Dependent Visa UAE 2025: Easy Guide to Sponsor Family in Dubai
Dependent Visa UAE 2025 – Requirements, Costs & Step-by-Step Sponsorship Guide
Meta Description: Learn how to sponsor your family with a dependent visa in UAE (2025). Updated salary requirements, documents, costs, renewal process & mistakes to avoid.
Introduction: Why Dependent Visas Matter in 2025
Dubai and the UAE have become the top choice for professionals, entrepreneurs, and expatriates from across the world. But moving alone is not enough—most families want to stay united. That’s where the Dependent Visa UAE comes in.
In 2025, the rules have become more digital, streamlined, and family-friendly, yet many expats still get confused about the exact salary requirements, documents, or approval process. Making even a small mistake can lead to rejection, delays, or extra costs.
This guide is your step-by-step manual—clear, updated, and packed with insights beyond what other websites cover. Whether you want to sponsor your spouse, children, parents, or domestic helpers, you’ll find everything you need right here.
What is a Dependent Visa in UAE?
A Dependent Visa UAE allows legal residents (expats or nationals) to bring immediate family members under their sponsorship. Once approved, dependents can:
Legally reside in the UAE
Enroll in schools or universities
Access healthcare facilities
Open bank accounts
Enjoy residency benefits (Emirates ID, SIM, utilities)
👉 In simple words, this visa ensures your family can live with you and enjoy full legal rights while you work or run a business in the UAE.
Types of Dependent Visas in UAE (2025 Updated)
| Dependent Category | Eligibility & Salary Requirement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Spouse & Children | Minimum AED 4,000/month or AED 3,000 + accommodation | Sons up to 25 if studying, unmarried daughters at any age |
| Husband (by wife sponsor) | AED 10,000/month or AED 8,000 + accommodation | Some emirates require wife’s profession to be in education, healthcare, or engineering |
| Parents | AED 20,000/month or AED 10,000 + 2-bedroom apartment | Mandatory health insurance + annual renewal |
| Children (Special Cases) | Divorced, widowed, or single mothers can sponsor | Requires additional approval |
| Domestic Helpers | AED 25,000+ per month | For maids, drivers, nannies, cooks, etc. |
Documents Required for Dependent Visa UAE
Starting a LegalTech company in Dub
Here’s a checklist that most applicants miss at least one item from (causing delays):
Attested marriage certificate (for spouse) – translated into Arabic
Attested birth certificates (for children)
Valid passports (6-month minimum validity)
Recent passport-sized photos (white background)
Sponsor’s passport + valid UAE residence visa copy
Salary certificate or labor contract
Ejari (tenancy contract) under sponsor’s name
Proof of accommodation (minimum 1-bedroom for spouse/kids, 2-bedroom for parents)
Valid health insurance policy for all dependents
Medical fitness test results (for dependents above 18 years)
Emirates ID application form
⚠️ Mistake to Avoid: Submitting documents with expired attestation or without official Arabic translation is the #1 reason for rejection.
Eligibility & Requirements for Sponsoring Family in UAE
Before applying, make sure you meet all conditions:
Minimum Salary:
AED 4,000/month or AED 3,000 + company accommodation.
Higher thresholds apply for parents and domestic helpers.
Housing Requirement:
Registered tenancy contract (Ejari).
Must match the family size (e.g., 2-bedroom for parents).
Employment/Business Status:
You must hold a valid UAE residence visa.
Certain job titles may be restricted in some emirates.
Health Insurance:
Mandatory for all dependents before visa submission.
GDRFA/ICA Approval:
Parent visas and special cases require extra approval.
Step-by-Step Dependent Visa Process in Dubai (2025)
Entry Permit Application
Apply online via GDRFA (Dubai) or ICA (other emirates).
Required whether dependents are inside or outside UAE.
Change of Status (if inside UAE)
For dependents already in UAE on a tourist visa, status must be changed.
Medical Fitness Test
Required for dependents 18+.
Includes blood test + chest X-ray.
Emirates ID Application
Submit biometrics at ICP service centers.
Health Insurance Activation
Must be valid before visa stamping.
Visa Stamping/Digital Residency
Visa sticker (old method) or digital Emirates ID (new system in most emirates).
Cost of Dependent Visa UAE (2025 Updated Fees)
| Service | Approximate Cost (AED) |
|---|---|
| Entry Permit | 500 – 1,200 |
| Medical Fitness Test | 250 – 350 |
| Emirates ID | 270 – 375 |
| Visa Stamping | 500 – 700 |
| Health Insurance | 800 – 2,500+ (varies) |
| Ejari Registration | 200 – 250 |
| Typing Centre/PRO Fees | 100 – 300 |
Pro Tip: Always budget AED 5,000–7,000 for a family of 3 to cover all costs smoothly.
Dependent Visa Renewal UAE
Start 30 days before expiry.
Collect updated documents (passport, Emirates ID, tenancy, salary proof).
Renew Emirates ID before visa stamping.
Medical test again for dependents over 18.
Submit renewal via GDRFA/ICA online or through a typing center.
⚠️ Mistake to Avoid: If your dependent stays 6+ months outside UAE, their visa gets cancelled automatically.
Taxes & Legal Considerations
✅ No income tax in UAE for dependents.
✅ 5% VAT applies to goods/services.
❌ But some nationalities (e.g., USA citizens) must file taxes abroad.
Benefits of Using PRO Services in Dubai
While you can DIY, a PRO service saves time and prevents rejections. They handle:
Ejari registration
Salary certificate attestation
Health insurance setup
Document typing & Arabic translations
GDRFA form submissions
Best for business owners & busy professionals who want a stress-free process.
Common Mistakes Applicants Make
❌ Submitting expired tenancy contracts
❌ Not translating documents into Arabic
❌ Forgetting health insurance activation before visa stamping
❌ Waiting until after visa expiry to renew (leads to fines)
❌ Assuming the same rules apply across all emirates (they differ slightly)
FAQs
Q1. Can I sponsor my child above 18?
Yes. Sons up to age 25 can be sponsored if studying full-time. Daughters can be sponsored at any age if unmarried.
Q2. How long does a dependent visa take?
Usually 2–4 weeks depending on medical tests, approvals, and emirate.
Q3. Can dependents work in UAE?
Yes, but they must convert to a work visa under their employer.
Q4. Can I sponsor stepchildren?
Yes, but you need a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the biological parent + attested documents.
Q5. What happens if I lose my job?
Dependent visas are cancelled if the sponsor’s visa is cancelled. However, you get a grace period (60–90 days) to transfer sponsorship.
Conclusion: Secure Your Family’s Future in the UAE
A Dependent Visa UAE is more than a legal requirement—it’s the foundation of a happy family life in Dubai. By meeting salary and housing requirements, preparing documents carefully, and applying via GDRFA or ICA, you can ensure a smooth process.
If you’re unsure, consider using a PRO service to save time and avoid costly mistakes. With careful planning, your loved ones can join you in the UAE and enjoy everything the country has to offer in 2025.