How to Sponsor Family Members for UAE Residence Visa
Before starting the sponsorship process, it’s important to check the basic requirements. Sponsors must be employed and possess a valid UAE residence visa themselves. Additionally, sponsors must provide necessary documents such as a valid passport copy, a recent photograph, an attested tenancy contract, and an employment contract or salary certificate.
Minimum Salary Requirements
To sponsor family members, sponsors must meet specific salary requirements set by UAE law. Typically, a minimum monthly salary of AED 4,000 (or AED 3,000 plus accommodation) is required to sponsor a spouse and children. Sponsoring parents usually requires a higher minimum salary, often around AED 20,000 per month. These financial criteria ensure that sponsors can support their dependent family members sufficiently.
Types of Family Members You Can Sponsor
Immediate Family Members
Immediate family members such as spouses and children can be easily sponsored. The sponsor must prove their relationship through attested marriage certificates for spouses and birth certificates for children. Children can generally be sponsored up to the age of 18, although male children can be sponsored up to 21 if studying, and female children can be sponsored as long as they are unmarried.
Extended Family Members
It is also possible to sponsor extended family members such as parents and siblings, although this process can be more complex. Sponsoring parents may require additional documentation and evidence, such as proof that the sponsor is their sole provider. The minimum salary requirement is typically higher as well.
Step-by-Step Sponsorship Process
Sponsoring family members for a UAE residence visa involves several detailed steps. Below is a comprehensive guide to help you through the process:
Step 1: Gather Necessary Documents
First, collect all required documents for both the sponsor and the family members. Ensure all documents are accurate and up-to-date to avoid delays.
Essential documents include:
- Passport copies of sponsor and family members
- Recent passport-sized photographs
- Attested marriage certificate (for spouse)
- Attested birth certificates (for children)
- Employment contract of the sponsor
- Salary certificate and bank statements
- Tenancy contract
- Medical insurance documents
Step 2: Submit Application
Once you have all the necessary documents, you can submit your application either through a typing center or online via the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) portal. The application includes filling in details about the sponsor and the family members and uploading scanned documents.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
It is crucial to avoid common mistakes during the application. Double-check all documentation for accuracy. Missing or incorrect information can result in application rejections or delays. Additionally, ensure all attestations are done properly by authorized entities.
Step 3: Await Approval
After submitting the application, the processing time can range from a few weeks to a couple of months. The sponsor will be notified by the GDRFA regarding the application’s status. In the meantime, ensure all follow-up requirements or additional documentation requests are promptly addressed.
Costs and Fees Associated with Sponsoring Family Members
Sponsoring family members involves various costs, including visa fees, medical examinations, and insurance. Below is a breakdown of the potential expenses involved:
| Type of Fee | Amount (AED) |
|---|---|
| Visa Application Fee | Approx. 100 – 200 |
| Medical Examination | Approx. 300 – 500 |
| Health Insurance | Varies |
| Typing Center Fees | Approx. 100 – 150 |
Renewing Family Residence Visa
Renewal Process
Renewing a family residence visa follows similar steps to the initial application process. Sponsors must submit a renewal application before the visa expiration date, typically through the GDRFA portal or typing center. Required documents for renewal include updated employment contracts, salary certificates, and valid medical insurance.
Additional Requirements for Renewal
In some cases, additional documents might be needed for renewal. For instance, you may need to provide proof of continuous employment or updated tenancy agreements. Ensure all renewal documents are notarized and attested as necessary.
conclusion
Sponsoring family members for a UAE residence visa involves careful preparation, meeting eligibility criteria, and following a detailed application process. By being aware of the requirements and potential obstacles, sponsors can navigate the system efficiently. This ensures your loved ones can join you in the UAE promptly and legally.
Часто задаваемые вопросы
Can I sponsor my family if I am on a freelancer visa in the UAE?
Sponsorship rules may differ based on visa types. It’s advisable to check the current law specific to freelancer visas.
How long does the sponsorship process typically take?
The processing time can vary but typically ranges from 2 to 8 weeks given all documents are in order.
Is there a grace period for renewing a family residence visa?
Yes, generally there is a 30-day grace period following the visa expiration for renewal.
What happens if my application gets rejected?
You can appeal the decision or reapply after rectifying any issues or missing information that led to the rejection.
Can my sponsored family members work in the UAE?
Family members can seek employment but will need a work permit from their employer to work legally within the UAE.
