Bringing your family to live with you in Sharjah is a milestone many expatriates look forward to. The Sharjah Family Residence Visa Process allows residents to legally sponsor their spouse, children, and in some cases, parents, so they can live together in the UAE.
Understanding the process, eligibility requirements, documentation, and approvals is essential to avoid delays. This guide explains everything in a simple, human-centered way so you can move forward with clarity and confidence.
What Is the Sharjah Family Residence Visa?
A family residence visa allows a UAE resident to sponsor immediate family members to live in the country. In Sharjah, visa applications are processed through the relevant immigration authorities under the UAE’s federal system.
The sponsor must hold a valid UAE residence visa. Once approved, the sponsored family member receives legal residency status aligned with the sponsor’s visa duration.
Who Can Sponsor Family Members in Sharjah?
To apply under the Sharjah Family Residence Visa Process, the sponsor must meet specific eligibility criteria.
Employment Status
The sponsor must be legally employed or own a business in the UAE with a valid residence visa. Both private sector and government employees can apply.
Minimum Salary Requirement
The UAE requires a minimum monthly salary threshold for sponsoring family members. Generally:
• A minimum salary of AED 4,000, or
• AED 3,000 plus accommodation provided by the employer
These figures may be subject to updates based on federal immigration policies.
Eligible Family Members
You can sponsor:
• Spouse
• Sons (typically up to a certain age unless studying)
• Unmarried daughters
• Parents (subject to additional conditions and higher salary requirements)
Each category may have additional documentation requirements.
Step-by-Step Sharjah Family Residence Visa Process
Understanding each stage of the application helps reduce errors and unnecessary back-and-forth.
Step 1: Entry Permit Application
If your family member is outside the UAE, you must first apply for an entry permit. This allows them to legally enter the country under your sponsorship.
Applications are submitted through authorized typing centers or immigration service portals.
Step 2: Medical Fitness Test
After arrival, family members above a certain age must undergo a medical fitness test at an approved medical center in Sharjah. This typically includes blood tests and a chest X-ray.
Medical clearance is mandatory before visa stamping.
Step 3: Emirates ID Application
The next step is applying for an Emirates ID. Biometric data such as fingerprints and photographs are collected during this stage.
The Emirates ID is essential for accessing healthcare, banking, and government services in the UAE.
Step 4: Health Insurance
Health insurance is mandatory for all residents. You must provide proof of valid medical insurance coverage for your sponsored family member before completing the visa process.
Step 5: Visa Stamping
Once medical clearance and Emirates ID procedures are completed, the residence visa is stamped on the passport. This confirms legal residency under your sponsorship.
The visa validity typically matches the sponsor’s residence visa.
Required Documents for Sharjah Family Residence Visa
Preparing documents in advance can significantly speed up approval.
Sponsor’s Documents
• Passport copy
• Valid UAE residence visa copy
• Emirates ID copy
• Salary certificate or labor contract
• Tenancy contract (attested)
Family Member’s Documents
• Passport copy
• Passport-sized photographs
• Attested marriage certificate (for spouse)
• Attested birth certificates (for children)
• Entry permit copy
All foreign-issued documents must be legally attested in the country of origin and by UAE authorities.
Processing Time
The Sharjah Family Residence Visa Process generally takes between one to three weeks, depending on document completeness and medical clearance.
Delays may occur if:
• Documents are incomplete
• Attestation is missing
• Medical results require further review
Submitting correct documentation from the beginning helps ensure smooth processing.
Visa Validity and Renewal
Family residence visas are usually issued for one, two, or three years, depending on the sponsor’s visa category.
Renewal must be completed before expiry to avoid fines. The renewal process follows similar steps, including medical tests and insurance updates where applicable.
If the sponsor cancels their visa, the family members’ visas must also be canceled or transferred to another sponsor.
Sponsoring Parents in Sharjah
Sponsoring parents involves stricter requirements.
Higher Salary Requirement
Sponsors typically need a higher minimum salary to sponsor parents. Immigration authorities may also require a refundable deposit per parent.
Medical Insurance
Comprehensive medical insurance coverage is mandatory for parents and must meet UAE health authority standards.
Proof of Sole Support
Authorities may request evidence showing the sponsor is the primary financial supporter of the parents.
Common Reasons for Rejection
While the Sharjah Family Residence Visa Process is straightforward, certain issues can cause delays or rejection:
• Incomplete or incorrect documentation
• Unattested certificates
• Failure to meet salary requirements
• Medical test failure
• Expired tenancy contract
Double-checking documents and eligibility before submission reduces the risk of complications.
Cost of Sharjah Family Residence Visa
The total cost depends on several factors including:
• Entry permit fees
• Medical test charges
• Emirates ID fees
• Visa stamping fees
• Insurance costs
Fees may vary depending on visa duration and immigration policies. It is advisable to confirm current charges through authorized channels before applying.
Important Considerations Before Applying
Before beginning the Sharjah Family Residence Visa Process, keep these points in mind:
• Ensure your own residence visa is valid for sufficient duration
• Confirm tenancy contract registration
• Keep attested documents ready in advance
• Budget for insurance and government fees
• Plan the timeline carefully if your family is entering from abroad
Planning ahead makes the transition smoother for everyone involved.
Life After Visa Approval
Once the residence visa is issued, your family members can:
• Open bank accounts
• Enroll children in schools
• Access healthcare services
• Apply for driving licenses (if eligible)
• Travel in and out of the UAE
The residence visa provides stability and peace of mind, allowing families to build their lives together in Sharjah.
Why Understanding the Process Matters
For many expatriates, bringing family to the UAE is not just paperwork. It is about unity, security, and building a future together. Understanding the Sharjah Family Residence Visa Process ensures you move forward with clarity instead of confusion.
When you approach the process step by step, with complete documentation and awareness of eligibility rules, the journey becomes much smoother.
Sharjah continues to be a family-friendly emirate offering affordable housing, educational institutions, and a balanced lifestyle. With proper preparation, sponsoring your loved ones can be a straightforward and rewarding experience.
Do follow UAE Stories on Instagram
Read Next – Sharjah Rental Deposit Refund Rules: A Complete Tenant Guide
