Looking to reunite with your loved ones in the UAE this year? The family visa UAE 2025 regulations have undergone some major updates that every expat needs to know. Whether you plan to bring your spouse, children, or even parents, understanding the revised rules, eligibility criteria, and official UAE visa portal process can help avoid costly delays and rejections. With the UAE government actively working to create a more inclusive and expat-friendly environment, the UAE visa landscape continues to evolve in favor of family reunification.

If you’re planning to apply UAE visa for your family, this guide will walk you through the latest updates, salary thresholds, and required documentation. It’s designed to be a helpful resource that’s easily shareable in expat communities and Facebook groups.

Who Can You Sponsor on UAE Family Visa in 2025?

As per the new updates, UAE residents—whether on an employment or investor visa—can now sponsor the following relatives:

1. Spouse (must be legally married)
   
   

2. Children (sons up to 25 years, daughters of any age if unmarried)
   
   

3. Parents (additional conditions apply)
   
   

This marks a significant change from previous years where the age limit for sons was 18. Raising the age to 25 means more flexibility for families with university-going children.

In addition to immediate family members, special approval may be granted in rare cases for stepchildren or other dependents, provided legal documents are in place.

Salary Requirement to Sponsor Family Members

One of the most critical eligibility criteria for sponsoring family in the UAE is your monthly income. The updated rule simplifies it by eliminating the profession-based distinction. Now, you only need to meet a certain income level:

1. AED 4,000 (without accommodation)
   
   

2. AED 3,000 (with company-provided accommodation)
   
   

This opens doors for a broader range of expats to sponsor loved ones without being restricted by job title or profession.

For those planning to sponsor parents, a higher minimum salary of AED 20,000 per month is typically required, along with valid reasons why no one else can support them in the home country.

These updates reflect the government's attempt to align the UAE visa types with the diverse nature of its workforce and growing expat community.

Documents Required to Apply for Family Visa UAE 2025

To apply UAE visa for your family, the documents generally required include:

1. Valid passport copies of both sponsor and dependents
   
   

2. Recent passport-sized photos (white background)
   
   

3. Medical fitness certificate (for adults over 18)
   
   

4. Marriage certificate (attested)
   
   

5. Birth certificates of children
   
   

6. Tenancy contract or Ejari
   
   

7. Salary certificate or labor contract
   
   

8. Emirates ID and visa copy of sponsor
   
   

9. Insurance policy (mandatory in most Emirates)
   
   

Depending on whether you're applying through the Dubai visa portal or another emirate’s online system, minor variations in the application process may occur.

Application Process: UAE Visa Portal vs. Dubai Visa Portal

There are two main portals for submitting your family visa application:

1. UAE visa portal (Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security - ICP): This is ideal for Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Fujairah, Umm Al Quwain, and Ras Al Khaimah.
   
   

2. Dubai Visa Portal (General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs - GDRFA Dubai): Specifically used for Dubai-based residents.
   
   

Both platforms allow residents to apply UAE visa and track their application status. The online services also cover renewals, cancellations, and e-document downloads. Those applying from Dubai can also use the Dubai visa online service via the GDRFA app or website.

Whether you need a visa in UAE or a visa for Dubai, choosing the correct portal ensures faster processing and fewer rejections.

Medical Test & Emirates ID: The Next Steps

Once the family member’s entry permit is issued, the next step is completing the mandatory medical fitness test (for individuals above 18 years), followed by biometrics for Emirates ID issuance. The final step is visa stamping in the passport.

You can do this entire process within the 60-day validity period of the entry permit. Make sure to book all appointments in advance to avoid last-minute delays.

This comprehensive approach makes the UAE visa online process smoother, especially when applying for a UAE e visa or a long-term visa for UAE.

Renewals & Overstay Fines

Family residence visas are typically valid for 2–3 years, depending on the sponsor's visa. It's essential to renew them before expiry. Overstay fines apply if renewal or cancellation is delayed:

1. AED 50 per day for each overstaying dependent
   
   

2. Additional administrative charges by immigration authorities
   
   

Always keep track of your family members’ visa expiry dates via the UAE visa portal or the GDRFA website.

Supporting Your Family Through Right UAE Visa Type

For short-term visits, a UAE tourist visa or e visa Dubai might be more appropriate. These are great for trial visits before opting for long-term family residence visas. You can switch from a tourist visa to a residence visa without exiting the country, although it may involve a status change fee.

Knowing the right UAE visa types for each scenario can save you time, money, and stress—whether you're applying for a visa Dubai or planning to bring family to the Northern Emirates.

FAQs: Family Visa UAE 2025

Q1: Can a woman sponsor her husband and children in the UAE?

 Yes, but she must meet specific income requirements—typically AED 10,000 per month—and have a suitable professional designation.

Q2: Is there a grace period after visa expiry?

Yes, there's a 30-day grace period after visa expiry during which you can renew or cancel without incurring overstay fines.

Q3: Can I sponsor more than one family member at a time?

Yes. You can sponsor your spouse, children, and parents concurrently, provided you meet the total salary requirement.

Q4: How long does the family visa process take in 2025?

On average, the process takes 2–4 weeks from application submission to visa stamping, depending on documentation accuracy and medical test clearance.

Q5: What if I change jobs—do I need to reapply?

Yes. A new visa application must be submitted under your new employment visa to continue sponsoring your dependents.

Are you planning to bring your family to the UAE this year? What challenges or questions do you have about the UAE visa or sponsorship process? Let us know in the comments—we’d love to help you navigate it!