How to Sponsor a Spousal Visa in UAE (2026 Guide for Expatriates)

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) continues to be one of the most desirable destinations for expatriates, offering a world-class lifestyle, high-quality healthcare, and excellent career opportunities. For many foreign residents, reuniting with family is a top priority — which makes understanding how to sponsor a spousal visa in UAE essential.

This comprehensive 2026 guide explains everything about the UAE spouse visa sponsorship process, including eligibility, required documents, salary criteria, application steps, costs, and renewal rules.

Understanding the UAE Spousal Visa

A spousal residence visa in the UAE allows a foreign resident to sponsor their legally married partner to live in the country. The visa grants residency rights to the spouse and access to healthcare, Emirates ID, and other benefits.

Depending on your residency type, you can apply for a spouse visa as:

• A salaried employee with a valid UAE residence visa.

• A self-employed investor or free-zone license holder.

• A government or private sector employee meeting the income and housing criteria.

Eligibility Criteria for UAE Spousal Visa Sponsorship

To sponsor your spouse in the UAE, you must meet specific eligibility requirements set by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) or the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP).

Salary Requirements for Sponsoring a Spouse

• The minimum monthly salary to sponsor your wife or husband in UAE is AED 4,000 or AED 3,000 plus employer-provided accommodation.

• Additional financial proof may be required for dependents, such as children or parents.

Employment and Accommodation Criteria

• The sponsor must hold a valid UAE residence visa.

• The sponsor must have a tenancy contract or Ejari under their name.

• Proof of stable employment or business ownership is mandatory.

Documents Required for UAE Spousal Residence Visa

Applicants must prepare all documentation before starting the UAE spouse visa process.

Required documents include:

• Typed sponsorship application form from an authorized center.

• Passport copies of both sponsor and spouse.

• Passport-sized photographs of the spouse (white background).

• Verified marriage certificate, attested and translated into Arabic.

• Medical fitness certificate from a government-approved center.

• Employment contract or salary certificate from employer.

• Tenancy contract (Ejari) or property ownership proof.

• Latest utility bill as address verification.

Step-by-Step Process to Sponsor a Spouse in UAE

Step 1: Prepare Required Documents

Gather all the above documents and ensure attestation from relevant authorities in both your home country and the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Step 2: Apply for Entry Permit

If your spouse is outside the UAE, apply for an entry permit through GDRFA or ICP portals. Once approved, your spouse can enter the country for residence visa stamping.

Step 3: Medical Test and Emirates ID Biometrics

All applicants over 18 must undergo a medical screening at approved government centers. The screening checks for communicable diseases like HIV and tuberculosis (TB).
After passing the medical, complete Emirates ID biometrics at an approved center.

Step 4: Submit for Residence Visa Stamping

Submit the medical results, Emirates ID receipt, and passport to the immigration office for residence visa stamping. Once approved, the spouse officially becomes a UAE resident.

UAE Spousal Visa Duration, Validity, and Renewal

A spousal residence visa in the UAE is typically valid for two years, renewable under the same conditions. The renewal must be done before the visa expiry date, and medical tests are required again.

If the sponsor’s residence visa is canceled or expired, the dependent’s visa will also be automatically canceled.

Cost Breakdown for UAE Spouse Visa (Dubai & Abu Dhabi)

While costs may vary by emirate and visa type, below is an approximate 2026 breakdown:

Changing Status from Tourist Visa to Spousal Residence Visa

If your spouse is already in the UAE on a tourist visa, you can convert it into a residence visa without exiting the country.
You’ll need to pay a status change fee and complete the medical and Emirates ID steps before visa stamping.

Common Mistakes When Applying for UAE Spouse Visa

• Submitting unattested marriage certificates or missing Arabic translations.

• Applying without meeting the salary threshold.

• Providing incorrect tenancy documents or expired Ejari.

• Failing to renew on time, leading to fines or cancellation.

Benefits of a Spouse Visa in UAE for Expatriates

• Legal residency and right to live together as a family.

• Access to healthcare, banking, and Emirates ID.

• Eligibility to apply for dependent children’s visas.

• Easier transition to long-term residency or Golden Visa in the future.

Sponsoring a Spouse Under Investor or Free-Zone Visa

Expatriates holding an investor visa or free-zone visa can also sponsor their spouses by meeting the financial and accommodation requirements. However, salary verification differs — proof of trade license and business ownership replaces the employment certificate.

Risks of Applying Without Professional Assistance

Applying without proper documentation or expert help can result in:

• Visa rejection or delays.

• Extra costs for re-application.

• Legal issues for incorrect document attestation.

Why Choose Our Expert Visa Services

We simplify the UAE spouse visa sponsorship process by handling all documentation, attestation, application submission, and renewals. Our experts ensure every step meets UAE government requirements, saving you time and avoiding costly errors.

Apply for your UAE Spousal Visa today — let professionals make the process smooth, compliant, and stress-free.

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Final Thoughts

Sponsoring your spouse in the UAE allows you to enjoy life together in one of the world’s most dynamic countries. By following this guide and using professional visa assistance, you can ensure a hassle-free and compliant process in 2026 and beyond.