Who Can Sponsor Their Family in the UAE ?
Under the UAE Family Residence Visa, any expatriate resident holding a valid UAE residence permit can sponsor their immediate family members, including spouse, children, and, in specific cases, parents. There are no longer any profession-based restrictions, as eligibility is now determined primarily by meeting the minimum income and housing requirements.
Minimum Salary Requirement for UAE Family Sponsorship
To sponsor a spouse and children, the sponsor must earn at least:
- AED 4,000 per month, or
- AED 3,000 per month plus company-provided accommodation
For female residents, certain Emirates such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi may set higher thresholds , typically AED 10,000 or AED 8,000 plus accommodation, depending on the visa type and employment category.
Sponsoring parents requires a substantially higher income, which varies by Emirate.
Sponsoring parents or parents-in-law generally requires a higher income and proof of suitable housing. In addition, a refundable security deposit of approximately AED 5,000 per parent (or parent-in-law) may be required by the immigration authorities, depending on the Emirate.
Key Documents and Requirements
Typical documentation for a UAE Family Residence Visa includes:
- Valid passport copies and residence visas of all family members
- Original Emirates ID of the sponsor
- Attested marriage certificate (for spouse sponsorship)
- Attested birth certificates (for children)
- Tenancy contract with Ejari and recent utility bills
- Salary certificate (for free zone employees) or MOHRE-approved work contract (for mainland employees)
- Recent six-month bank statement (if required)
- Health insurance as per Emirate regulations
- Passport-size photos with a white background
Important Notes and Special Cases for the UAE Family Residence Visa
Sponsoring Parents
This is allowed if you meet higher income and larger accommodation standards. You must sponsor both parents together unless one is deceased. A refundable security deposit may be required.
Sponsoring Adult Children
Sons can be sponsored up to 25 years old. Daughters can be sponsored until marriage, regardless of age.
Deadline After Entry
After your family enters the UAE on an entry permit, you have 60 days to complete the residence visa stamping.
Free Zone vs Mainland Sponsorship
Both Free Zone and Mainland residents can sponsor their families if they meet the income and accommodation requirements.
The UAE Family Residence Visa is generally valid for one or two years, aligned with the sponsor’s visa duration.
Where to Apply for a Family Residence Visa in Dubai
You can apply for the UAE Family Residence Visa through Saxon Capital, a full-service business setup and PRO services firm based in Dubai. With over 17 years of experience, Saxon Capital handles everything from visa processing to document clearance and approvals.
FAQ
Can expatriates sponsor their family in the UAE?
Yes, expatriates with a valid UAE residence visa can sponsor their immediate family members if they meet the income and housing requirements.
What is the minimum salary to sponsor a family in Dubai?
The minimum salary to sponsor a family in Dubai is typically AED 4,000 per month or AED 3,000 plus company-provided accommodation, depending on the emirate.
Can parents be sponsored under the UAE family visa?
Yes, parents can be sponsored under the UAE family visa, but higher income, suitable housing, and a refundable security deposit are usually required.
Can free zone employees sponsor their family in the UAE?
Yes, free zone employees can sponsor their family members as long as they meet the salary and accommodation criteria set by immigration authorities.
How long does it take to process a UAE family residence visa?
UAE family residence visa processing usually takes between 1 to 3 weeks, depending on document readiness and emirate-specific approvals.