UAE Visas for Your Dependants: Complete 2026 Residency Guide

Who Can You Sponsor Under a UAE Dependant Visa?

UAE residents with a valid residence visa can typically sponsor:

Spouse
Children (with specific age rules for sons and daughters)
Parents, subject to additional financial conditions
Step-children, with NOC and legal documentation

The exact rules may differ slightly depending on the emirate and the category of your visa.

Eligibility Requirements for Sponsoring Dependants

1. Valid Residency Status

The sponsor must hold an active UAE residence visa — whether as an employee, investor, partner, freelancer, or long-term visa holder.

2. Minimum Salary Threshold

Sponsors must meet the required income level, generally around:

AED 4,000 per month, or
AED 3,000 per month + accommodation

Higher salaries may be required for sponsoring parents.

3. Suitable Accommodation

You must provide proof of housing, typically a tenancy contract or Ejari, to demonstrate adequate living arrangements for dependants.

4. Attested Legal Documents

Marriage certificates, birth certificates, and other family documents must be translated (if needed) and officially attested.

5. Health Insurance Coverage

Dependants must have valid health insurance — mandatory in many emirates — at the time of applying or renewing residency.

Step-by-Step UAE Dependant Visa Process

1. Document Preparation

Gather all required paperwork, including:

Sponsor’s passport and visa copy
Emirates ID
Attested marriage/birth certificates
Tenancy contract
Salary certificate or labor contract
Passport-size photos

2. Apply for Entry Permit

If your dependant is outside the UAE, an entry permit will be issued to allow them to enter the country.

3. Medical Fitness Test

Dependants aged 18 and above must undergo a UAE medical test as part of the residence visa process.

4. Emirates ID Application

Biometrics and Emirates ID registration are required after the entry permit or status change.

5. Visa Stamping

The final step is stamping the dependant's residence visa on their passport. Processing times may vary based on emirate, visa category, and document completeness.

Benefits of a UAE Dependant Visa

Legally live in the UAE
Access education and healthcare
Ability to open bank accounts
Freedom to travel in and out of the country
Long-term stability for expat families

Dependants must remain compliant with immigration rules and renew visas before expiry.

Important Things to Remember

Dependant visa validity is linked to the sponsor’s visa.
If the sponsor’s visa is cancelled or expires, dependant visas must be updated or cancelled.
Dependants who wish to work must obtain a work permit and employment visa.
Visa validity generally ranges from 1 to 3 years depending on visa type and sponsor’s category.

Dependants Visa Assistance by BizVibez Consultants

BizVibez Consultants offers end-to-end support for dependant visa applications, ensuring your family joins you in the UAE smoothly and without delays.

Our Services Include:

Bank Account Opening in UAE
Health Insurance & Compliance Services
Operational & Administrative Support
Virtual Office Services
Legal & PRO Services