Introduction
Applying for a UAE family visa allows you to bring your loved ones to live with you in one of the most dynamic and family friendly countries in the Middle East. The UAE government has made it easy for expats including Pakistanis working or living in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and other emirates to sponsor their family members.
This 2025 guide by Flyingcolour Business Setup Pakistan explains UAE family visa rules, application process, eligibility criteria and costs.
What is Family Visa in UAE
A UAE family visa is a residence permit that allows expat employees or business owners to sponsor their immediate family members such as spouse, children and parents to live with them in the UAE. This visa provides dependents with legal residency and access to essential services such as healthcare, education and Emirates ID registration.
Eligibility Criteria for Family Visa UAE
To apply for a family visa in the UAE, the sponsor must meet the eligibility criteria set by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA).
For Male Sponsors:
- Must earn a minimum monthly salary of AED 4,000 or AED 3,000 with accommodation.
- Must have a valid UAE residence visa.
- Can sponsor wife, children and parents (subject to approval).
For Female Sponsors:
- Must work in a professional field such as medicine, engineering or education.
- Must earn at least AED 10,000 per month or AED 8,000 with accommodation.
- Can sponsor children and husband after special approval from authorities.
Documents Required for Family Visa UAE
Applicants need to submit the following documents when applying for family visa in Dubai or Abu Dhabi:
- Valid passport copies of the sponsor and dependents.
- Passport sized photographs with white background.
- Sponsor’s Emirates ID and UAE residence visa.
- Attested marriage certificate for spouse visa.
- Birth certificates for children.
- Tenancy contract or Ejari certificate.
- Salary certificate or labor contract.
- Latest utility bill.
- Medical fitness certificate (for dependents above 18 years).
How to Apply for Family Visa UAE
The family visa process in UAE involves several steps that must be followed accurately to avoid delays:1. Entry Permit Application: Submit an entry permit for your family members through GDRFA or ICP portal.
- Medical Examination: Dependents above 18 years must undergo a medical fitness test.
- Emirates ID Application: Apply for Emirates ID after medical clearance.
- Visa Stamping: Submit the passport for visa stamping after completing the process.
The total process takes around 7 to 10 working days depending on documentation and approval timelines.
Duration and Renewal of Family Visa UAE
UAE family visa is generally valid for one to three years depending on sponsor’s visa type and work contract. Renewal must be done before visa expiry date to avoid fines.
To renew the family visa, submit the same set of documents along with updated medical test results and proof of income.
UAE Family Visa Costs 2025
Family visa cost in the UAE may vary depending on number of dependents, emirate of application and medical test fees. On average 2025 costs are:
- Entry permit: AED 500 to AED 1,000
- Medical test: AED 250 to AED 400
- Emirates ID: AED 370 to AED 500
- Visa stamping: AED 500 to AED 800
A Dubai family visa for a spouse and two children may cost between AED 3,000 to AED 4,000 including all documentation and processing charges.
Family Visa Rules and Regulations in the UAE
- UAE authorities have specific rules to ensure smooth sponsorship:
- Dependents must enter the UAE within 60 days after visa issuance.
- Medical tests are mandatory for dependents above 18 years.
- Sponsors must have a valid residency visa at all times.
- Overstaying dependents will incur daily fines.
How Flyingcolour Business Setup Pakistan Can Help
Flyingcolour Business Setup Pakistan provides complete assistance in UAE family visa services, from documentation to approvals. Our experienced team helps Pakistani expatriates sponsor their families in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and across the UAE with ease.
We will guide you through:
- Eligibility checks and document preparation.
- Entry permit and visa stamping.
- Emirates ID and medical test coordination.
- Visa renewals and dependents’ status changes.We have years of experience in UAE visa and business setup services.
FAQs
1. What is the minimum salary to sponsor a family in the UAE?
AED 4,000 or AED 3,000 with accommodation.
2. How long does it take to get a family visa in Dubai?
7 to 10 working days depending on document verification and approvals.
3. Can a woman sponsor her family in the UAE?
Yes, if she meets salary and professional eligibility criteria.
4. How much does a UAE family visa cost in 2025?
AED 3,000 to AED 4,000 including medical, Emirates ID and stamping fees.
5. Can parents be sponsored under a UAE family visa?
Yes with special approval and additional income requirements.