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How to Obtain a Dubai Family Visa

Dubai, a city known for its iconic skyline and luxurious lifestyle, is a sought-after destination for expatriates. If you’re planning to move to Dubai and want to bring your family along, understanding the family visa process is essential. This guide provides a detailed, step-by-step approach to help you navigate the process of obtaining a Dubai family visa smoothly.

dubai family visa

Types of Dubai Family Visas

When considering a family visa for Dubai, it’s important to know the different types available:

Short-term visit visas: These visas are suitable for family members visiting Dubai for a brief period, usually for up to 90 days.

Long-term residency visas: These visas are intended for family members who plan to live in Dubai for an extended duration, typically for one to three years.

Eligibility Criteria for Dubai Family Visa

To sponsor a family visa in Dubai, both the sponsor and the dependents must meet specific eligibility criteria:

Sponsor requirements: The sponsor, who is usually a working family member, must meet the minimum salary requirements, hold a valid residency permit, and provide proof of accommodation.

Dependent requirements: Dependents must include immediate family members like spouses and children, and they must meet age and health criteria.

Documents Required for Dubai Family Visa

Proper documentation is critical for a successful visa application. Here’s what you need:

General documents:

  • Passport copies of the sponsor and dependents
  • Passport-sized photographs
  • Completed visa application form

Sponsor-specific documents:

  • Salary certificate
  • Employment contract
  • Tenancy contract or accommodation proof

Dependent-specific documents:

  • Birth certificates for children
  • Marriage certificate for spouse
  • Health insurance documents
dubai family visa

Steps to Apply for a Dubai Family Visa

Follow these steps to apply for a Dubai family visa:

Step 1: Gather necessary documents: Ensure you have all the required documents organized.

Step 2: Apply online or through a typing center: You can apply via the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) website or visit an authorized typing center.

Step 3: Pay the required fees: Pay the visa application fees online or at the typing center.

Step 4: Apply: After completing the form and payment, submit your application.

Step 5: Track the application status: Monitor your application status online through the GDRFA portal.

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Sponsor Requirements

To sponsor a family visa, the sponsor must fulfill the following requirements:

Minimum salary requirements: The sponsor must earn a minimum salary as stipulated by Dubai authorities, which may vary based on the family member being sponsored.

Employment status: The sponsor must be employed in Dubai and have a valid residency permit.

Accommodation proof: The sponsor must provide proof of suitable accommodation for the family.

Navigating the Dubai family visa process might seem daunting, but with the right information and preparation, it can be straightforward. By understanding the requirements, gathering the necessary documents, and following the application steps, you can bring your family to Dubai and start a new chapter of life together.

Can I Work in Dubai with a Family Visa?

No, a family visa does not grant the right to work. Dependents who wish to work in Dubai must obtain a separate work permit sponsored by their employer.

If your family visa application is rejected, you can take the following steps:

Identify the reasons for rejection: Carefully review the rejection letter to understand the specific reasons for rejection.

Address the issues: Correct any issues that led to the rejection, such as providing missing documents or meeting eligibility criteria.

Reapply or seek legal assistance: Once the issues are resolved, you can reapply for the visa or seek assistance from a legal expert to navigate the process.

Dependents can stay in Dubai as long as the sponsor’s visa is valid and regularly renewed. If the sponsor’s visa expires or is canceled, the dependent visas will also become invalid.

Yes, you can sponsor your parents for a family visa in Dubai, but there are additional requirements you must meet:

Higher minimum salary: You may need to show a higher minimum salary than when sponsoring a spouse or children.

Proof of no other caregivers: You must provide proof that your parents have no other caregivers in their home country.

Family visas in Dubai are typically valid for one to three years, depending on the sponsor’s visa status. It is crucial to monitor the visa expiry date and start the renewal process in advance to avoid any legal complications.