Dubai Family Visa Sponsorship 2026 – Complete Guide for Expatriates

Dubai is home to millions of expatriates, many of whom wish to bring their families to live with them. The Dubai family visa sponsorship system allows foreign residents to sponsor their spouse, children, and in some cases parents, provided they meet the required conditions.

In this guide, we’ll cover eligibility rules, salary requirements, documents, process, and fees for sponsoring family members in Dubai in 2026.

What is a Dubai Family Visa?

A Dubai family visa (residence visa under sponsorship) is a permit that allows expatriates to bring their dependents to live with them in Dubai legally. This visa is issued by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in coordination with ICP Smart Services.

It enables sponsored family members to live, study, and in some cases work in Dubai (subject to obtaining work permits).

Who Can Sponsor Family Members in Dubai?

Salary Requirements for Sponsorship in 2026

• Minimum monthly salary required: AED 4,000 OR AED 3,000 + accommodation.

• To sponsor parents: AED 20,000 per month (or AED 19,000 with accommodation).

• A valid UAE residence permit is mandatory.

Sponsorship Rules for Women in Dubai

Unlike before, in 2026 women can sponsor family members if they meet the salary criteria. However:

• Sponsorship eligibility may be limited to certain professions.

• Minimum salary requirement for women: AED 10,000 (or AED 8,000 with accommodation).

Family Members You Can Sponsor in Dubai

Sponsoring a Spouse in Dubai

• Valid attested marriage certificate (attested by UAE Embassy & MOFA).

• Proof of accommodation (Ejari or tenancy contract).

• Medical test required for spouse upon arrival.

Sponsoring Children in Dubai

• Sons can be sponsored up to age 25 (if unmarried).

• Daughters can be sponsored until marriage (no age cap).

• Stepchildren can be sponsored with special approvals and conditions.

Sponsoring Parents in Dubai

• Sponsor must earn at least AED 20,000 per month.

• Proof of no caretaker in home country required.

• Medical insurance for parents is compulsory.

Required Documents for Dubai Family Visa Sponsorship

• Valid passport copies of sponsor & family members (6+ months validity)

• UAE residence visa & Emirates ID of sponsor

• Recent passport-sized photos of dependents

• Attested marriage & birth certificates

• Salary certificate & labor contract

• Tenancy contract (Ejari) or accommodation proof

• Latest DEWA (utility) bill

• Medical fitness certificate (for adults)

Medical & Emirates ID Requirements

• Dependents above 18 years must undergo a medical fitness test (blood test & X-ray).

• Once medical clearance is issued, apply for Emirates ID registration.

Step-by-Step Process to Sponsor Family in Dubai

1. Check eligibility & salary criteria via GDRFA/ICP.

2. Gather required documents.

3. Submit sponsorship application through GDRFA Dubai or ICP Smart Services portal.

4. Pay applicable fees.

5. Receive entry permit for family member(s).

6. Complete medical tests & Emirates ID registration.

7. Receive residence visa stamping on passport.

Dubai Family Visa Fees in 2026

• Entry permit: AED 500 – AED 1,000 (varies by dependent type)

• Emirates ID: AED 370 – AED 1,070 (depending on years of validity)

• Medical test: AED 300 – AED 700

• Visa stamping & processing: AED 500 – AED 1,200

• Parent sponsorship deposit: AED 2,500 – AED 3,000 refundable

Duration & Validity of Family Visas in Dubai

• Validity: 1 year, 2 years, or 3 years depending on sponsor’s visa type.

• Renewable upon expiry if sponsor continues to meet requirements.

Extension & Renewal of Dubai Family Visa

• Renewal must be applied before expiry to avoid fines.

• Process: Repeat medical tests → Renew Emirates ID → Apply for new visa stamp.

• Grace period: 30 days after visa expiry.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Sponsoring Family

• Submitting unattested marriage or birth certificates.

• Insufficient salary or accommodation proof.

• Letting visa expire without renewal (daily fines apply).

• Applying through unlicensed agents (risk of rejection or fraud).

Why Apply Through Professional Services Instead? (H2)

Although sponsorship can be done individually, many expatriates face delays, document rejections, or rule misinterpretations. By applying through our professional visa experts at Dubai Visit Visa Online, you get:

• Accurate eligibility checks

• End-to-end documentation support

• Faster processing with GDRFA/ICP

• 24/7 support & guidance

👉 Apply now for your Dubai Family Visa Sponsorship in 2026 with complete peace of mind.

Conclusion & Apply Now

The Dubai family visa sponsorship process in 2026 is straightforward if you meet the salary and documentation requirements. Whether you want to sponsor your spouse, children, or parents, following the correct steps is essential to avoid delays.

👉 Apply with Dubai Visit Visa Online today and let our experts handle your family visa application with 100% accuracy and support.