Are you planning to bring your family to Dubai and wondering what it might cost? Understanding the family visa cost in Dubai is essential if you’re living in the UAE and looking to sponsor your loved ones.
From entry permits to Emirates ID and visa stamping, each step has its own fee, which can vary depending on your visa type and the relationship with your dependents.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about the process and expenses involved in securing a family visa in Dubai. Whether you’re sponsoring your spouse, children, or even parents, knowing the rules and recent updates will help you avoid delays or unexpected costs.
Read on to learn exactly what you can expect in terms of paperwork, processing time, and total costs for 2025.
What Is a Family Visa in Dubai?
A family visa in Dubai allows residents and expatriates to legally sponsor their immediate family members so they can live together in the UAE. The visa grants dependents access to healthcare, education, and other vital services while residing in Dubai.
The sponsor must meet specific criteria, including holding a valid UAE residence visa and earning a minimum monthly income. Generally, male residents can sponsor their spouse and children, while female residents can sponsor their children under certain conditions, such as proof of employment and salary.
Eligibility to sponsor a family member includes meeting the income threshold—AED 4,000 per month or AED 3,000 with accommodation—and ensuring adequate housing space as per UAE Municipality standards.
You can apply to sponsor:
- Spouse (husband or wife)
- Children (sons under 25, daughters if unmarried)
- Parents (under specific guidelines and deposits)
This visa helps families stay united while maintaining legal status within the country.
What Are the Latest Family Visa Costs in Dubai (2025)?
Understanding the updated family visa cost in Dubai is crucial when budgeting for your move or renewal in 2025. Costs vary based on the sponsor’s visa type, the age of the dependent, and the duration of the visa.
Family Visa Fee Breakdown:
| Visa Type & Age | Sponsor Visa Duration | Cost (AED) |
| New visa – Dependent over 18 years | 2 years | 7,032.25 |
| New visa – Dependent under 18 years | 2 years | 6,332.25 |
| Renewal – Dependent over 18 years | 2 years | 5,353.25 |
| Renewal – Dependent under 18 years | 2 years | 4,653.25 |
| New visa – Dependent over 18 years | 5 years | 5,154.25 |
| New visa – Dependent under 18 years | 5 years | 4,018.50 |
| New visa – Dependent over 18 years | 10 years | 6,054.25 |
| New visa – Dependent under 18 years | 10 years | 5,018.50 |
| Dependent visa cancellation | Any | 505.75 |
These prices include visa processing, Emirates ID, and visa stamping. However, health insurance, typing fees, and attestation may cost extra.
What Documents Do You Need for a Dubai Family Visa?
The visa process requires specific documents from both the sponsor and the dependent. Incomplete paperwork can delay approvals or lead to rejection.
1. Sponsor’s Documents
- Valid passport and residence visa copies
- Emirates ID copy
- Salary certificate or labor contract
- Ejari (tenancy contract)
2. Dependent’s Documents
- Passport copy (valid for 6+ months)
- Previous UAE visa copy (if applicable)
- Birth certificate (legalized and translated to Arabic)
- Passport-sized photo (as per ICP guidelines)
- National ID (for select nationalities)
- Marriage certificate (legalized and translated for spouse)
Additional documentation, such as a NOC letter, may be required for certain cases, like stepchildren or if the mother is the sponsor.
How Long Does It Take to Process a Family Visa in Dubai?
Processing times vary depending on how complete your application is and whether you’re using express services. On average, expect a timeframe of 5 to 10 working days for standard processing.
Average Timelines:
- Document verification and entry permit: 2 to 3 working days
- Medical test and Emirates ID: 2 to 3 working days
- Visa stamping: 1 to 4 working days
If the family member is inside the UAE, additional steps such as status adjustment may be required. Using the Amer Centers or GDRFA online portals can speed up submissions. For urgent needs, fast-track options are available at an extra cost.
Are There Additional Costs for Medical Tests and Emirates ID?
Yes, apart from the visa application fee, there are mandatory additional costs such as medical tests, Emirates ID, and health insurance. These are required by UAE law and form a critical part of the family visa process.
