Moving to the UAE with your family? The biggest question is usually the visa – how much it costs, what salary you need, and how long it takes. This guide cuts through the noise and gives you the exact steps, fees and paperwork you’ll face.
The UAE government ties family visas to your income. In most emirates you need a minimum monthly salary of AED 15,000 after tax. Some free zones accept lower salaries, but the safe bet is to aim for the national benchmark. If you’re on a contract, make sure your salary figure appears on your labor card and your last three salary slips – the immigration desk will check both.
Besides salary, you’ll need a valid residence permit for yourself, a clean criminal record from your home country, and health insurance that covers your dependents. Without these basics the whole process stops before it starts.
Typical fees range from AED 2,500 to AED 4,500 for each family member. The lower end covers the basic visa stamp, while the higher end includes medical tests, Emirates ID and insurance. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Multiply those numbers by the number of dependents and you’ll see the total cost. It’s a good idea to set aside a small buffer for unexpected admin fees.
1. Gather documents: passport copies, your residence visa, recent passport‑size photos, salary proof, and your sponsor’s Emirates ID. 2. Medical test: Book an appointment at an approved health centre. The results are usually ready within a day.
3. Apply online: Use the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA) portal or the Ministry of Human Resources & Emiratisation (MOHRE) portal, depending on where your sponsor is registered. Fill in the family visa form and upload all scanned documents.
4. Pay fees: The system will calculate the total amount. Pay with a credit card or UAE bank transfer.
5. Wait for approval: Processing time is typically 7‑14 days. You’ll get an electronic visa copy once approved.
6. Emirates ID and stamping: Take the approved visa to an Emirates ID centre for fingerprinting and ID printing. Then, visit the immigration office for the final stamp in the passport.
7. Collect passports: After stamping, you’ll receive the passports back with the family visas inside.
• Double‑check every document before you upload – a missing salary slip can add days. • Use the “approved centre” option for medical tests; it reduces re‑work. • If you have a fast‑track service through your employer, go for it – it often cuts the wait by half. • Keep a copy of all receipts; you’ll need them if you apply for visa extensions later.
Getting a UAE family visa isn’t magic, but with the right checklist you can avoid the usual headaches. Follow the steps, watch your salary threshold, and budget for the fees. In a couple of weeks you’ll have your loved ones ready to settle in the UAE alongside you.
Getting a UAE family visa means following clear rules—like minimum salary, document legalization, and insurance. The whole process can cost AED 2,500–4,500 per person and takes roughly 7–14 days. All steps, from medical tests to Emirates ID and visa stamping, are now centrally managed through approved centers or official online platforms.
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