Spouse and Dependents Visa Processing in UAE

Overview

The family visa in the UAE is a type of residency visa that allows the spouse and dependent children (under the age of 18) of a resident in the UAE to live with them in the country. The family visa is also sometimes referred to as a "dependent visa" or "sponsor visa."

Types of Family Visa

There are three main types of family visas available in the UAE:

Spouse Visa

Allows the spouse of a UAE resident to obtain residency in the country.

Child Visa

Allows dependent children of a UAE resident to obtain residency in the country.

Parent Visa

Allows parents of a UAE resident to obtain residency in the country.

Eligibility for Family Visa

Expatriate residents can sponsor their families to reside in the UAE if they meet the following requirements:

• Hold a valid residency visa as an investor, employee, or partner
• Meet the minimum salary requirement of at least AED 4,000 with accommodation
• Family members (both male and female) who are to be sponsored and have reached the age of 18 need to undergo and pass medical fitness tests at approved health centres in the UAE

Sponsoring Your Parents

An expatriate employee can sponsor both parents for a one-year stay by paying a deposit as a guarantee for each parent, as stipulated by the respective immigration department.

Important Requirements:

• It is mandatory that both parents are sponsored together
• Applicants are required to provide documentation proving sole financial responsibility
• Must prove that no other individuals are available to provide for the parents in their home country

Renewal of Family Visa

To renew a family visa in the UAE:

1. Submit an application with all required documents and fees to the relevant immigration authorities
2. Start the renewal process well before the visa expiry date
3. Processing times can vary and there may be additional requirements or delays

Important: Failure to renew the visa on time could result in penalties. It is advisable to seek professional assistance.

Cancellation of Family Visa

The family's residence permits are linked to the residence permit of the sponsoring family member.

Key Points:

• If the sponsoring family member's visa is cancelled, it requires cancellation of the visas of the dependents
• Dependents are granted a 2-month grace period from the date of expiry or cancellation of their visas to obtain a new residence permit
• If the sponsor fails to renew or cancel the visa of their dependents, they could be liable to pay a fine

How to Get a Residency Visa for Your Dependents

This visa service permits sponsorship of your parents, spouse, and children below 18 years of age.

Process Steps

1. Log into the SPC Free Zone Customer Portal
2. Submit your request with a physical Emirates ID and required documents
3. Settle your payment for processing
4. Receive the estimated timeline for your Visa
5. Get your Dependent Visa within 7-9 working days

Processing Time and Fees

Detail	Information
Processing Time	Less than 10 days (7-9 working days)
Fee per Dependent	AED 5,000
Deposit (if sponsor is investor)	AED 3,025

Documents Required to Get a Dependent Visa

Documents for Sponsoring Spouse and Children

• An application form (can be submitted online or at a registered typing office)
• Coloured passport copies for the spouse and children
• Photographs of the spouse and children
• A medical clearance certificate for the spouse and children aged 18 and above
• A copy of the sponsor's employment contract or company agreement
• A salary certificate from the employer confirming the sponsor's monthly income
• An attested marriage certificate (must be in English or in Arabic legal translation)
• A registered tenancy agreement

Key Notes If the Dependent is a Child

Sponsoring Sons

• A male or female resident can sponsor his/her son(s) until he is 25
• Sons of determination (those with special needs) can be sponsored with no restrictions with regard to his/their age(s)

Sponsoring Daughters

• An expatriate resident can sponsor his daughter(s) only if she/they is/are unmarried
• No restrictions with regard to her/their age(s)

Sponsoring Newborns

• For babies born in the UAE, a residence visa must be applied for within 120 days of its birth to avoid incurring fines

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is a family visa in the UAE?

A family visa, also known as a dependent or sponsor visa, allows the spouse and dependent children (under 18) of a UAE resident to live with them in the country.

What types of family visas are available in the UAE?

The types of family visas available in the UAE include the Spouse Visa, Child Visa, and Parent Visa.

What are the eligibility requirements for a family visa?

If you hold a residency visa, as an investor, employee, or partner, and meet the minimum salary requirement of at least AED 4,000 with accommodation, you are fully eligible to sponsor your wife and children for residency in the UAE.

Can I sponsor my parents for a UAE family visa?

Yes, an expatriate employee can sponsor their parents for a year's stay by paying a deposit as a guarantee for each parent and providing proof that they are the sole supporter.

Can I sponsor just one of my parents?

No, you must sponsor both parents together if they meet the dependency criteria.

Can I sponsor my stepchildren for a UAE family visa?

Yes, you can sponsor your stepchildren, but you may need additional documents such as a no-objection certificate from the biological parent and proof of custody.

What happens if my visa expires or is cancelled?

If the sponsoring family member's visa is cancelled, the dependent visas must also be cancelled. Dependents are granted a 2-month grace period from the date of expiry or cancellation to obtain a new residence permit.

Can I work in the UAE if I am on a spouse or dependent visa?

No, individuals on a spouse or dependent visa are not automatically granted the right to work. They must obtain a separate work permit from their employer to legally work in the UAE.