Visa Services in the UAE: Family Visa

For expatriates residing in the UAE, bringing family members to live with them is a priority. A family visa allows expatriates to sponsor their immediate family members, ensuring they can live and stay together in the UAE. Here’s a detailed guide to obtaining a family visa in the UAE.

What is a Family Visa?

A family visa is a type of residency visa that permits expatriates to sponsor their immediate family members, such as spouses, children, and sometimes parents, to live with them in the UAE. This visa is typically tied to the sponsor’s employment or residency status.

Benefits of a Family Visa

1. Family Unity

A family visa allows expatriates to live with their loved ones, providing emotional and social stability.

2. Access to Resident Benefits

Family visa holders can access various resident benefits, including healthcare, education, and other services available to UAE residents.

3. Long-Term Stay

Family visas are usually long-term, allowing family members to stay in the UAE for the duration of the sponsor’s residency.

Requirements for a Family Visa

For the Sponsor:

• Valid residency visa
• Minimum salary requirement (varies by emirate)
• Proof of accommodation
• Employment contract and salary certificate

For the Family Members:

• Valid passport with at least six months validity
• Passport-sized photographs
• Marriage certificate (for spouse)
• Birth certificates (for children)
• Medical fitness test for adults
• Educational certificates (if applicable)

Steps to Obtain a Family Visa

1. Ensure Eligibility

Verify that you meet the eligibility criteria for sponsoring family members, including the minimum salary requirement and suitable accommodation.

2. Gather Required Documents

Collect the necessary documents, including passports, photographs, certificates, and proof of relationship (e.g., marriage or birth certificates).

3. Apply for Entry Permit

Submit an application for an entry permit for each family member through the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) or an authorized typing center.

4. Medical Examination

Family members above a certain age must undergo a medical fitness test at an approved health center in the UAE.

5. Apply for Emirates ID

Apply for Emirates IDs for each family member by visiting the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA) service center.

6. Visa Stamping

Submit the completed visa application along with the required documents, including the medical fitness certificate and Emirates ID application receipt, to the GDRFA. The passports of family members will be stamped with the residency visa.

Choosing the Right Service Provider

Many companies and visa service providers specialize in processing family visas, ensuring compliance with all regulations and a smooth application process. Selecting a reputable provider can help manage the complexities involved.

Conclusion

Securing a family visa in the UAE is a structured process that allows expatriates to live with their loved ones while enjoying the benefits of UAE residency. By understanding the requirements and following the correct steps, you can successfully obtain a family visa and ensure a comfortable living experience for your family in the UAE.