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Family / Dependent Visa for Dubai - Types, Requirements, Cost, and Application Process

Duration

1 to 3 years (renewable)

Eligibility
  • Available for individuals holding a valid UAE residency visa (employment, freelance, or investor visa).
  • The sponsor can sponsor their spouse, children, and, in some cases, parents (subject to meeting salary criteria for dependent sponsorship).

 

Salary Requirements for Sponsoring Family
  • Spouse: Minimum monthly salary of AED 4,000 (or AED 3,000 + accommodation).
  • Children: Minimum salary requirement of AED 4,000 or more.
  • Parents: The sponsor must earn at least AED 20,000 per month to be eligible for dependent sponsorship.

 

How to Apply
  • The sponsor must apply for the visa through the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in Dubai or other approved service centers.
  • Applications can be submitted online or via the GDRFA portal.
  • Supporting documents for the spouse, children, or parents being sponsored must be submitted for visa processing.

 

Cost
  • Visa Processing Fee: AED 1,500 – AED 3,000 (depending on visa type and family composition).
  • Medical Test & Emirates ID: AED 800 – AED 1,500.
  • Visa Stamping & Medical Insurance: Costs vary based on the family size and selected insurance provider.

🚨 Note: Visa fees are subject to change based on the visa type and specific requirements. Always confirm the current fees with GDRFA or an authorized center before applying.

 

Documentation Required
  • Passport copies of both the sponsor and the dependents (valid for at least 6 months).
  • Marriage certificate (for spouse).
  • Birth certificates (for children).
  • Proof of income (salary certificate or bank statements).
  • Proof of accommodation (e.g., tenancy contract, utility bill).
  • Valid health insurance for the dependents (mandatory).
  • Emirates ID of the sponsor.

 

Processing Time

7 to 10 working days (depending on document verification and processing speed).

 

Extension & Renewal
  • Renewable every 1 to 3 years based on the sponsor’s residency status and ongoing eligibility.
  • It is crucial to ensure that the sponsor’s visa remains valid to avoid any disruption in the dependents’ residency status.

 

Additional Notes
  • Dependents under 18 years old can be sponsored under this visa.
  • Children over 18 may be sponsored if they are enrolled in education or still financially dependent on the sponsor.
  • Parents can be sponsored if the sponsor meets the required salary threshold.
  • Dependents can live, work, and study in the UAE during the visa’s validity period.


 Living in Dubai, I can say that the Family / Dependent Visa has been a life changer for me and many of my friends. It brings families together and ensures they can enjoy the lifestyle, healthcare, and security that Dubai offers. Whether it’s bringing your spouse, kids, or even parents over, this visa makes it easy to make Dubai your family’s home as well. It’s a smooth process as long as the requirements are met, and once approved, it’s a huge relief to have loved ones around while working or doing business here.