The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has made significant changes to the rules regarding sponsoring residence visas for family members. Both employers and employees with valid UAE residence visas can now sponsor their families, regardless of their job titles, as long as they meet certain salary requirements.
Previously, there were restrictions on who could sponsor family visas in the UAE, but now employees can sponsor their families if they earn a minimum salary of AED 4,000 or AED 3,000 plus accommodation. This new rule has made it easier for expatriates living and working in the UAE to bring their families to join them.
One of the key requirements for sponsoring a visa for family members is the sponsor’s salary. The sponsor must have a minimum salary of AED 4,000 or AED 3,000 plus accommodation to be eligible to sponsor their family members. Additionally, family members above the age of 18 must undergo and pass medical fitness tests at approved health centers in the UAE.
There are specific documentation requirements for sponsoring a visa for family members, including an application form, passport copies, photos, medical clearance certificates, employment contracts, salary certificates, marriage certificates, and tenancy contracts. These documents are necessary to prove the sponsor’s eligibility and relationship to the family members being sponsored.
In special cases, a mother can also sponsor her children with approval from the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICP). Once the family members enter the UAE under an entry permit, the sponsor has 60 days to apply for their residence visas. The residence visa for parents is granted on a yearly basis, regardless of the sponsor’s visa duration.
For sponsoring parents, the sponsor must provide a deposit as a guarantee, proof of being the sole support for the parents, justification if only one parent is to be sponsored, and a minimum salary as stipulated by the immigration departments. Additionally, a medical insurance policy for parents is required.
Sponsoring stepchildren also has specific requirements, including a deposit for each stepchild and a written no-objection certificate from the biological parent. Visas for stepchildren must be renewed annually to maintain their legal status in the UAE.
It is important to note that if the sponsor’s visa is cancelled, they must also cancel the visas of their dependents. Dependents have a 6-month grace period to obtain a new residence permit in such cases.
Overall, the changes in the rules for sponsoring family visas in the UAE have made it easier for expatriates to bring their families to live with them. By meeting the salary requirements and providing the necessary documentation, sponsors can ensure a smooth process for sponsoring residence visas for their loved ones. It is advisable to stay updated on any changes in the rules by checking with the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICP) or the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) for the latest information.