The United Arab Emirates (UAE) stands as a beacon of opportunity, attracting expatriates from around the globe. Many choose to bring their families along, turning the UAE into a home away from home. However, navigating the intricacies of the UAE family residence visa process is crucial for those seeking to unite their families in this vibrant nation.
In this blog, we will explore the nine key requirements that expatriate residents must fulfill to get a UAE family residence visa.
1. Possession of a Valid UAE Family Residence Visa
First and foremost, expatriate residents seeking to sponsor their families in the UAE must ensure they possess a valid residence permit or visa. This could be a work visa sponsored by an employer or a self-sponsored visa like the Green Visa, Investor Visa, or the coveted Golden Visa.
2. Minimum Salary Requirement
A critical factor in the eligibility for UAE family residence visa is the sponsor’s minimum salary. Expatriate residents must have a minimum salary of Dh4,000, or Dh3,000 plus accommodation. Unlike before, the type of profession is no longer a condition for sponsorship eligibility, making the process more accessible.
3. Mandatory Medical Fitness Tests
Male and female family members above the age of 18 are required to undergo and pass medical fitness tests at approved health centers in the UAE. A clean bill of health is crucial for obtaining a residence visa, ensuring the well-being of the sponsored individuals. Medical conditions, if any, must be addressed with appropriate treatment and follow-up.
4. Timely Application for Dependents’ Residence Visa
Upon the entry of dependents into the UAE under an entry permit, the resident sponsor has a window of 60 days to apply for their residence visa. For newborns in the UAE, the residence visa application must be submitted within 120 days of their birth, emphasizing the importance of a prompt application process.
5. Sponsorship of Parents
Sponsoring parents requires the sponsorship of both together. In cases of divorce or the demise of one parent, official documents justifying the sponsorship of a single parent become necessary. The residence visa for parents is granted on a yearly basis, contingent upon meeting the salary requirement stipulated by the issuing emirate’s immigration department.
6. Daughter’s Sponsorship
An expatriate resident can sponsor their unmarried daughter, with no age restrictions imposed. This provision highlights the inclusivity of the family sponsorship process in the UAE.
7. Son’s Sponsorship
Both male and female residents can sponsor their sons until the age of 25. Remarkably, if the son is a Person of Determination, there are no age restrictions for sponsorship, reflecting the UAE’s commitment to inclusivity.
8. Stepchildren Sponsorship
Expatriate residents can sponsor their stepchildren, subject to the conditions set by the emirate’s immigration department. Specific requirements, such as a deposit for each child and a no-objection certificate (NOC) from the biological parent, must be fulfilled. Residence visas for stepchildren are valid for one year, renewable annually.
9. Required Documents for Wife and Children Sponsorship
When sponsoring a wife and children, certain documents are indispensable. These include an application form (online or through a registered typing office), passport copies of the wife and children, photos, medical clearance certificates (for those above 18), the sponsor’s employment or company contract, a salary certificate, an attested marriage certificate in Arabic, and a registered tenancy contract.
Cancellation and Grace Period
It’s crucial to note that UAE family residence visas are linked to the sponsoring family member’s visa. If the sponsor’s visa is canceled, it necessitates the cancellation of dependents’ visas. Dependents are granted a six-month grace period from the expiry or cancellation of their visas to obtain a new residence permit. Failure to renew or cancel dependents’ UAE family residence visas within this timeframe may result in fines for the sponsor.
In conclusion, the process of obtaining a UAE family residence visa is a meticulous journey that demands adherence to specific requirements. Expatriate residents, driven by the desire to unite their families in this dynamic country, must navigate these criteria diligently. By meeting the outlined conditions, families can start on a new chapter of togetherness in the UAE.