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Bringing your family to live with you in Dubai is a rewarding step toward building a stable and fulfilling life in one of the world’s most vibrant cities. At MTG Global Group, we provide reliable visa assistance services in Dubai to guide residents and business owners through the process of reuniting with their loved ones. We understand the importance of family and the challenges of navigating the UAE sponsorship system, from eligibility requirements and salary thresholds to the preparation of essential documents. In this guide, we’ll walk you through each stage with clarity and confidence so you can make Dubai truly feel like home for the whole family.
Whether you’re looking to sponsor a spouse, child, or parent, we are here to support you in making Dubai feel like home for the whole family. Let's get started!
Dubai, a vibrant and cosmopolitan city, offers a range of opportunities for expatriates to live and work. One of the key advantages of residing in Dubai is the ability to sponsor family members, allowing them to join you in this dynamic city. However, this process is governed by specific requirements and regulations that must be met by the sponsor. Here’s what you need to know about who can sponsor a family and what’s required.
To sponsor family members, the primary prerequisite is holding a valid UAE residency visa. This visa confirms that you're legally allowed to live and work in the UAE. The residency visa must be current and renewed as needed to maintain its validity.
The financial capability of the sponsor is a crucial factor in the sponsorship process. The UAE government mandates a minimum salary requirement, which varies based on the family member category you wish to sponsor. Generally, the salary requirement ranges from AED 4,000 to AED 10,000. It is essential to verify the exact salary requirement that applies to your specific situation, as these figures may be subject to changes and updates by the authorities.
Another critical requirement for sponsorship is providing suitable accommodation for the family members you wish to sponsor. You’ll need to show proof of housing, usually through a tenancy contract or Ejari certificate. These documents must reflect that the sponsor has secured adequate living conditions for their family in Dubai.
A sponsor can extend sponsorship to their spouse, allowing them to join and reside together in Dubai. This is a straightforward process, as long as the sponsor meets the eligibility requirements.
Sponsoring children is another common practice among expatriates in Dubai. You can sponsor children up to 18, and in some cases, up to 21 if they’re still in school or university. Unmarried daughters may be sponsored beyond this age.
Sponsoring parents are permissible but are subject to stricter conditions compared to other family members. The sponsor must demonstrate the financial capability to support their parents and meet the specific income criteria set for this category. It may also require proof that there are no other family members in the home country who can take care of the parents. Because the process is more complex, it’s a good idea to consult immigration authorities or legal experts.
Sponsoring a family member for residency in Dubai involves several steps, each requiring careful attention to detail and compliance with local regulations. Below, we outline the process to ensure a smooth transition for your loved ones. Take note of the following steps:
Before initiating the sponsorship process, ensure you have all the necessary documents ready. This will facilitate a smooth application without unnecessary delays.
If your family member is currently outside the UAE, you will need to apply for an entry permit for them. This is an essential step to legally bring them into the country. Submit the entry permit application through Dubai’s General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) online portal or through an authorised typing centre. The processing time for entry permits can vary, so it is advisable to apply well in advance of your family member’s intended travel date.
For family members aged 18 and above, a medical fitness test is mandatory to ensure they meet the health requirements set by the UAE authorities. You can take the tests at any approved medical centre in Dubai. It typically includes a blood test and a chest X-ray. The results are usually available within a few days. Be sure to keep the fitness certificate because you’ll need it when applying for the visa.
Once the entry permit and medical tests are done, submit your application for the visa and include all the gathered documents. After submission, the GDRFA will review the application. If approved, they will issue a residency visa that allows your family member to reside in Dubai legally.
The final step in the sponsorship process involves obtaining an Emirates ID and the stamping of the residency visa in your family member’s passport. Apply for an Emirates ID at the same time as the residency visa. The ID is essential for accessing various services in the UAE. Once the Emirates ID application is in process, the residency visa needs to be stamped in the passport. This step officially completes the sponsorship process, allowing your family member to live in Dubai.
When sponsoring family members for residency, understanding the associated costs, expected timelines, and essential tips can greatly enhance the efficiency and success of the process. Below, we delve into the details of each aspect to ensure you are well-prepared.
Sponsoring family members involves several costs, which can vary based on specific circumstances and the type of visa being applied for. It's important to budget for these expenses to avoid any surprises.
The initial stage of the sponsorship process involves securing an entry permit and applying for the residency visa. The costs for these can range from AED 2,000 to AED 4,000 per person. Costs vary depending on how urgently you need the application processed and the specific agency or service provider fees.
Once the entry permit is secured, medical tests are a mandatory requirement. These tests include screenings for diseases such as tuberculosis and HIV, as part of the health regulations in Dubai. The cost for medical tests typically ranges between AED 300 to AED 700 per person, depending on the clinic or hospital selected.
The final step involves applying for an Emirates ID, which serves as an official identity card in the UAE. The cost for obtaining an Emirates ID is approximately AED 370 to AED 500. This fee is for a typical three-year validity period, aligning with the duration of the residency visa.
Knowing how long things usually take can help you plan better and avoid surprises. Generally, the entire process of sponsoring a family member for residency in Dubai takes about 1 to 2 weeks. This timeframe covers the submission of applications, processing, and obtaining necessary approvals. However, it is advisable to account for any potential delays, especially during peak processing periods or holidays.
Navigating the sponsorship process can be complex, so here are some tips to streamline the journey:
Before submission, ensure that all foreign documents are duly attested by the relevant authorities. This attestation must be done in the country of origin and further authenticated by the UAE embassy. Without proper attestation, your documents might be rejected, so double-check everything.
Dubai has specific salary and accommodation requirements for sponsors. Ensure that your salary meets the threshold set by immigration authorities and that you have suitable accommodation to support your family members. Failure to meet these requirements can result in application rejection or delays.
If you are unfamiliar with the documentation process, consider using a registered typing centre. These centres are equipped with knowledgeable staff who can assist in preparing and submitting the necessary documents accurately. This service can help prevent common errors that may lead to processing delays or rejections.
In conclusion, sponsoring your family for residency in Dubai is a significant step toward building a fulfilling life together in the UAE. With clear guidelines on eligibility, documentation, and procedures, the process is entirely achievable with the right support. MTG Global Group is here to help you every step of the way, ensuring your application is smooth, compliant, and stress-free. Contact us today to start bringing your loved ones closer to home in Dubai.
