers in the UAE.
  • Employment Proof: Sponsors need to present a copy of their employment contract or company contract.
  • Salary Proof: Provide documentation verifying your monthly salary to meet the minimum requirements.
  • Marriage Certificate: A legalized copy of your marriage certificate is mandatory.
  • Proof of Accommodation: Demonstrate suitable housing arrangements in the UAE through a registered tenancy contract (Ejari).
  • Utility Bill: A recent utility bill (water or electricity) serves as additional proof of your residence in the UAE.

Remember: This list serves as a general guide. Additional documents or specific requirements may apply depending on your situation.

UAE Family Visa Application Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

Bringing your family to the UAE requires following a specific application process. Here’s a breakdown of the key steps:

1. Timeliness is Key:

  • As a foreign resident, initiate the UAE Family Visa application within 60 days of receiving your own UAE Residence Visa.

2. Securing the Entry Permit:

  • Before your family’s arrival, you (or your employer) must obtain an entry permit allowing their entry into the UAE.

Entry Permit Application Options:

  • Online: Submit applications through the websites of the:
    • General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA)
    • Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA)
  • Mobile Apps: Utilize the GDRFA Dubai mobile app (iOS and Android) or the ICA’s eChannel mobile app (iOS and Android).
  • In-Person: Visit:
    • GDRFA offices in each Emirate
    • Licensed GDRFA typing centers
    • Amer centers in Dubai

3. Applying for the UAE Family Visa:

  • The Family Visa is a residence visa. You can apply after your family members enter the UAE with a valid entry permit.
  • Submit the application at the GDRFA office in the relevant Emirate where you reside.

Additional Considerations:

  • Consult with UAE immigration specialists for the latest information and personalized guidance throughout the process.
  • They can advise on any potential variations in requirements based on your specific circumstances.

Remember: This is a simplified overview. Consulting with professionals is essential to ensure a smooth and successful family visa application journey.

UAE Family Visa Costs and Validity

Breakdown of Family Visa Costs:

  • Variable Costs: The total cost depends on the specific visa type and additional services required. Here’s a general outline:
    • Sponsor Registration File: AED 268.90
    • Entry Permit (Wife/Children Outside UAE): AED 488.90
    • Entry Permit (Wife/Children Inside UAE): AED 1,138.90 (higher due to being already present)
    • Entry Permit (Parents Inside UAE): AED 488.90
    • Medical Test: AED 300
    • Emirates ID (Duration-Based): AED 375 (2 year) – AED 450 (3 years)
    • Residence Transfer to Passport: AED 259.90

Important Note: These are approximate fees, and additional charges may apply. Always consult with the relevant authorities for the most up-to-date cost information.

Family Visa Validity:

  • Duration: Family visas are typically issued for 1, 2, or 3 years.
  • Renewal: Renewal is possible at least 30 days before expiry.

Dependency and Grace Period:

  • Family visas are linked to the sponsor’s visa. If the sponsor’s visa expires or gets canceled, the family visas become invalid.
  • Dependent family members are granted a 30-day grace period to explore obtaining their own residence visa or make alternative arrangements.

Applying for a Family Visa in Dubai:

  • Requirements: Dubai adheres to the same sponsorship requirements as the rest of the UAE.
  • Application Options:
    • GDRFA Office: Submit your application in person at the local GDRFA office in Dubai.
    • Amer Website: Dubai residents and citizens can utilize the Amer website for family reunion applications.

Pro Tip: Consulting with UAE immigration specialists can provide you with personalized cost estimates and guidance on the application process specific to your situation.

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