Reviewed by: Attestation & Legalization Specialist (Benchmark Team)
Last comprehensive review: February 20, 2026
Dubai continues to attract expatriates due to its strong economy, infrastructure, and family-friendly lifestyle. If you are living and working in Dubai and want your spouse, children, or parents to join you, you must apply for a family residence visa.
Although the process is structured, delays often occur due to incomplete documentation, missing attestations, lack of medical insurance, or misunderstanding eligibility requirements. This updated 2026 guide explains eligibility rules, required documents, medical insurance requirements, processing steps, estimated costs, and how to avoid common visa delays.
Quick Overview of the Family Residence Visa Process
| Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Visa Type | Residence (Family) Visa |
| Validity | Typically up to 2 years |
| Sponsor | UAE resident |
| Governing Authority | ICP & GDRFA |
| Mandatory Attestation | Marriage & Birth Certificates |
| Medical Insurance | Required for dependents |
| Processing Time | 5–10 working days (after documents are ready) |
What Is a Family Residence Visa in Dubai?
A family residence visa allows a UAE resident to sponsor immediate family members so they can legally live in the country. Eligible dependents typically include:
- Spouse
- Children
- Parents (under specific conditions)
The visa validity generally matches the sponsor’s residence visa and must be renewed before expiry.
Family Visa Eligibility Requirements in Dubai
Minimum Salary Requirement for Sponsorship (2026)
According to current immigration guidelines:
- AED 4,000 per month, or
- AED 3,000 per month with company-provided accommodation
Higher income thresholds and additional documentation typically apply when sponsoring parents.
Other Mandatory Conditions for Visa Approval
To sponsor dependents, the applicant must:
- Hold a valid UAE residence visa
- Provide a registered Ejari tenancy contract
- Submit legally verified proof of relationship
- Ensure documents meet immigration verification standards
- Maintain compliant medical insurance coverage
Failure to meet these requirements may result in delays or rejection.
Is Medical Insurance Mandatory for a Family Residence Visa?
Medical insurance is generally mandatory for dependents applying for residence in Dubai. Immigration authorities may require proof of valid UAE-compliant health coverage before final visa issuance or renewal.
Who Must Have Medical Insurance for a Family Visa?
Medical insurance is typically required for:
- Spouse under sponsorship
- Children
- Sponsored parents (mandatory in most cases)
Employer-provided insurance may cover dependents in some cases. If not included, individual health insurance must be arranged before visa approval.
What Types of Health Insurance Are Accepted?
Sponsors may obtain:
- Employer-provided dependent coverage
- Individual UAE-compliant health insurance plans
- Family health insurance packages
- Basic mandatory coverage plans approved by local health authorities
Insurance must meet regulatory standards set by UAE health authorities. Lack of valid coverage may delay visa issuance or renewal.
Why Marriage & Birth Certificate Attestation Is Required
Attestation is one of the most important legal steps when applying for a family visa, particularly when documents are issued outside the UAE.
Why Attestation Is Mandatory for Visa Processing
Marriage and birth certificate attestation confirms:
- The authenticity of the document
- The legal relationship between sponsor and dependent
- Acceptance by UAE immigration authorities
Without properly attested documents:
- Visa applications may be delayed
- Authorities may request resubmission
- Applications may be rejected
For spouse sponsorship, a properly legalized marriage certificate is required. Learn more about the detailed process for marriage certificate attestation in Dubai.
For child sponsorship, birth certificate legalization is necessary. See our complete guide on birth certificate attestation in the UAE.
Final document validation inside the UAE is completed through MOFA attestation in Dubai.
Documents Required for Family Visa Processing
Sponsor’s Documents
Prepare the sponsor’s identification and employment documentation before submitting the application.
- Passport (original & copy)
- Emirates ID
- Valid residence visa
- Salary certificate or employment contract
- Ejari tenancy contract
Dependent’s Documents
Ensure all dependent documents are valid and consistent with the sponsor’s records.
- Passport copies
- Passport-size photographs
- Entry permit (if applicable)
- Valid health insurance (where required)
Attested Certificates Required for Approval
Foreign-issued civil documents must complete the full legalization sequence before submission.
- Marriage certificate (for spouse)
- Birth certificates (for children)
Step-by-Step Family Visa Application Process
Step 1 – Document Attestation
Before applying, ensure all foreign-issued documents follow the correct legalization chain. This is a critical prerequisite. The Standard sequence:
- Home country Ministry of Foreign Affairs (or relevant authority)
- UAE Embassy in the issuing country
- UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFAIC)
Step 2 – Medical Fitness Examination
After entry permit approval, dependents aged 18 and above must complete a medical fitness test at an approved medical center. The examination typically includes:
- Blood test
- Chest X-ray
Step 3 – Emirates ID Registration
Following medical clearance, biometric registration must be completed.
Applications are submitted through:
- ICP online portal
- Authorized typing centers
Biometric capture is mandatory.
Step 4 – Residence Visa Approval & Digital Issuance
After approval, the residence status is activated electronically.
- The residence visa is issued digitally
- Traditional passport visa stamping is generally no longer required
- Emirates ID serves as official proof of residency
- Visa details are stored electronically in the ICP/GDRFA system
The UAE now operates a fully digital residence visa system.
Cost of a Family Residence Visa in 2026
| Service | Approximate Cost |
|---|---|
| Entry Permit | AED 1,100 – 1,200 |
| Medical Test | AED 320 (normal) / AED 740 (urgent) |
| Emirates ID Application & Issuance Fee | AED 370 – 470 (aligned with visa validity) |
| Health Insurance | Varies by provider and coverage |
| Visa Issuance | AED 500 – 700 |
| Certificate Attestation | Varies by issuing country |
Costs may vary depending on nationality, urgency, and processing category.
Processing Time for Family Visa Approval
Typical timeline (after documents are ready):
- Entry permit: 1–2 working days
- Medical & Emirates ID: 2–3 working days
- Final approval: 2–5 working days
- Total average time: 5–10 working days
Incomplete documentation, missing insurance, or improper attestation are common delay factors.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum salary required to sponsor family?
In most cases, AED 4,000 per month or AED 3,000 with accommodation.
Is medical insurance mandatory?
Yes. Valid UAE-compliant health insurance is generally required for dependents.
Is marriage certificate attestation required?
Yes, if issued outside the UAE.
Is visa stamping still required in Dubai?
No. Residence visas are issued digitally and linked to the Emirates ID.
Need Help With the Next Step?
If you need assistance confirming the correct attestation process or preparing required documents for your family visa application, contact Benchmark Attestation.
- UAE Office: +971 4 396 1284
- WhatsApp: +971 52 888 4714