Dubai is one of the most sought-after destinations for expatriates due to its thriving economy, modern lifestyle, and world-class infrastructure. Many professionals who move to Dubai for work choose to bring their families along, which requires obtaining a Family Visa. This guide will walk you through the key aspects of obtaining a family visa in Dubai, the dos and don'ts, and how Turbo Corporate can assist you in the process.
What Is a Family Visa in Dubai?
A Family Visa allows expatriates living in Dubai to sponsor their immediate family members, such as a spouse, children, and sometimes parents, to live with them in the UAE. Family visas are generally issued to the dependents of expatriates who meet certain salary and employment criteria.
Who Can Sponsor a Family in Dubai?
In Dubai, both male and female expatriates can sponsor their families, but the criteria slightly vary between genders. Here are the basic requirements:
Sponsorship by Men: A man can sponsor his wife and children if he earns at least AED 4,000 or AED 3,000 plus accommodation. The husband must provide legal marriage proof and birth certificates for the children.
Sponsorship by Women: A woman must earn a minimum salary of AED 10,000 or AED 8,000 plus accommodation to sponsor her husband and children. In some cases, approval from the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) is required for a woman to sponsor her family.
Children: For boys above 18 years of age, a family visa can only be renewed if the child is studying in the UAE or abroad. Girls, however, can stay under sponsorship until they are married.
Parents: Sponsoring parents requires a higher salary threshold and often requires proof that no one else can take care of them back home.
Key Steps to Apply for a Family Visa in Dubai
Obtaining a family visa involves multiple steps that must be followed carefully to avoid delays or rejections. Here's a breakdown of the process:
1. Entry Permit
Before your family arrives in Dubai, you need to apply for an entry permit. This is a temporary visa that allows them to enter the UAE.
Documents Required:
Passport copies of the sponsor and family members
Sponsor’s residency visa and Emirates ID
Salary certificate or labour contract (to prove income)
Marriage certificate attested by UAE authorities
Birth certificates of children
2. Medical Fitness Test
Once your family is in Dubai, adults (over the age of 18) must undergo a medical fitness test, which includes a chest X-ray and blood tests for infectious diseases like HIV, hepatitis, and tuberculosis. A medical fitness certificate is mandatory to proceed with the visa.
3. Emirates ID Application
Your family members need to apply for an Emirates ID, which is a legal requirement for all residents. This ID is crucial for opening bank accounts, signing leases, and more.
4. Visa Stamping
Once all steps are complete, the family visa must be stamped into their passport by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA). This is the final step in obtaining legal residency in Dubai.
Duration and Renewal of Family Visa
A family visa can be issued for 1, 2, or 3 years, depending on the sponsor’s visa. It must be renewed before it expires, or penalties may be imposed for overstaying.
Documents Required for Renewal:
Passport and Emirates ID of the family member
Medical fitness certificate (for those over 18)
Valid residency visa of the sponsor
Failure to renew the visa on time can result in fines, starting at AED 25 per day for the first six months, AED 50 per day for the next six months, and AED 100 per day after one year.
Dos and Don'ts for Obtaining a Family Visa in Dubai
Dos:
Check Salary Requirements: Ensure that your income meets the minimum requirements for sponsoring family members.
Attest Documents: All marriage and birth certificates should be attested by the UAE Embassy in your home country and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the UAE.
Submit Correct Documents: Missing or incorrect documents can delay the application or lead to rejection.
Renew on Time: Make sure to renew the visa before it expires to avoid penalties.
Don'ts:
Don’t Overstay: Staying in Dubai after your visa has expired can result in heavy fines and legal issues.
Avoid Misrepresentation: Falsifying income or other information can lead to visa rejection and legal consequences.
Don’t Delay Medical Tests: Ensure that the medical fitness test is done as soon as your family arrives to avoid delays in the visa process.
How Turbo Corporate Can Help You
At Turbo Corporate, we understand that the process of obtaining a family visa in Dubai can be overwhelming and time-consuming. Our expert consultants are here to guide you through every step of the visa process, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free experience.
Why Choose Turbo Corporate?
Expert Consultation: We provide personalized guidance tailored to your specific situation, ensuring all necessary requirements are met.
Document Handling: We help you gather, attest, and submit the correct documents, avoiding any last-minute surprises.
Efficient Processing: With our in-depth knowledge of Dubai’s visa procedures, we ensure fast and efficient processing of your family visa.
Post-Visa Support: Our services extend beyond just obtaining the visa. We assist with Emirates ID applications, medical fitness tests, and renewals to ensure your family's stay is worry-free.
Business Solutions: If you’re a business owner or entrepreneur moving to Dubai, we can also assist with business setup services, helping you establish your company in one of the world's most dynamic business hubs.
Final Thoughts
Dubai offers an exceptional quality of life for expatriates and their families. However, securing a family visa requires thorough preparation and understanding of the legal framework. With the right partner like Turbo Corporate, you can navigate the complexities of the visa process smoothly and efficiently. Whether you're moving to Dubai for business or work, let us handle your visa needs while you focus on what matters most—your family and your future in Dubai.
If you’re looking for expert help with your family visa, contact Turbo Corporate today and start your Dubai journey with confidence.
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