Cost for Family Visa in Abu Dhabi 2026

Quick answer

In 2026, the cost for a family visa in Abu Dhabi starts at roughly AED 5,500–AED 7,500 for a spouse and one child, covering entry permit, medical test, Emirates ID, and stamping. Add AED 2,000–AED 3,000 per extra dependent. Always verify current fees with GDRFA Abu Dhabi before paying.

Who can sponsor a family visa in Abu Dhabi?

Only residents holding valid UAE residence visas can sponsor spouses, children, and parents. Your monthly salary must be at least AED 4,000 (or AED 3,000 plus company-provided accommodation) and you need suitable housing attested by Ejari or a property title deed.

Step-by-step: how to apply for a family visa in Abu Dhabi

1. Obtain an entry permit for each dependent through GDRFA or ICP portals.
2. Book and complete a medical fitness test at an Abu Dhabi DHA-approved centre.
3. Apply for Emirates ID and pay the fee online via ICP.
4. Submit passport, photos, and attested marriage or birth certificates.
5. Pay visa stamping and insurance fees, then collect the stamped passport.

Breakdown of costs for family visa in Abu Dhabi 2026

Entry permit fees

Each entry permit costs AED 1,000 for six months. If you extend or renew later, expect an additional AED 600 per year. Verify current fee with GDRFA Abu Dhabi.

Medical test and Emirates ID

The DHA medical fitness test is AED 300 per adult and AED 250 per child. Emirates ID issuance or renewal is AED 370 for five years; children under 15 pay AED 100.

Visa stamping and insurance

Stamping costs AED 300 per visa. Private health insurance for family members is mandatory; budget AED 650–AED 1,200 per adult and AED 400–AED 700 per child annually.

Other possible charges

• Attestation of marriage or birth certificates: AED 150–AED 250 each via UAE embassy or MOFAIC.
• Typing centre service fees: AED 100–AED 200 per application.
• Knowledge fee and admin charges: AED 50–AED 100 per person.

Common mistakes expats make when paying for family visas

• Forgetting to budget for multiple children; costs multiply quickly.
• Using an unapproved medical centre and having to repeat the test.
• Skipping Ejari tenancy contract attestation before applying.
• Not checking salary certificate validity—must be issued within the last month.

Comparison: Abu Dhabi vs Dubai family visa costs

Abu Dhabi and Dubai fees are almost identical in 2026, yet Abu Dhabi sometimes charges slightly lower typing-centre rates. Dubai’s medical centres may bundle insurance, while Abu Dhabi clinics often require separate purchase. Always compare quotes from at least two centres before booking.

Practical tips to keep costs down

• Apply for a two-year rather than one-year visa to halve future renewal fees.
• Use employer bulk medical packages if your company offers them.
• Submit all documents in one visit to avoid extra typing-centre trips.
• Pay online via ICP or GDRFA portals to skip cash-handling surcharges.

Documents you must prepare

• Valid passport copies for each family member.
• Salary certificate and employment contract on company letterhead.
• Attested marriage certificate for spouse; birth certificates for children.
• Tenancy contract (Ejari) or property deed showing adequate living space.
• Passport photos with white background (4.5 × 3.5 cm).

Key takeaway

Budget AED 5,500–AED 7,500 for the first two dependents and AED 2,000–AED 3,000 for each additional child in 2026. Double-check every fee on official GDRFA and ICP portals, keep digital copies of every receipt, and start the process at least six weeks before your family’s planned arrival to avoid rushed payments or rejected applications.