How to Apply for Child Visa in Dubai 2026

Quick answer

If your child is under 18 and you hold a valid UAE residence visa, you can sponsor them for a residence visa in Dubai. The process takes 1–3 weeks, costs AED 4,000–6,000 in total fees (depending on medical and Emirates ID), and is handled through the GDRFA or ICP portals.

Who can sponsor a child visa in Dubai?

Only UAE residents with a valid residence visa can sponsor their children. The sponsor must earn a minimum salary of AED 4,000 per month (or AED 3,000 plus accommodation) as confirmed by their labour contract or salary certificate. Both parents can sponsor, but only one needs to be the main sponsor.

Step-by-step: how to apply for a child visa in Dubai

1. Prepare the required documents

• Child’s valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
• Birth certificate (attested by the UAE embassy in the child’s home country and translated if needed)
• Parents’ marriage certificate (attested)
• Passport copies of both parents
• Emirates ID copy of the sponsor
• Recent passport-size photos (white background)
• Medical fitness certificate from an approved centre
• Emirates ID application form

2. Get the birth certificate attested

If the birth certificate was issued outside the UAE, it must be attested by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the issuing country, then by the UAE embassy there, and finally by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Dubai. This step can take 2–4 weeks.

3. Book a medical fitness test

Children over 18 months require a medical test. Book an appointment at an approved centre such as Al Baraha Medical Centre or any DHA-approved facility. The test checks for HIV, hepatitis B & C, tuberculosis, and leprosy. Results are usually ready within 48 hours.

4. Submit the application online

Log in to the GDRFA or ICP portal (or visit an Amer centre). Choose “Residence Visa – Family Joining” and upload all documents. Pay the fees via the portal or at the centre. The application is then sent to GDRFA for approval.

5. Complete Emirates ID and visa stamping

Once approved, you’ll receive an entry permit. Book an Emirates ID appointment at an ICP centre. The child’s visa will be stamped in the passport or issued as a digital visa linked to the Emirates ID. The whole process usually takes 5–10 working days after submission.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Forgetting to attest the birth certificate before arrival – this is the #1 reason for delays.
• Using an unapproved medical centre – results will be rejected.
• Not checking the sponsor’s salary threshold – applications are refused if income is below AED 4,000.
• Leaving the child on a tourist visa too long – overstays incur fines of AED 50 per day.

Fees you need to budget for in 2026

Entry permit: AED 300–500. Medical test: AED 300–500. Emirates ID: AED 370 (5-year validity for children under 15). Visa stamping: AED 300. Typing and service charges at Amer: AED 200–300. Total typical cost: AED 4,000–6,000 per child. Always verify current fees with GDRFA or ICP before payment.

Processing times and validity

Most applications are processed within 5–10 working days after medical results are submitted. The child visa is valid for the same period as the sponsor’s residence visa (usually 2–3 years). Renewal is possible as long as the sponsor maintains legal status.

Tips for a smooth application

• Book medical and Emirates ID appointments online in advance – walk-ins are limited.
• Use a typing centre inside an Amer centre to avoid document errors.
• Keep digital copies of every attested document on your phone.
• If both parents work, decide early who will be the sponsor to avoid duplicate applications.

Comparison: child visa vs. golden visa route

Parents with a Golden Visa can sponsor children up to age 25 (instead of 18) and the process is faster. However, the minimum investment or salary requirement is significantly higher. For most expat families, the standard residence visa route remains the most practical.

Key takeaway

Applying for a child visa in Dubai is straightforward once you have the attested documents and book the right medical appointment. Start with attestation, budget AED 4,000–6,000, and use the GDRFA or ICP portals to avoid common delays. With the right preparation, your child can join you in Dubai within three weeks.