Family Visa Rules in Dubai have recently undergone major updates aimed at simplifying the sponsorship process for expatriates. These changes reflect the UAE’s commitment to creating a more inclusive, family-friendly society. Whether you are a professional looking to bring your family to Dubai or a business owner setting up operations in the UAE, understanding the latest Family Visa Rules in Dubai is crucial.
Key Changes to Family Visa Rules in Dubai
1. Profession No Longer a Sponsorship Barrier
Under the new Family Visa Rules in Dubai, any expatriate resident can now sponsor their family, regardless of profession, provided salary requirements are met. This opens the door for more residents to reunite with their families.
2. Updated Salary Thresholds
- Male Sponsors: Must earn at least AED 4,000/month or AED 3,000 with employer-provided housing.
- Female Sponsors: Must earn AED 10,000/month or AED 8,000 with housing (especially in professions like healthcare, teaching, or engineering).
These revised income levels reflect the more inclusive Family Visa Rules in Dubai and empower more women to sponsor dependents.
3. Extended Child Sponsorship Age
Under current Family Visa Rules in Dubai:
- Sons can be sponsored up to age 25 (if unmarried).
- Daughters can be sponsored regardless of age as long as they are unmarried.
- Children with disabilities can be sponsored for life.
4. Rules for Sponsoring Parents
According to the 2025 Family Visa Rules in Dubai, expatriates can sponsor parents by:
- Earning AED 20,000/month or AED 19,000 with 2-bedroom accommodation.
- Paying a refundable deposit of AED 2,500 per parent.
- Securing valid medical insurance for each parent.
5. Health Insurance is Mandatory
New Family Visa Rules in Dubai require all family members to have active health insurance before the visa is granted.
6. Emirates ID Now Replaces Visa Stamp
One of the most user-friendly changes to Family Visa Rules in Dubai is the integration of residency details into the Emirates ID. There’s no longer a need for a passport visa stamp, making travel and identification more convenient.
7. Visa Grace Period for Dependents
The new Family Visa Rules in Dubai offer a 30-day grace period after visa expiry to renew dependents’ visas without incurring fines.
Family Visa Application Process in Dubai
To apply for a family visa under the new Family Visa Rules in Dubai, follow these steps:
Collect the Required Documents:
- Sponsor and dependent passport copies
- Passport photos
- Attested marriage and birth certificates
- Salary certificate
- Proof of accommodation (e.g., tenancy contract)
Submit Your Application:
- Through ICP or GDRFA-Dubai websites
- Or in person at Amer centers or typing centers
Undergo Medical Fitness Test:
Mandatory for all dependents aged 18+
Apply for Emirates ID:
Now the main residency document under the revised Family Visa Rules in Dubai
Family Visa Fees in Dubai (Estimated)
- Entry Permit: AED 550
- File Opening: AED 300
- Emirates ID (2 years): AED 385
- Medical Fitness Test: AED 320
- Visa Stamping: AED 580
- Status Change (if needed): AED 750
Note: Prices may vary depending on your specific case and service provider.
Important Guidelines to Remember
- 60 Days Timeline: Apply for a family visa within 60 days of dependent’s entry into Dubai.
- Visa Duration: Typically valid for 2 years and tied to the sponsor’s visa.
- Stepchildren: Need NOC from biological parent and are eligible for 1-year renewable visa.
The Family Visa Rules in Dubai are designed to offer greater flexibility, especially for modern family structures.
Why These Family Visa Rules in Dubai Matter
The revamped Family Visa Rules in Dubai make it easier for expatriates to live with their families in a stable, secure, and welcoming environment. These updates reduce barriers and promote long-term residency, aligning with the UAE’s goal of becoming a global hub for talent and innovation.
Whether you’re setting up a business, working as a professional, or relocating your family, the Family Visa Rules in Dubai are more accessible and streamlined than ever before.
FAQs
What are the latest Family Visa Rules in Dubai for 2025?
The 2025 Family Visa Rules in Dubai have removed profession-based restrictions, updated salary thresholds, and expanded eligibility for sponsoring children and parents. Residency visa details are now embedded in the Emirates ID, eliminating the need for passport stamps.
Can a woman sponsor her family under the new Family Visa Rules in Dubai?
Yes, according to the updated Family Visa Rules in Dubai, female residents can sponsor their family members if they earn a minimum salary of AED 10,000 per month, or AED 8,000 with company-provided accommodation, particularly in qualified professions.
What is the minimum salary to sponsor a family in Dubai?
Under the new Family Visa Rules in Dubai:
Male sponsors need AED 4,000/month or AED 3,000 with accommodation.
Female sponsors need AED 10,000/month or AED 8,000 with accommodation.
Can I sponsor my son who is over 18 years old?
Yes, under the revised Family Visa Rules in Dubai, you can sponsor your unmarried son until the age of 25. Daughters can be sponsored regardless of age, as long as they are unmarried.
What are the requirements to sponsor parents in Dubai?
As per Family Visa Rules in Dubai, to sponsor parents, you need:
AED 20,000/month salary or AED 19,000 with 2-bedroom accommodation.
A refundable deposit of AED 2,500 per parent.
Valid medical insurance for each parent.
Is medical insurance mandatory under the Family Visa Rules in Dubai?
Yes, medical insurance is compulsory for all sponsored family members under the updated Family Visa Rules in Dubai. The visa will not be granted without valid coverage.
Do I need to stamp the visa on my passport?
No, the new Family Visa Rules in Dubai have integrated residency details into the Emirates ID. The Emirates ID now serves as the primary residency document, replacing physical visa stamps.
What happens if a family visa expires?
The updated Family Visa Rules in Dubai provide a 30-day grace period after a visa expires. During this time, sponsors can renew the visa without paying overstay fines.
How long is a family visa valid in Dubai?
Typically, family visas are valid for 2 years, depending on the sponsor’s visa validity. These rules are consistent with the current Family Visa Rules in Dubai.
Can stepchildren be sponsored under Family Visa Rules in Dubai?
Yes, but you’ll need a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the biological parent. Stepchildren visas are usually valid for 1 year, renewable annually, as outlined in the Family Visa Rules in Dubai.
