Dubai Outlines Four-Step Process for Expatriates Sponsoring Family Residence Visas

The Dubai government has released official guidance outlining the procedure expatriate residents must follow to sponsor family members for residency in the emirate, according to Legit News. The scheme covers spouses, children, and parents.

Under the outlined framework, both male and female residents are eligible to sponsor their spouse as well as children below the age of 25. Expatriates may also sponsor their parents, though residence visas for parents are issued on a yearly basis, regardless of the sponsor's own visa validity period.

The official process consists of four defined steps: first, applying for an entry permit to enter the UAE; second, completing an approved medical fitness test, which is mandatory for family members aged 18 years or older; third, applying for the residence visa; and fourth, submitting an application for an Emirates ID.