The UAE is home to a diverse population with residents from all over the world. For many expatriates working in the UAE, bringing their family members to join them is an essential part of building a life in the country. The UAE Family Visa is the key to bringing spouses, children, and sometimes other family members to live in the UAE.
This guide will walk you through the entire process of obtaining a UAE family visa, the eligibility criteria, required documents, and key details you need to know to successfully apply.
What Is the UAE Family Visa?
The UAE Family Visa is a type of residency visa that allows expatriates working in the UAE to sponsor their family members for residence. The family members typically include spouses, children, and in some cases, parents or other dependents.
The UAE family visa offers the opportunity for families to live together in the UAE while the primary applicant (sponsor) works in the country. This visa is generally issued for 1 to 3 years, depending on the employment status of the sponsor, and can be renewed.
Who Can Be Sponsored on a UAE Family Visa?
The UAE Family Visa is not limited to spouses and children alone. The eligibility for sponsoring other family members can vary depending on specific conditions. Here’s a breakdown of who you can sponsor under the UAE family visa:
1. Spouse
- A male expatriate can sponsor his wife.
- A female expatriate can sponsor her husband, but there are certain requirements, such as a minimum salary level.
2. Children
- Dependent children under the age of 18 can be sponsored.
- Male children above 18 can only be sponsored if they are enrolled in full-time education, or if they are physically or mentally disabled.
- Female children can be sponsored regardless of age if they are unmarried.
3. Parents and In-laws
- Expats in the UAE can sponsor their parents if they meet certain income requirements and provide proof of the need for support.
- Some emirates have stricter rules regarding sponsoring parents or in-laws.
4. Other Dependents
- Other family members, such as siblings, may be eligible for sponsorship under specific circumstances, particularly if they are financially dependent on the sponsor.
Eligibility Criteria for Sponsoring Your Family in the UAE
To sponsor your family for a UAE family visa, the sponsor (the working expat) must meet the following requirements:
1. Employment Status
- You must have a valid residency visa for the UAE and be employed in a full-time job. The sponsor must be on a work visa or resident permit. Freelancers may also be eligible to sponsor family members if their visa and income meet the requirements.
2. Minimum Salary Requirement
- A minimum salary requirement is generally imposed for sponsoring family members. The salary threshold can vary depending on the emirate and the number of people being sponsored.
- For example, in Dubai, a male sponsor needs to earn a minimum salary of AED 4,000 to sponsor a wife, and AED 3,000 for children. In some cases, the salary requirement may go higher depending on the number of dependents.
3. Accommodation
- The sponsor must provide proof of adequate accommodation for their family. This could be a rented apartment or home that meets the minimum space requirements (e.g., having a bedroom for each married couple).
4. Health Insurance
- Family members will need health insurance coverage, and the sponsor must ensure that they are covered by a health insurance plan. In some emirates like Dubai, health insurance for family members is mandatory.
