Bringing your family to the UAE is a dream for many expatriates living and working in the country. Whether you’re new to the Emirates or have recently secured a stable job, one key question remains on your mind: Is the family visa open in the UAE right now?
As of mid-2025, the UAE’s family visa system is not only open—it has become more flexible, inclusive, and straightforward than before. The government has made several updates to make it easier for expatriates to sponsor their families, whether they are on work visas, freelance permits, or business licenses.
Let’s walk through everything you need to know about the current status of family visas in the UAE, including eligibility, documents, process, and recent changes.
Yes, Family Visa Is Open and Fully Operational
Family visas in the UAE are currently open and being processed across all seven emirates. Whether you’re in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, or elsewhere, you can apply for family sponsorship provided you meet the eligibility requirements.
There were brief delays and stricter controls during the COVID-19 pandemic and economic shifts, but those are now lifted. The visa system has normalized, and thousands of residents are successfully sponsoring their families.
Who Can Sponsor a Family Member in 2025?
The UAE has relaxed many previous restrictions around profession-based sponsorship. In the past, only certain job titles were eligible (like doctors, engineers, teachers). Now, the focus is more on income level than job role.
Here’s who can sponsor:
- Any expat resident with a valid residence visa
- Minimum monthly salary: AED 4,000, or AED 3,000 + accommodation
- Applicable to both men and women (women must meet certain conditions)
Profession no longer matters, as long as your income is sufficient and you have stable accommodation.
Who Can Be Sponsored on a Family Visa?
You can sponsor the following family members:
- Wife or Husband (legally married, with authenticated marriage certificate)
- Children (sons under 25 years, daughters of any age if unmarried)
- Parents (subject to certain conditions and higher salary threshold)
For children with disabilities, there is no age limit for sponsorship. Stepchildren can also be sponsored, provided legal documents and consent letters are submitted.
Recent Changes in UAE Family Visa Rules
The UAE government has introduced several family-friendly updates to the visa system:
- No job title restrictions: Anyone earning the minimum salary can sponsor
- Extended son sponsorship: Sons can now be sponsored up to age 25, up from 18
- Flexible residence options: Family members can now get 2-year or 3-year visas
- Women sponsors allowed: Female residents can now sponsor their families more easily, especially in emirates like Dubai and Abu Dhabi
- Longer grace periods: If a visa is cancelled or expires, dependents now get 30 to 60 days to renew or exit
These changes reflect the UAE’s ongoing efforts to retain talent and promote family stability.
Documents Required to Apply for a Family Visa
To apply for a family visa, you’ll need the following documents:
For the sponsor:
- Passport copy
- Residence visa copy
- Emirates ID
- Salary certificate or labor contract
- Tenancy contract (Ejari or municipality-approved)
- Latest utility bill
- IBAN or bank statement (in some cases)
For the dependent:
- Passport copy
- Passport-size photo (white background)
- Medical fitness test report (for adults)
- Marriage certificate (attested)
- Birth certificates for children (attested)
- Translation and legalization of foreign documents
It’s best to ensure all documents are in Arabic or translated and legally attested to avoid rejection.
Steps to Apply for a Family Visa in UAE
The process involves multiple stages:
- Entry Permit Application (if family is outside UAE)
- Medical Test (for applicants aged 18+)
- Emirates ID application
- Health insurance (mandatory in most emirates)
- Visa stamping (residence visa added to passport)
You can do this through:
- Amer Centres (Dubai)
- TASHEEL or typing centres
- Online portals (ICP, GDRFA)
- Company PRO or personal sponsorship
Processing time is usually 5–10 working days once all documents are in order.
Cost of UAE Family Visa in 2025
The cost varies depending on the emirate and duration of the visa. Here’s a general estimate:
- Entry permit: AED 500 – AED 1,000
- Medical test: AED 250 – AED 400
- Emirates ID: AED 270 – AED 500
- Visa stamping: AED 300 – AED 500
- Health insurance: AED 600 – AED 2,000 annually (depends on provider)
Expect to spend AED 3,000–5,000 per person for the full process, depending on the specifics.
Can You Sponsor Family on a Freelance or Investor Visa?
Yes. The UAE allows freelancers, business owners, and investors to sponsor their families.
However, you’ll need:
- Valid freelance license or investor visa
- Proof of steady income (usually above AED 10,000 per month)
- Attested office lease or Ejari
- Business activity documentation
These cases are subject to more scrutiny, but approval is possible with the right paperwork.
Common Reasons for Rejection and How to Avoid Them
Family visa applications may be rejected due to:
- Insufficient salary
- Missing or un-attested documents
- Unclear relationship proof
- Poor accommodation documentation
- Expired Emirates ID or visa of the sponsor
To avoid issues:
- Double-check all paperwork
- Translate and attest foreign documents
- Make sure salary and housing are clearly documented
- Use professional typing or PRO services if unsure
Final Thoughts: Family Visa in UAE Is Open and Easier Than Ever
The UAE continues to welcome families of expatriate workers, freelancers, and business owners. With simplified rules, inclusive salary criteria, and broader eligibility, 2025 is an excellent time to apply for a family visa if you’re living in the Emirates.
As long as you meet the income requirement, provide proper accommodation, and submit verified documents, the process is smooth and efficient. Always stay updated with the latest policies and seek assistance from official service centers if needed.
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