How to Sponsor Your Family in the UAE: Latest Requirements (2024 Guide)

Sponsoring your family in the UAE allows expatriates to bring their loved ones to live with them in the country. However, the process involves strict eligibility criteria, documentation, and compliance with UAE immigration laws. This step-by-step guide covers the latest 2025 requirements, salary conditions, visa fees, and procedures for sponsoring your spouse, children, or parents in the UAE.

1. Who Can Sponsor Family in the UAE?

To sponsor your family, you must meet the following minimum requirements:

A. Eligibility for Expats

✅ Valid UAE Residence Visa (must not be on a visit/tourist visa).
✅ Minimum Salary Requirement:

Dubai & Northern Emirates: AED 4,000 (or AED 3,000 + accommodation).
Abu Dhabi: AED 5,000 (or AED 4,000 + accommodation).
✅ Approved Profession (some emirates require specific job titles).
✅ Adequate Housing (must meet Tawtheeq/Ejari standards).

B. Who Can Be Sponsored?

Spouse (husband/wife)
Children (sons below 25, unmarried daughters of any age, disabled children of any age).
Parents (if sponsor earns AED 20,000+ per month).

2. Required Documents for Family Sponsorship

For Spouse Sponsorship

✔ Passport copies (sponsor & spouse).
✔ Sponsor’s Emirates ID & visa copy.
✔ Marriage certificate (attested from home country & UAE MOFA).
✔ Salary certificate (latest 3 months).
✔ Tenancy contract (Ejari/Tawtheeq).
✔ Medical fitness test (for spouse).

For Children Sponsorship

✔ Birth certificate (attested).
✔ Passport copies (sponsor & children).
✔ Emirates ID copies.
✔ School enrollment proof (if applicable).

For Parents Sponsorship

✔ Passport copies (sponsor & parents).
✔ Proof of monthly salary (AED 20,000+).
✔ Medical insurance for parents.

3. Step-by-Step Sponsorship Process

Step 1: Check Eligibility

Ensure you meet salary & profession requirements.
Verify if your housing meets Tawtheeq/Ejari standards.

Step 2: Submit Application

Online: Through ICA Smart Services or GDRFA Dubai.
In-Person: At Amer Centers (Dubai) or Tasheel Centers (other emirates).

Step 3: Medical Test & Emirates ID

Sponsored family members must undergo a medical test at approved health centers.
Apply for Emirates ID (mandatory for residency).

Step 4: Visa Stamping & Residency

Once approved, the family visa is stamped on the passport.
Apply for family residency within 60 days of entry.

4. Latest Updates (2025 Changes)

🔹 Remote Work Visa Holders can now sponsor families.
🔹 Freelancers in Dubai can sponsor if they earn AED 15,000+ monthly.
🔹 Medical Insurance is mandatory for all dependents (varies by emirate).
🔹 Golden Visa Holders have relaxed salary requirements.

5. Cost of Family Sponsorship in UAE

Visa Application Fee: AED 350 – 500
Emirates ID: AED 375
Medical Test: AED 300 – 500
Residency Stamp: AED 450
Insurance: AED 380 – 2,000/year

Total Estimated Cost: AED 3,000 – 5,000 per person.

6. Common Rejection Reasons & Solutions

❌ Low Salary → Increase income or provide additional proof (bank statements).
❌ Incomplete Documents → Double-check attestation & translations.
❌ Housing Issues → Ensure Ejari is registered.
❌ Medical Rejection → Some conditions (e.g., HIV, tuberculosis) may lead to visa denial.

7. FAQs on UAE Family Sponsorship

Q: Can a wife sponsor her husband in the UAE?
A: Yes, if she meets the salary requirement and works in an approved profession.

Q: Can I sponsor my parents if my salary is below AED 20,000?
A: No, except for Golden Visa holders.

Q: How long does the process take?
A: 2–4 weeks, depending on emirate and document processing.

Q: Can I sponsor my adult son (above 25)?
A: No, unless he has a disability.

Final Tips for Successful Sponsorship

✔ Start early – Some attestations take weeks.
✔ Use a typing center – They help avoid errors in applications.
✔ Check for updates – Rules change frequently.

Need Help?

For professional assistance with family visa sponsorship, visit protypings.com