How to Sponsor Your Parents in Dubai in 2026 – Complete Guide

Living and working in Dubai offers excellent opportunities, but many expatriates eventually want to bring their parents to live with them. If you are considering sponsoring your parents in Dubai in 2026, you’ll need to meet specific eligibility criteria, prepare the right documents, and follow the official process set by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA).

This guide explains everything you need to know about sponsoring parents in Dubai, including requirements, documents, fees, processing time, and expert tips to avoid rejection.

Understanding Parent Sponsorship in Dubai

What Does Sponsoring Parents Mean in Dubai?

Sponsorship means taking financial and legal responsibility for your parents’ stay in Dubai. Just like companies sponsor employees, you as a resident can sponsor your parents, ensuring their expenses, accommodation, and residency rights are legally covered.

Who Can Sponsor Their Parents in Dubai?

Only residents with valid UAE residence visas and sufficient income are eligible. The sponsor must prove they can financially support their parents and provide suitable accommodation.

Eligibility Criteria for Sponsoring Parents in Dubai (2026)

To successfully sponsor your parents, you must:

• Earn a minimum monthly salary of AED 20,000 or higher (as per updated rules in 2026).

• Provide a tenancy contract in your name showing suitable housing.

• Submit proof that you are the sole supporter of your parents.

• Sponsor both parents together (exceptions may be made if one parent is deceased).

Documents Required to Sponsor Parents in Dubai

Mandatory Documents for Sponsors

• Typed application form from a registered typing center.

• Copy of the sponsor’s valid Emirates ID and residence visa.

• Original passport of the sponsor.

• Salary certificate or bank statement as proof of income.

• Tenancy contract (Ejari) as proof of accommodation.

Required Documents from Parents

• Clear passport copies of both parents.

• Proof of relationship (e.g., birth certificate attested by the embassy).

• Consulate letter confirming dependency status.

• Passport-size photographs.

Step-by-Step Process to Sponsor Parents in Dubai

1. Apply for Entry Permit or Convert Visit Visa

If your parents are already in Dubai on a visit visa, you can convert it to a residence visa. If not, apply for an entry permit first.

2. Submit Sponsorship Application to GDRFA

• Visit the GDRFA Dubai service center or apply online.

• Submit all required documents along with the sponsorship request letter.

• Approval is usually granted within 1–2 weeks.

3. Medical Tests & Emirates ID Registration

• Parents must undergo a mandatory medical fitness test.

• Apply for Emirates ID registration after the test.

4. Final Visa Stamping & Residence Visa Issuance

Once approved, passports are stamped with the residence visa, valid for 1 year (renewable).

Fees & Costs for Sponsoring Parents in Dubai (2026)

The costs may vary, but typically include:

• Entry permit fees: AED 500 – 1,000

• Medical test: AED 350 – 500

• Emirates ID: AED 500 – 1,000 (depending on validity)

• Visa stamping & typing fees: AED 1,000 – 2,000

Total estimated cost per parent: AED 3,000 – 4,500

Validity & Renewal of Parent Visa in Dubai

• Parent visas are generally valid for 1 year.

• Renewal requires repeating medical tests, Emirates ID renewal, and payment of renewal fees.

• Sponsors must continue to meet the salary and accommodation requirements for renewals.

Common Reasons for Visa Rejection & How to Avoid Them

• Failure to meet minimum salary criteria.

• Missing or incomplete documentation.

• Attempting to sponsor only one parent without proof of death/divorce.

• Submitting false or unauthenticated relationship proofs.

Tip: Always verify documents are attested and translated into Arabic if required.

Benefits of Sponsoring Parents in Dubai

• Peace of mind with your parents living close to you.

• Access to high-quality healthcare and facilities for your parents.

• Strengthening family bonds while living abroad.

Risks of Applying Without Professional Help

Many applicants face delays or rejection due to incorrect paperwork or misunderstanding of updated laws. Using unreliable agents can lead to visa rejection, financial loss, or even blacklisting.

Choosing a trusted professional visa service ensures:

• Compliance with 2026 regulations.

• Faster processing.

• Guidance on documentation and renewals.

How We Can Help You with Sponsorship Applications

At Dubai Visit Visa Online, we specialize in handling parent sponsorship applications with 99% approval rates. Our experts guide you from documentation to visa stamping, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free process.

👉 Apply now to sponsor your parents in Dubai through our trusted platform and reunite your family without stress.

Conclusion & Next Steps

Sponsoring your parents in Dubai in 2026 is possible if you meet the income, housing, and documentation requirements. By following the official steps and avoiding common mistakes, you can secure a residence visa for your parents and bring them closer to you.

👉 Apply today through Dubai Visit Visa Online to start your parent sponsorship process with confidence.