Bringing Your Family to the UAE: Visa Costs and Requirements

Understanding the specifics of obtaining a family residence visa in the UAE, including its cost and requirements, is essential when bringing your family to the country. The UAE provides a range of visa choices for family members such as spouses, children, and parents; and the associated costs and requirements are subject to variation based on the visa type and the sponsor’s relationship to the applicant. It is important to grasp the details of acquiring a family residence visa in the UAE to ensure a smooth process.

In this article, we will explore a detailed guide on the family visa procedures; including both general and specific costs, requirements, eligibility, and additional pertinent information. Our goal is to address your most immediate concerns, guaranteeing a seamless and successful move for your family to the UAE.

Navigating Family Visas in the UAE

Family visas in the UAE are tailored to allow residents to bring their immediate family members to reside with them in the country; including spouses, children, and parents. Acquiring a family visa involves fulfilling particular criteria, including presenting proof of the relationship, financial stability, and appropriate accommodations.

Furthermore, grasping the family visa in the UAE, its price and prerequisites is essential for a successful application. The UAE provides diverse visa alternatives for family members, each with its own conditions and charges. Navigating the family visa process in the UAE demands thoughtful deliberation of these factors; in order to guarantee a seamless and compliant transition for the entire family.

Understanding Family Visa Costs UAE

Understanding the expenses related to a family residence visa in the UAE and their overall cost is crucial; as it involves considering the diverse fees linked to bringing family members into the country.

These costs may vary based on the visa type, the length of the stay, and the relationship between the applicant and the sponsor. Additionally, it is important for applicants to be aware of potential supplementary costs like medical insurance and Emirates ID registration.

By gaining a thorough understanding of these expenses, individuals can effectively plan and make arrangements for the process of bringing their family to the UAE.

Price Breakdown: 2 Year Family Visa in Dubai

The pricing breakdown for a 2-year family visa price in Dubai can vary depending on several factors. The general cost is influenced by the applicant’s location, the validity period of the residence visa (2 or 3 years), the desired insurance coverage for family members, and whether a normal or express service is chosen.

Additionally, this breakdown typically includes around 3500 AED for fees, including medical tests, Emirates ID, and stamping; with 200-250 AED for typing charges, and a renewal cost of approximately 3000 AED.

In 2024, the estimated fees for a two-year visa range from 3000 AED to 7000 AED. In addition, the approximate cost varies from 3550 AED without insurance to 5322 AED with insurance for applicants in Dubai; and from 2450 AED without insurance to 4022 AED with insurance for applicants outside of Dubai.

Cost of Sponsoring Parents’ Residence in Dubai

The cost of sponsoring a residence visa for parents in Dubai can vary based on several factors. The costs for sponsoring parents for a one-year stay encompass a deposit for each parent; with the total expense for issuing or renewing a residence visa for parents being approximately 359.9 AED.

Furthermore, there are additional associated expenses such as application fees at typing centers and refundable deposit fees. It is crucial to acknowledge that the overall cost may also be impacted by variables including the applicant’s location; the validity period of the residence visa (1, 2, or 3 years); and the preferred insurance coverage for family members.

Additionally, fulfilling specific requisites; such as demonstrating sole support for the parents and procuring a medical insurance policy for them; is vital for the sponsorship process. When contemplating sponsoring a residence visa for parents in Dubai, it is advisable to take into account these factors and the related costs.

Sharjah Family Visa Fees (Estimated)

The Sharjah family visa cost can vary depending on the type and duration of the visa. The specific fees can differ based on the visa category and the length of stay, and may include additional charges for services or procedures. It is important to consider factors such as the applicant’s location, the validity period of the visa; and any extra costs for services or processes. Understanding these elements is essential when planning to apply for family visas in Sharjah.

With that in mind, the Sharjah family visa cost breakdown for different types of Sharjah visas can be estimated as follows:

1. UAE Family visa + Covid insurance: Approximately 887.54 AED
2. 48 hours Transit visa + Covid insurance: Approximately 132.14 AED
3. 96 hours UAE Transit visa + Covid insurance: Approximately 193.83 AED
4. 14 days UAE Tourist visa: Approximately 83 AED
5. 14 days UAE Tourist visa + Covid insurance: Approximately 336.99AED
6. 30 days UAE Tourist visa: Approximately 343.64AED

Family Visa Requirements for UAE

In order to sponsor family members in the UAE, certain family visa requirements must be met.