Breakdown of Additional Costs:
| Service | Standard Cost (AED) |
| Medical Examination | 300 – 350 |
| Emirates ID (1 year) | 170 |
| Emirates ID (2 years) | 370 |
| Typing Center Fees | 100 – 150 |
| Document Attestation | 150 – 300 (per document) |
| Health Insurance | 700 – 3,000 (per year) |
Health insurance is mandatory for all dependents and must be secured before visa stamping. The total cost varies based on the coverage selected and the age of the applicant.
Can You Renew a Family Visa in Dubai and What’s the Cost?
Yes, family visas in Dubai can be renewed once they approach their expiry date. The renewal must be initiated at least 30 days before expiration to avoid fines.
The process involves similar steps as the initial application: medical examination, Emirates ID renewal, and visa stamping. Renewal costs generally mirror the original visa fees. For example, a 2-year renewal for a dependent over 18 years typically costs around AED 5,353.25.
If your visa has already expired, a 30-day grace period is offered to complete renewal procedures without penalty. Ensure all required documents are up-to-date and valid at the time of renewal.
What Are the Rules for Family Visa Sponsorship in the UAE?
To sponsor family members in the UAE, specific rules set by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) must be followed. These requirements ensure eligibility and proper documentation.
Key Sponsorship Rules:
- Minimum salary of AED 4,000 or AED 3,000 plus accommodation
- Valid residence visa and Emirates ID of the sponsor
- Children above 18 must be unmarried to be eligible
- Sons can be sponsored until 25, daughters without an age limit (if unmarried)
- Marriage and birth certificates must be legalized and translated
- Adequate housing as per Dubai Municipality regulations
Property owners and retirement visa holders can sponsor dependents for the same duration as their visa, given all legal criteria are met.
How Can You Apply for a Family Visa in Dubai?
Applying for a family visa in Dubai is straightforward but requires organized documentation and a few essential steps.
Step-by-Step Process:
- Prepare the required documents for the sponsor and dependents
- Submit entry permit application online through GDRFA or Amer Center
- Undergo a medical examination at an approved center
- Apply for the Emirates ID using medical results and biometrics
- Visa stamping on passport through GDRFA submission
You can also apply through authorized typing centers for guidance and accuracy. For investors or golden visa holders, the application is done via the DLD Cube portal online only.
What Are Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying?
Many applications face delays or rejection due to simple yet avoidable errors. Here are the most frequent mistakes made during the family visa process.
Common Mistakes:
- Submitting incomplete or incorrect documents
- Missing attestations or Arabic translations
- Overlooking the age eligibility for children
- Applying after visa expiration without accounting for a grace period
- Not providing a valid tenancy contract or sufficient salary proof
- Incorrect passport-sized photo dimensions
- Applying without insurance coverage in place
Careful review and preparation will help you avoid delays and streamline your visa process.
Conclusion
Considering the value of reuniting with your family and enabling them to enjoy the benefits of life in Dubai, the family visa cost in Dubai is well justified. The expenses, while significant, ensure legal residency, access to essential services, and peace of mind.
Dubai’s growing support for expat families through longer visa durations and streamlined online processes has made it easier than ever to sponsor loved ones. Whether you’re applying for the first time or renewing an existing visa, understanding the process, fees, and responsibilities helps ensure a smooth journey.
Plan ahead, follow the guidelines, and enjoy the experience of having your family close in one of the world’s safest and most dynamic cities.
FAQs
Is health insurance mandatory for a family visa in Dubai?
Yes, health insurance is a legal requirement for all dependents being sponsored under a family visa in Dubai.
Can I sponsor my parents under a family visa in Dubai?
Yes, you can sponsor your parents by providing additional documents and a refundable deposit as required by GDRFA.
How much salary is needed to sponsor a family in Dubai?
You need a minimum monthly salary of AED 4,000 or AED 3,000 plus company-provided accommodation.
What happens if my family visa expires in Dubai?
You are given a 30-day grace period after expiration to renew the visa or leave the country without incurring fines.
Can I apply for a family visa while outside the UAE?
No, the applicant must be physically present in the UAE to complete the visa stamping and residency procedures.
Is there a grace period for family visa renewal in Dubai?
Yes, the UAE provides a 30-day grace period post-expiration to complete renewal without late fines.
What’s the difference between a 1-year and 2-year family visa?
The main difference is the validity duration and associated cost, with 2-year visas typically offering more value for longer stays.
