In recent years, the UAE has attracted a large number of people from all over the world with its high quality living environment, stable security, open international perspective and zero personal income tax policy.immigrantsand expatriate professionals. In this land of opportunity, more and more people are looking to bring their families along for the ride. In response to the trend of family-oriented migration, the UAE government has further optimized and liberalized the 2025Family reunification immigration policyThis provides easier access for spouses, children and even parents to apply for residency.

So, how to realize the rapid residence of spouse, children and parents through family reunification in 2025? This article will provide you with an in-depth analysis of the latest UAE reunification immigration policy, application requirements, process, fees and FAQs, and help you bring your family into the UAE circle of life in one step!

I. Why does the family reunification policy continue to attract attention?

In the past, residence visas in the UAE were based onEmployer-sponsored mainly, the conditions for dependent visas are tough. And with self-employment, teleworking,investment immigrationof the rise of the government, coupled with the government's desire to attract high-net-worth individuals to settle in the long term.Family reunification visa policy continues to be relaxedToday, almost all legal residence holders can apply for visas for their immediate family members.

In addition.Excellent education and medical resources, comfortable living environment, high safety indexIt is also an important reason why a large number of expatriates are willing to relocate their families.

II. Changes in the focus of the new regulations in 2025

In 2025, the UAE Ministry of Interior has introduced several optimization measures for family reunification visas as follows:

✅ No longer mandatory for male-dominated applicantsFemale residents can also apply for reunification visas for their spouses and children;
✅ Minimum income threshold lowered to Dh4,000/month, or 3,000 dirhams plus proof of accommodation;
✅ Parents can apply for permanent residence and single parents are allowed to apply;
✅ The age limit for children has been extended to 25 years (previously 18 years) and there is no age limit for unmarried daughters;
✅ IntroductionElectronic application systemThe average approval time has been reduced to5-10 working days.;
✅ May applyVisa valid for 1, 2 or 5 years, synchronized according to the main applicant's visa validity.

III. Applicable People and Basic Application Requirements

✅ Sponsorable family members:

• Spouse (legal marital relationship)

• Children under 21 (male) or unmarried daughters (no age limit)

• Parents (statement of non-dependency required)

• New: adopted children, stepchildren (with proof of legal custody)

✅ Conditions to be fulfilled by the sponsor:

• Legal UAE residency visa holders (including work visa, freelance visa, investor visa, etc.)

• Monthly income of not less than 3,000 to 4,000 dirhams

• Provide a lease contract (Ejari) or proof of property for local residence in the UAE

• Medical insurance is required

• Marriage/birth certificate to be certified by the embassy of the country of origin and translated into Arabic

IV. Full analysis of the application process (with Dubai as an example)

1. Prepared Materials

   • Copy of sponsor's passport and Emirates ID

   • Copy of spouse/children/parents' passports

   • Birth certificate, marriage certificate, declaration of support (double-certified)

   • UAE housing rental contracts, salary certificates or bank statements

   • medical insurance policy

2. Submit your application online
   Log on to the UAE Immigration Department or the Emirates Smart Visa platform (e.g. GDRFA for Dubai)

   

3. Payment of visa fees
   Approximately Dh1000-3000 per person, depending on the length of the visa.

4. Pending issuance of entry permits
   Usually approved in 3-7 business days

5. Completion of residence visa procedures after entry
   Includes medical examination, fingerprinting, health insurance activation, and receipt of Emirates ID.

V. Advantages of Family Residence Visa in UAE

🌟 High quality of lifeDubai and Abu Dhabi are highly internationalized, with comprehensive education and medical care, and are suitable for long-term family life.
🌟 Rich educational resources: Covering British and American International Schools, IB programs, and local schools in the UAE.
🌟 High Visa Flexibility: Freedom to renew and switch visa types, as well as to apply for long-term golden visas
🌟 Wide range of employment and life opportunities: Children may continue their studies or take up employment locally when they reach the age of majority.

VI. Frequently asked questions and recommendations

Q1: I am a freelancer and my income has just reached the minimum standard, can I sponsor my family?
A: Yes. Freelancers, investors, and employees can sponsor family members as long as their stay is legal and they meet the income and housing conditions.

Q2: Can I sponsor my parents to come along?
A: Yes. Proof will need to be provided that you are their primary caregiver and the annual income will usually need to be in the range ofDh20,000/month and aboveThe specific emirate may vary slightly.

Q3: How old can I extend my child's visa?
A: Maximum age 25 for boys (new regulation 2025), no age limit for daughters if unmarried.

Q4: Is the sponsored visa relevant to my visa type?
A: Yes. Dependent visas are usually valid for the same period as the main applicant, e.g. if you have a 2-year residence visa, the dependents usually have 2 years as well.

VII. Conclusion: Reunion, the warmest word in immigrant life

The UAE is gradually transforming itself from a 'job opportunity center' to a 'long-term resident friendly country'. The continued optimization of the family reunification visa policy not only gives expatriates a sense of belonging in the UAE, but also injects a human touch into this diverse country.

If you're already fighting and settling in the UAE, don't hesitate to -There's no better time than now to bring your family to you.. Warm family life and broad development stage can be both here.