• Firstly, both employers and employees holding valid UAE residence visas are eligible to sponsor residence visas for their families. Employees can sponsor their families, regardless of their job titles; only if they earn a minimum salary of 4,000 AED or 3,000 AED plus accommodation. Expatriate residents are also eligible to sponsor their families for residency in the UAE, as long as they hold a valid residence permit or visa.

• Eligibility criteria include being a UAE citizen or a valid residence visa holder, as well meeting minimum income requirements as previously mentioned. The sponsorship process can be initiated either online or offline. It is essential to prepare the necessary documents and consider accommodation requirements in advance to ensure a smooth and seamless relocation for your family to the UAE.

• Additionally, the specific documents required for sponsoring family members depend on the individuals being sponsored. The approximate cost for issuing or renewing a residence visa for a wife and children for 3 years is around 439.9 AED. It is important to note that this cost is subject to change, and additional charges may apply.

• The required documents to sponsor family members for a residence visa in the UAE include:

1. Submission application, online or through an authorized typing office
2. Employer-issued salary certificate indicating the employee’s monthly earnings
3. Valid tenancy contract registered with the authorities
4. Photographic evidence of the spouse and children
5. Copies of the passports belonging to the spouse and children
6. Medical clearance certificate for any children above the age of 18
7. Officially attested marriage certificate
8. Recent utility bill in the sponsor’s name
9. Copy of the sponsor’s employment contract or company agreement

Processing Time for UAE Spouse Visa

The UAE spouse visa processing time can vary depending on several factors. The family visa procedure is expected to be completed within 4 working days in the UAE, if all required documents and qualifications are in order; to around two weeks, encompassing paperwork application and medical procedures.

It is crucial to consider that the processing time might be affected by factors such as the conclusiveness of the submitted documents; compliance with immigration regulations; and the specific protocols of the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) established in Dubai.

Therefore, individuals intending to sponsor a spouse visa in the UAE should ensure they fulfill the eligibility criteria; and that they have all essential documentation ready to facilitate a smooth and swift UAE spouse visa processing time.

Additional UAE Family Visa Considerations

When considering the family visa requirements in the UAE; it is crucial to take into account the following additional factors that offer valuable perspectives on the different aspects.

• First, it is important to assess the eligibility for sponsorship. A non-citizen spouse, parent, or child of a UAE national holding a foreign passport can acquire a UAE residence visa; this for a duration of 5 years without being required to work in the UAE. In this scenario, the sponsor would be the UAE national.

• Additionally, a foreign widow or divorced woman who is a mother of a UAE citizen can secure a residence visa without the need to work as well. In this instance, the sponsor would be the eldest child.

• Then, you must take into account the visa related expenses. The cost of a family visa in Dubai may fluctuate based on factors like the type of visa, its duration, and any supplementary services or processing fees. The approximate cost for issuing or renewing a residence visa for a spouse and children for 3 years is around 439.9 AED.

• Male expatriates must have a monthly salary of at least 4,000 AED, or 3,000 AED plus accommodation, to sponsor family members in the UAE. Female expatriates must have a minimum monthly salary of 10,000 AED or 8,000 AED along with accommodation. Wives can also sponsor their husbands but will face additional requirements from the relevant authorities.

• All family members aged 18 and above who are applying must undergo a medical fitness examination at an approved health center. This examination includes tests for HIV and Tuberculosis.

• It is important to note that applying for a Dubai family visa for a family member outside the UAE could lead to savings of around 1290 AED; in comparison to applying while they are already in the UAE.

Family Visit Visa Options

The family visit visa options in the UAE allow residents to reunite with their relatives for short-term visits. This visa category is specifically designed to facilitate visits by immediate family members, such as parents, spouses, siblings, and children.

The UAE offers a range of visit visa options typically spanning from 30 to 90 days; depending on specific requirements and the relationship between the sponsor and the visitor. These visas can be extended if needed, allowing families to enjoy quality time together in the dynamic environment of the UAE.

Adhering to the guidelines and regulations set by the UAE authorities when applying for; and using; family visit visas is crucial to ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit for all parties involved.

