Author: Hanoof Al Naama
Published: February 14, 2025
Updated on: Nov 27, 2025
Dubai is a city that attracts people from all over the globe, offering opportunities for career growth, business, and a high standard of living. If you are planning to move to Dubai or are already residing there, you may wish to bring your family along. To do this legally, you'll need to secure dependent visas for your family members. This comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know about dependent visas in Dubai, including the requirements, costs, and renewal processes, while exploring the role of the GDRFA unified number.
A dependent visa allows expatriates residing in Dubai to sponsor their immediate family members, such as spouses, children, or parents, to live with them. This visa is an essential document that grants legal residency to dependents, enabling them to access services like healthcare, education, and banking.
To obtain a dependent visa, sponsors must meet certain eligibility criteria and adhere to the UAE's visa regulations. Sponsors can include individuals employed in Dubai, entrepreneurs, or investors holding valid residency permits.
To successfully apply for a dependent visa in Dubai, sponsors must meet the following requirements:
The sponsor must hold a valid UAE residency visa.
A minimum monthly income of AED 4,000 (or AED 3,000 plus accommodation) is required to sponsor dependents.
Official documents like attested marriage or birth certificates are necessary to prove your relationship with the dependent.
The sponsor must provide a tenancy contract (Ejari) as proof of suitable housing.
Dependents aged 18 and above must undergo and pass a medical fitness test.
Approval from the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) is mandatory. The GDRFA unified number, a unique identifier assigned to every UAE resident, plays a key role in this process.
The application process for a dependent visa involves several steps:
Gather essential documents, including passport copies of the sponsor and dependents, sponsor's residency visa, salary certificate, tenancy contract, and attested relationship certificates.
Apply through the GDRFA's online portal or authorised typing centres. Ensure all details, including the GDRFA unified number, are accurate.
Visa application fees vary based on the duration of the visa (1, 2, or 3 years).
Dependents over 18 must undergo a medical fitness test at an approved centre.
After GDRFA approval, apply for an Emirates ID for each dependent.
Upon completion of all formalities, the dependent visa will be stamped in the dependent's passport.
The cost of dependent visa in Dubai depends on several factors, including the duration of the visa and the type of dependent. Typical costs include:
AED 100 to AED 300 per dependent.
Approximately AED 250 to AED 350.
Typing and processing fees may range from AED 200 to AED 500.
These figures are subject to change, so it is advisable to check the latest fees on the GDRFA website or consult an authorised typing centre.
At times, you may need to cancel a dependent visa, such as when your dependent plans to leave the UAE permanently or switch to another visa type. The process for cancelling dependent visa Dubai involves:
Ensure that the dependent exits the country within the grace period after visa cancellation to avoid fines.
Renewing a dependent visa in Dubai is a straightforward process but must be done before the visa's expiry to avoid penalties. The dependent visa renewal process is as follows:
Apply for renewal through the GDRFA portal or an authorised typing centre.
Dependents aged 18 and above must pass a new medical fitness test.
Fees for renewal are similar to the initial application costs.
The renewed visa will be stamped in the dependent's passport.
Late renewal incurs fines of AED 25 per day, so timely action is crucial.
The GDRFA unified number is an essential component of the UAE's immigration and residency system. Assigned to each resident, this unique identifier is required for various visa-related services, including dependent visa applications, renewals, and cancellations. Ensure that the unified number is entered accurately to avoid delays in processing.
If you are unsure about locating your unified number, you can find it on your residency visa sticker or Emirates ID.
Keep all necessary documents, such as attested certificates and passport copies, ready in advance.
Ensure your salary and accommodation meet the required thresholds.
Regularly check GDRFA guidelines for any changes in visa regulations or fees.
Mark renewal dates to avoid penalties and ensure a seamless process.
If you are unsure about the process, consult with an authorised typing centre or visa consultancy service.
Obtaining a dependent visa in Dubai is a vital step for expatriates wishing to bring their families to the UAE. Understanding the requirements, processes, and costs—including the importance of the GDRFA unified number—can make the experience smoother and stress-free.
From initial applications to renewals and cancellations, each step demands careful attention to detail. By staying informed and prepared, you can ensure that your loved ones enjoy the benefits of living in Dubai with you. If you need assistance with the process or have questions about specific requirements, consider reaching out to professionals who specialise in visa services.
If you found this guide helpful and need further support with dependent visas or other residency-related services, don't hesitate to contact us for expert assistance.
A dependent visa allows expatriates residing in Dubai to sponsor their immediate family members, such as spouses, children, or parents, to live with them. This visa grants legal residency to dependents, enabling them to access services like healthcare, education, and banking.
Key requirements include:
Typical costs include:
The GDRFA unified number is a unique identifier assigned to each UAE resident. It is required for various visa-related services, including dependent visa applications, renewals, and cancellations. The unified number can be found on your residency visa sticker or Emirates ID.
To cancel a dependent visa:
The renewal process involves:
Late renewal incurs fines of AED 25 per day.
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