The United Arab Emirates has recently updated its rules regarding visit visas and family sponsorship. This reform directly affects residents wishing to bring their loved ones, whether for a short stay or long-term residence.
From now on, anyone wishing to sponsor a family member or friend must demonstrate a minimum monthly income to guarantee financial stability and the ability to support the visitor during their stay.
The New Minimum Salary Threshold
- To sponsor a spouse or children, the minimum required salary is set at 4,000 AED per month, or 3,000 AED if housing is provided by the employer.
- For parents, the conditions are stricter: you generally need to earn at least 20,000 AED per month, or have a slightly lower income accompanied by suitable accommodation.
- Female residents wishing to sponsor their family often need to demonstrate a higher income, which can range from 8,000 to 10,000 AED, depending on their situation and emirate of residence.
These requirements aim to ensure that sponsors can cover expenses related to the stay, including housing, health, and insurance for their family members.
Steps to Follow
The process for sponsoring a family member or friend takes place in several stages:
1. Eligibility Verification
The sponsor must be a legal resident of the Emirates, have a valid work visa, and meet the required salary threshold. Proof of accommodation (Ejari contract or equivalent) is also mandatory.
2. Document Preparation
You must gather copies of passports, employment contract or salary certificate, marriage or birth certificate (as applicable), proof of accommodation, as well as health insurance for the sponsored individuals.
For adults over 18, a medical examination is required.
3. Visa Application
The first step is to apply for an entry permit for the family member or friend concerned. Once they arrive in the country, the residence application is submitted to the relevant authorities.
4. Fees and Validity
Fees vary depending on the visa type and duration. Generally, a family visa is valid for 1 to 2 years and can be renewed. It’s important to note that the dependent’s visa is linked to the sponsor’s—if it expires or is cancelled, the dependent’s will be as well.
Simplifying the Process with The Dubai Life
For many, these procedures can seem lengthy and complex. That’s why The Dubai Life, an agency specializing in administrative support and settlement in the Emirates, offers a complete service to facilitate all stages.
The Dubai Life team helps newcomers to:
- Verify their eligibility based on the desired visa type
- Prepare and authenticate necessary documents
- Manage translation, legalization, and submission of forms
- Track the application until the visa and Emirates ID are issued
Thanks to their expertise, you can save time, avoid administrative errors, and experience a smooth and peaceful settlement in the United Arab Emirates.
In Summary
The new visa rules in the Emirates emphasize the importance of financial stability before welcoming loved ones. By understanding the required amounts and following the proper procedure or better yet, being accompanied by The Dubai Life it becomes much simpler to reunite your family or invite friends to discover life in the Emirates.