Understanding Family Residence Visas in the UAE

In the UAE, expatriates seeking to bring their family members to live with them in the country require family residence visas. Here are some details about the process and prerequisites for acquiring family residence visas in the UAE:

• The expatriate or their employer can sponsor family visas for the UAE. Which means you must file the UAE Family Visa application within 60 days of obtaining your own UAE Residence Visa; and you can submit it at the GDRFA offices of the relevant Emirate.

• Additionally, you must consider the shared cancellation and Grace Period related to the family visa. This indicates that the family’s residence permits are linked to the sponsoring family member’s residence permit; thus, the dependents’ visas need to be cancelled if the sponsoring family member’s visa is cancelled. Dependents have a 6-month grace period from the visa’s expiry or cancellation date to secure a new residence permit; neglecting to renew or cancel dependents’ visas may lead to fines.

Costs Associated with Family Residence Visas

The family residence visa in the UAE and the cost related to it may fluctuate depending on various factors. Here’s an overview of the expenses involved:

• In the UAE, male sponsors must have a minimum salary of 4,000 AED, or 3,000 AED along with accommodations. On the other hand, female UAE residents wishing to sponsor their families in the UAE need to have a minimum salary of 8,000 AED along with accommodations, or 10,000 AED.

• In addition, you need to pay 100 AED to renew an Emirates ID for one year, and the fee for visa stamping, including delivery charges, amounts to 500 AED.

• Finally, the family visa application fee is 310 AED, and you need to pay a refundable deposit of 1,000 AED.

It is crucial to emphasize that the family residency visa in the UAE and the cost linked to it may comprise different elements; including visa application fees, refundable deposits, medical assessments, and health insurance.

Other potential costs may include:

• The entry permits vary in cost, ranging from 400 AED to 1200 AED; while the price of the visa status change is 690 AED.

• Moreover, medical tests can amount to approximately 300 to 450 AED, and health insurance typically starts at 450 AED per month. It is also important to consider that using a typing center or agent for the visa application may result in extra service charges.

• Furthermore, the typical processing period for a Dubai family visa is 15 to 17 days; although in exceptional circumstances it may extend to 60 days. Not to mention, family visas in the UAE are available for 1, 2, or 3 years and can be renewed before they expire.

Requirements for Sponsoring Family Members

Expatriate residents, including both employers and employees, have the opportunity to sponsor their families to live in the UAE; provided they possess a valid residence permit or visa. They must also fulfill specific requirements that delineate the essential conditions and procedures for sponsoring family members in the UAE.

• Male expatriates in the UAE must have a minimum salary of 4,000 AED, or 3,000 AED along with accommodations to sponsor their family members. Differently, female UAE residents need to have a minimum salary of 10,000 AED, or 8,000 AED along with accommodations.

• Lastly, for babies born in the UAE, they must have a residence visa applied for within 120 days of their birth to avoid penalties. Expatriate residents can also sponsor their stepchildren, with conditions established by the GDRFA. The residence visas for stepchildren have a duration of one year and are eligible for annual renewal.

• To sponsor a wife and children, the necessary documents include an online application or submission through a registered typing office. Furthermore, sponsors must ensure that both male and female family members over the age of 18 pass medical fitness tests at approved health centers in the UAE.

Specific Visa Costs and Considerations

When evaluating the family residence visa in UAE and the specific cost and considerations related to visas; it is important to take into consideration various factors that contribute to the overall expenses.

• These factors may encompass application fees, processing fees, medical examination costs, insurance expenses; and any additional charges for document processing or verification.

• Additionally, having a comprehensive understanding of visa costs and considerations allows applicants to plan effectively, ensuring compliance with financial obligations and a seamless application process.

• Moreover, staying informed about potential cost fluctuations and current visa regulations can help making well-informed decisions when pursuing their visa.

2-Year Family Visa Prices in Dubai

The 2-year family visa price in Dubai can vary from around 3000 AED to 7000 AED in 2024. Here are certain cost elements and their associated conditions:

• The estimated expenses for a 2-year visa, covering medical tests, Emirates ID, and stamping, total approximately 3500 AED. Typing fees may range from 200 to 250 AED, and the renewal cost is roughly 3000 AED. In the event of cancellation, certain visa fees are non-reimbursable.

• The cost of a 2-year family visa in Dubai, which includes an entry permit, can vary from 400 AED to 1200 AED.The visa status change costs approximately 690 AED, and you may expect to pay around 300 AED to 450 AED for medical tests. The Emirates ID costs roughly 350 AED for a 2-year duration and you can easily renew it.

