Residence Visa — Dependent

The UAE Residence Visa for Dependents is a family-based sponsorship program that allows expatriate residents to bring their immediate family members to live with them in the United Arab Emirates. This visa category is designed to maintain family unity by enabling residents to sponsor their spouse, children, and, under specific conditions, parents. The sponsorship is directly linked to the primary resident's visa, meaning the dependent's residency status is contingent upon the sponsor maintaining their own valid UAE residence status. It provides dependents with the legal right to reside in the country, access healthcare, and, in many cases, pursue employment opportunities if they obtain the necessary work permits.

To qualify as a sponsor, the applicant must hold a valid UAE residence visa and meet a minimum monthly salary threshold, generally starting at AED 4,000, or AED 3,000 plus employer-provided accommodation. Higher income requirements apply for sponsoring parents. The process requires the submission of attested documents, such as marriage and birth certificates, to prove the relationship, alongside proof of adequate housing. While there are no specific visa fees for the sponsorship itself, applicants must cover associated costs for medical fitness tests, Emirates ID registration, and administrative processing. The visa is typically issued for one to three years and is renewable, provided the sponsor continues to meet the eligibility criteria.