The UAE is not just a place to work; it is a place to call home. For the millions of expatriates who have built their careers in the country, being able to live with their families is a top priority. The **UAE Family Visa** is the official permit that allows residents to sponsor their immediate family members to live with them in the UAE. This is a cornerstone of the UAE`s policy to create a stable and family-friendly environment for its expatriate population. [1]

As a resident with a valid UAE residence visa, you have the privilege of sponsoring your spouse, children, and in some cases, your parents. The process involves meeting certain criteria, primarily related to your salary and accommodation, and navigating a series of administrative steps with the immigration authorities.

This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the UAE Family Visa process for 2025. We cover who you can sponsor, the key requirements, and the step-by-step application process. And to make the journey of reuniting with your family as smooth as possible, T4me offers a dedicated and compassionate family visa service.

Who Can You Sponsor on a Family Visa?

As a valid UAE resident (the sponsor), you can sponsor the following family members (the sponsored):

• Spouse: You can sponsor your husband or wife.
• Children:
  •  You can sponsor your sons up to the age of 25
  • You can sponsor your unmarried daughters of any age.

• Parents: You can sponsor your parents, provided you meet a higher minimum salary requirement and can prove that you are their sole provider.

Key Requirements for Sponsoring Your Family

For the Sponsor:

• Valid Residence Visa: You must have a valid UAE residence visa (usually an employment or investor visa).
• Minimum Salary: You must meet the minimum salary requirement set by the immigration authorities. This is typically:
  •     AED 4,000 per month (or AED 3,000 + accommodation) to sponsor your spouse and children.
  •     AED 20,000 per month to sponsor your parents.
• Accommodation: You must have adequate accommodation for your family, proven by a registered tenancy contract (Ejari) in your name.

Documents Required:

• Sponsor`s Documents:
  •        Passport and visa copy
  •        Emirates ID copy
  •        Salary certificate or labor contract
  •        Tenancy contract (Ejari)
• Sponsored Family Member`s Documents:
  •        Passport copy and passport-sized photos
  •        Birth certificates (for children), attested
  •        Marriage certificate (for spouse), attested

Note: Marriage and birth certificates issued outside the UAE must be attested by the UAE Embassy in the country of issue and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) in the UAE.

The Family Visa Process: Step-by-Step

1. Entry Permit Application: The sponsor applies for an entry permit for the family member. This allows them to enter the UAE for the purpose of residency.
2. Family Member Enters UAE: The family member enters the UAE using the entry permit.
3. Medical Fitness Test: The family member (if over 18) undergoes a medical fitness test at a government-approved health center.
4. Emirates ID Application: The family member applies for their Emirates ID and provides their biometric data.
5. Health Insurance: The sponsor must arrange for valid health insurance for the family member.
6. Visa Stamping: The sponsor submits all documents to the immigration authority to have the residence visa stamped in the family member`s passport.

How T4me (t4me.com) Can Help You Reunite with Your Family

We understand that bringing your family to the UAE is a deeply personal and important process. T4me’s family visa service is designed to handle all the administrative complexities with care and efficiency, so you can focus on your family.

Our services include:

• Personalized Consultation: We provide clear advice on your eligibility and the specific requirements for your case.
• Document Attestation: We can manage the attestation of your marriage and birth certificates.
• End-to-End Visa Processing: We handle the entire process, from the entry permit to the final visa stamping.
• Peace of Mind: We provide regular updates and ensure the process is as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can a woman sponsor her husband and children?

Yes, a woman can sponsor her family, provided she meets the minimum salary requirement and is in a professional role (e.g., teacher, doctor, engineer).

2. How long is the family visa valid for?

The family visa is typically valid for the same duration as the sponsor`s visa (e.g., two years).

3. What if my salary is below the minimum requirement?

In some exceptional or humanitarian cases, the immigration authorities may approve a family visa even if the salary is slightly below the minimum. This is at the discretion of the authorities.

4. Do my children need to do a medical test?

Children under the age of 18 are generally not required to undergo the medical fitness test.

5. Can I sponsor my step-children?

Yes, you can sponsor your step-children, but it requires a no-objection certificate (NOC) from the biological parent.

Conclusion: Building a Life Together in the UAE

The UAE Family Visa is your key to building a life with your loved ones in this country of opportunity. While the process requires careful preparation of documents and adherence to specific requirements, it is a straightforward path to family reunification.

By understanding the process and getting expert assistance, you can ensure a smooth and successful outcome, allowing you to enjoy the experience of living and growing together in the UAE.

Contact T4me (t4me.com) today for a compassionate and professional consultation on your family visa needs. Let us help you bring your family home.

References

[1] U.AE. “Sponsoring your family.” u.ae, 2023, https://u.ae/en/information-and-services/visa-and-emirates-id/residence-visas/sponsoring-your-family.