• Additionally, an applicant in Dubai can pay roughly 3550 AED for a 2-year family visa without insurance; and 2450 AED for an applicant outside of Dubai. With insurance, an applicant in Dubai can expect to pay approximately 5322 AED, while an applicant outside of Dubai must pay approximately 4022 AED.

• This information offers a summary of the cost range and specific elements linked to acquiring a 2-year family visa in Dubai in 2024.

Cost of Sponsoring Parents’ Residence in Dubai

Here’s an analysis of the expenses associated with sponsoring parents’ residence in Dubai.

• The cost of sponsoring parents for a two-year residence visa in Dubai can vary from about 2450 AED to 3550 AED for applicants outside of Dubai; and from 3550 AED to 5322 AED for applicants in Dubai. These costs depend on factors like the applicant’s location, the duration of the residence visa, and the inclusion of insurance.

• In addition, sponsoring parents for a residence visa in Dubai may entail additional fees; such as application fees at typing centers, deposit fees, and health insurance expenses. For instance, a breakdown of costs for a one-year visa include a 440 AED application fee at a typing center; as well as a refundable deposit fee of 5000 AED. Health insurance for parents is also a mandatory requirement, with costs varying based on coverage and provider.

• Moreover, the employed expatriate resident must earn a minimum salary specified by the GDRFA in order to sponsor parents’ visas. In Dubai, sponsors must have a minimum salary of 20,000 AED to sponsor parents’ visas.

Processing Times for UAE Spouse Visas

Typically, the processing period for a Dubai family visa is 15 to 17 days, although in rare instances, it may extend to 60 days.

In the UAE, the spouse visa processing may differ according to different factors; but it can be estimated to approximately 3-4 working days. It is advisable to submit the visa application at least 14 days before the intended travel date to prevent any potential delays.

Additionally, the processing time for the priority settlement visa for spouses in the UAE is 6 weeks; with an extra fee for the priority settlement visa service. However, the family visa procedure in the UAE should not exceed 4 working days anyway; if you satisfy all necessary documents and salary criteria.

Alternative Visa Options

There are several visa options available for visiting relatives in the UAE:

• One such option is the UAE family visit visa; which allows relatives to apply for a short-term entry permit valid for 90 days, renewable for similar periods. You can complete the application for this visa online through the GDRFA Dubai website, or at a physical center.

• Additionally, individuals from specific countries; including the UK, the USA, Canada, and others; may qualify for a complimentary 30-day visit visa upon arrival in the UAE.

• Moreover, authorized travel agents and hotels in the UAE can arrange tourist visas for visitors; as long as you purchase the ticket through them and maintain hotel reservations. It is crucial to verify the legitimacy of travel agents; this means applicants should refrain from making payments or sending official documents until you confirm the tour operator’s authenticity.

• Furthermore, the UAE offers new visa types, including options for long-stay tourists, employment seekers, skilled professionals, outstanding students, and high-net-worth individuals; offering flexibility for various visitor categories. These alternative visa options address different needs and situations, providing visitors with the opportunity to explore the UAE for various purposes.

Family Visit Visas in the UAE

Family visit visas in the UAE enable relatives to apply for 90-days entry permits, which can be renewed for similar periods.

Applicants can complete the application process for these visas online through the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) Dubai website; or through offline channels like authorized physical centers.

Typically, a resident relative or a UAE-based entity sponsors the visa, and the sponsor must meet specific financial criteria; including a minimum salary threshold; to be eligible to sponsor family visit visas in the UAE.

Moreover, individuals from certain countries may qualify for a complimentary 30-day visit visa upon arrival in the UAE; provided their countries have a visa-on-arrival arrangement with the UAE.

Overall, family visit visas in the UAE offer an opportunity for relatives to visit and spend time with their family members who are residents or citizens of the UAE.

Regional Variations

The prerequisites and conditions for family visas in the UAE may differ depending on the Emirate; as well as the individual circumstances of the sponsor and the sponsored family members.

• In general, both employers and employees holding valid UAE residence visas have the ability to sponsor residence visas for their families. Male and female employees can sponsor their families regardless of their job titles or residential region; as long as they meet a specified minimum salary requirement.

