Family & dependant visas
UAE Family (Dependant) Residence Visa
Lets a UAE resident or citizen sponsor a spouse, children and parents to live in the country as dependants.
Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced
Under review — check current rules
Income thresholds (AED 4,000 / AED 3,000 + accommodation, and higher figures for sponsoring parents) vary by emirate and change; confirm the current sponsorship requirements on u.ae/GDRFA before relying on a figure.
Important information
Immigration rules and fees can change. This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always check the latest requirements on the official United Arab Emirates government website before you apply.
- Official name
- Residence visa for family members
- Route type
- Sponsored dependant residence visa
- Sponsor income
- Minimum salary of AED 4,000, or AED 3,000 plus accommodation
- Higher thresholds can apply, e.g. Dubai requires a higher salary to sponsor parents.
- Application window
- 60 days to apply after a dependant enters on an entry permit
Who it is for
- Resident expatriates wanting to bring a spouse, children or parents
- UAE citizens sponsoring foreign-passport-holding spouse, parents or children
Requirements
- Sponsor meets the minimum income / accommodation condition
- Proof of relationship (marriage and birth certificates, attested as required)
- Dependants aged 18+ pass a medical fitness test and apply for Emirates ID
- Sons generally sponsored up to age 25; unmarried daughters can be sponsored
What you can do
- Have family members live in the UAE as your dependants
- Enrol children in school and access residency-linked services
How to apply
The sponsor applies through GDRFA or ICP, secures an entry permit for each dependant, then completes medical, biometric and Emirates ID steps within the country. The dependant residence must be applied for within 60 days of entry.
Official sources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.
Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.