How to Apply for a UAE Family Visa in 2026?
Introduction
Planning to bring your family to the UAE? Whether you want to sponsor your spouse, children, or parents, the UAE Family Visa (also known as a dependent visa in UAE) is the right option. This visa allows expatriates living and working in the UAE to reunite with their loved ones and ensure they can legally stay together.
In this guide, you’ll learn what a UAE Family Visa is, eligibility requirements, sponsorship rules, documents required, validity, renewal process, costs, and step-by-step application procedure.
What is a UAE Family Visa?
A UAE Family Visa is a residency permit that allows expatriates to sponsor their immediate family members. With this visa, you can bring your:
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Spouse
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Children (generally below 18 years, with exceptions for unmarried daughters and students)
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Parents (if you meet salary & accommodation criteria)
This visa is often referred to as a Dependent Visa UAE, as dependents are legally tied to the sponsor’s residency visa.
Who Can Sponsor a UAE Family Visa?
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Expatriate employees with a valid UAE residence visa.
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Minimum salary requirement: AED 4,000 per month or AED 3,000 + accommodation (for spouse/children).
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For parents: AED 20,000 monthly or AED 19,000 with a 2-bedroom accommodation is required.
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Women in UAE can also sponsor their family if earning at least AED 10,000/month with special approval from DNRD.
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Single mothers can sponsor their children with supporting legal documents.
Benefits of a UAE Family Visa
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Legally reside with your family in UAE.
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Access to healthcare, schools, and other facilities.
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Sponsorship available for domestic workers such as drivers/nannies.
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Dependents can also apply for Emirates ID and other services.
UAE Family Visa Requirements (2026 Update)
General Requirements:
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Valid UAE residence permit of sponsor.
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Minimum salary requirement (as mentioned above).
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Proof of relationship (marriage certificate, birth certificate, etc.).
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Accommodation contract in sponsor’s name.
Mandatory Documents:
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Passport copies (valid for at least 6 months).
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Passport-sized photographs (white background).
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Medical clearance certificate from approved UAE health centers.
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Marriage certificate (attested).
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Birth certificate(s) for children.
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Employment contract or salary slip.
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Latest utility bill (proof of residence).
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Emirates ID of sponsor.
Medical Test Requirements
All dependents above 18 years must undergo a medical fitness test at government-approved centers. They will be tested for HIV, Tuberculosis, and other communicable diseases. If found unfit, the visa will be rejected.
Validity & Duration of UAE Family Visa
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Normally valid for 2 to 3 years.
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For parents, often granted 1-year validity, renewable annually.
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Linked to the sponsor’s residence visa validity.
UAE Family Visa Application Process (Step by Step)
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Collect all required documents.
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Submit application via GDRFA (General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs) or online through UAE Visa Online.
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Pay the required visa fees.
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Complete medical tests and Emirates ID application.
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Receive the stamped residence visa on the dependent’s passport.
UAE Family Visa Renewal Rules
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Renew before expiry to avoid penalties.
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Grace period: 30 days after visa expiry.
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Dependent visa is automatically canceled if the sponsor’s visa is canceled.
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Late renewal may lead to fines and legal consequences.
Cost of UAE Family Visa in 2026
The cost varies depending on the emirate and duration:
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Application fee: AED 350 – 500 (approx.).
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Medical test: AED 300 – 500.
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Emirates ID: AED 370 – 500.
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For parents: Additional deposit and higher charges may apply.
(Note: Fees are subject to change by UAE immigration authorities.)
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