UAE Family Visa Guide 2026: Key Requirements, Fees, and Application Process

Overview of the UAE Family Visa Process in 2026

As a new resident of the UAE, bringing your family to join you can be a rewarding experience. The UAE family visa allows residents to sponsor their spouse and children once certain eligibility criteria are met. In 2026, the process has continued to evolve, providing streamlined options for families looking to secure residence in the UAE.

Eligibility Criteria for Sponsoring Family Members

Before initiating the application process, it is crucial to determine your eligibility as a family sponsor. Here are the key requirements:

Minimum Salary Requirements

• For Spouse and Children: A family sponsor must earn a minimum salary of Dh4,000 per month, or Dh3,000 with additional accommodation proof. Job title is not a disqualifying factor for applicants.
• For Parents: Higher income thresholds apply. To sponsor parents, the required minimum salary is Dh20,000. However, the GDRFA offers a humanitarian option through Amer centres, with a reduced salary requirement of Dh10,000.

Age Restrictions

• Sponsoring Children: There is no age limit for unmarried daughters, and sons can be sponsored up to the age of 25 if they are enrolled in an accredited educational institution.

Special Cases

• Golden Visa Holders: Those with a golden visa can sponsor their spouse, children, and parents without needing to meet minimum salary requirements.
• UAE Citizens: UAE nationals can sponsor spouses, parents, or children on a five-year residency without employment conditions for the foreign passport holder.

Required Documentation for the Application

Before applying, gather all necessary documents to ensure a smooth process:

General Documents for Family Sponsorship

• Application form (online or typed)
• Copies of passports and recent photos of family members
• Sponsor's employment contract, Emirates ID, and passport
• Sponsor's salary certificate from the employer
• Attested marriage certificate (for spouse) in Arabic
• Attested birth certificates (for children) in Arabic
• Registered tenancy contract

Additional Documents for Sponsoring Parents

• Health insurance policy for parents covering their medical conditions
• Security deposit (refundable) as determined by immigration
• Proof of dependency, such as an affidavit confirming financial support

Step-by-Step Application Process

Once you have your documents ready, follow these steps to complete the application:

Step 1: Submit the Application

• Visit Amer centres in Dubai or registered typing centres to submit your visa application. Ensure all documents are in place for submission. You can also apply online through various official portals, including the UAE PASS and ICP websites.

Step 2: Medical Fitness Test

• All family members aged 18 and above must undergo a mandatory medical fitness test at approved health centres. Results are typically available within 24 to 48 hours.

Step 3: Obtain Emirates IDs

• After passing the medical tests, family members can apply for Emirates IDs which are required for residency.

Step 4: Visa Stamping and Fees

• Submit your documents for visa stamping at the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICP) either online or at an Amer centre.

Fees Structure for 2026 Family Visa

a The application process involves various fees:

• Entry Permit Fee: Approximately Dh548.90
• Service Charges: About Dh300
• Emirates ID Fee: Dh270 (valid for two years)
• Medical Fitness Test Fee: Dh320
• Visa Stamping Fee: Dh580

Additional charges may apply if your family members are already in the UAE, such as a Dh750 fee for status changes.

Understanding the UAE family visa requirements and application process is essential for residents hoping to reunite with their loved ones. With the correct documentation and the necessary steps, sponsoring family members can be a straightforward process.