• Additionally, since 2019, the regulations of educational background or profession as a requirement for sponsorship have been replaced across the UAE; with emphasis placed on the sponsor’s financial capability and valid visa status instead.

• In short, the family visa requirements and regulations are consistent throughout the UAE; with the only regional variations being, at some extent, the family residence visa UAE cost.

Sharjah Family Visa Costs

The Sharjah family visa cost in the UAE can fluctuate depending on the type and duration of the visa.

• Residents of the UAE in Sharjah can sponsor family or friends for a visit visa through Sharjah Airport Travel Agency; and the visa application requires a valid passport copy with a validity of over 6 months. The average cost of a family visa in Sharjah is similar to that of a family visa in Dubai.

• Additionally, visitors seeking tourist visas can submit applications through tourist travel agencies or hotels as well. The visit visa allows them to remain in the country for 30 or 90 days, with the option for renewal. Consequently, the cost of the visit visa may differ based on the duration, such as 96 hours, 14 days, 30 days, and 60 days. For instance, the cost of a 14-day family visa for the UAE, including Covid insurance, is approximately 887.58 AED.

• It is crucial to be aware that extra fees may be applicable for specific visa procedures; and the overall cost may encompass charges for said additional services.

FAQ’s

 

Family residence visa UAE cost:

The family residence visa in the UAE and its cost can vary depending on different factors; such as the visa duration, insurance requirements for family members, and the service type selected.

For instance, the estimated cost of a 2-year family visa in Dubai is around 3,550 AED without insurance; and approximately 5322 AED with insurance. For a 3-year visa, the cost without insurance is about 3,750 AED, and with insurance, it is approximately 5,522 AED. Moreover, the issuance or renewal fee for a 3-year residence visa for a wife and children is approximately 439.9 AED; which is subject to change.

Additional charges, including document attestation fees and Emirates ID renewal costs, may also be applicable. It is essential for individuals to confirm the current costs and requirements with the relevant authorities; in order to obtain the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding the family residence visa UAE’s cost.

2 years family visa price in Dubai:

The estimated 2 years family visa price in Dubai is about 3,550 AED without insurance and roughly 5,322 AED with insurance. Nevertheless, the cost can differ depending on factors such as the applicant’s location (within or outside Dubai) and the specific services needed. It is important to note that the visa cost is subject to change; and we encourage you to confirm the current fees with the relevant authorities for the most precise and up-to-date information.

Cost of residence visa for parents in Dubai:

For the family residence visa for parents in Dubai, UAE, the cost can range from 300 AED to 3,000 AED or more. This depends on several factors such as the applicant’s location, the validity duration of the residence visa (2 or 3 years), the type of insurance selected, and determine whether they need normal service or express service.

Additionally, sponsors in Dubai must have a minimum salary of 20,000 AED to sponsor parents’ visas; and is mandatory an annual renewal of a medical insurance policy for parents with the minimum coverage specified for each. It is essential to take these factors into account and confirm the current costs and requirements with the relevant authorities.

UAE spouse visa processing time:

The processing time for a spouse visa in the UAE may differ depending on individual situations and the completion of the application. Typically, the processing time for a spouse visa in the UAE does not exceed 4 working days; if all necessary documents and qualifications are in order. It is crucial to prepare and submit the required documents in accordance with immigration regulations to ensure a seamless and prompt visa processing.

Family visa UAE requirements

To sponsor family members in the UAE, specific conditions and requirements must be met. As of 2019, expats with valid UAE residence visas can sponsor visas for their families; with a minimum salary requirement of 4,000 AED or 3,000 AED plus accommodation. The cost of a family visa in Dubai can vary from 300 to 3,000 AED or more; and it is important to verify the current fees and requirements with the relevant authorities. When bringing family or parents to the UAE, it is crucial to prepare the required documents; as well as consider specific accommodation requirements in advance.

Expats with valid residence permits can sponsor visas for family members, subject to certain conditions and with potential additional charges.

Sponsors in Dubai must have a minimum salary of AED 20,000 to sponsor parents’ visas, and they must renew a medical insurance policy meeting specific coverage criteria annually.

In summary, to sponsor family members in the UAE; individuals must be either UAE citizens or valid residence visa holders and meet minimum income requirements. The required documents for sponsoring include holding a valid residence visa, proof of the salary criteria; as well as passing a fitness test at a government-approved health center.

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