How to Apply for Family Visa in UAE Online 2026

Quick answer

Apply for a UAE family visa online through the ICP portal (icp.gov.ae) or the GDRFA Dubai app. Your sponsor must hold a valid residence visa and meet the minimum salary threshold (AED 4,000 plus accommodation or AED 5,000 without). Once the application is approved, medical fitness tests and Emirates ID issuance complete the process.

Who can sponsor family members?

Only UAE residents on employment, golden, or investor visas can sponsor spouses, children, and in some cases parents. Your salary must meet the threshold set by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE). Domestic workers may also be sponsored under separate rules.

Documents you need in 2026

• Valid passport for each family member
• Recent passport-size photos (white background)
• Marriage certificate (attested and translated if needed)
• Birth certificates for children
• Proof of accommodation (Ejari tenancy contract or property deed)
• Salary certificate or bank statements showing minimum income
• Medical fitness results from an approved centre
• Health insurance policy covering all sponsored members

Step-by-step online application

Step 1: Create or log in to your ICP account

Visit icp.gov.ae, sign in with your UAE Pass or create an account. Sponsors in Dubai can also use the GDRFA Dubai smart app.

Step 2: Start a new visa application

Choose “Family visa” and select the correct relationship (spouse, child, parent). Enter the passport details of each family member exactly as shown.

Step 3: Upload required documents

Scan and upload clear PDFs. The system will flag any missing or unclear files. Keep file sizes under 2 MB each.

Step 4: Pay the fees

Pay online via ICP or GDRFA. The exact amount depends on the duration (1, 2, or 3 years) and whether you choose express service. Verify current fee with ICP before payment.

Step 5: Book and complete medical test

Once the application is submitted, book a medical fitness test at an approved centre (DHA in Dubai, HAAD in Abu Dhabi). Both spouses and children over 18 need the test.

Step 6: Emirates ID and visa stamping

After medical clearance, apply for the Emirates ID. The visa is then stamped in the passport or issued as a digital e-visa linked to the Emirates ID.

Common mistakes expats make

• Submitting un-attested marriage or birth certificates
• Using a tenancy contract not registered in Ejari
• Forgetting to renew the sponsor’s own visa before applying
• Choosing the wrong visa duration and paying extra later
• Skipping health insurance until the last minute

Cost breakdown (verify with ICP)

Entry permit, change of status, medical test, Emirates ID, and stamping fees vary by emirate. Add express service if you need the visa in 48 hours. Always check the latest schedule on icp.gov.ae.

Tips for a smooth process

• Book medical appointments early—slots fill quickly in peak seasons
• Use UAE Pass for faster login and document verification
• Keep digital copies of every receipt and approval
• If sponsoring parents, apply for a separate parent visa; salary thresholds are higher
• Children turning 18 must switch to a student or employment visa

Processing times in 2026

Standard processing takes 2–5 working days after medical results. Express service can reduce this to 48 hours. Abu Dhabi and Dubai centres are usually fastest; Sharjah and Ajman may take longer.

Key takeaway

Applying for a family visa online is straightforward once you have the right documents and meet the salary rule. Start with the ICP portal, double-check attestation requirements, and book medical tests early. This keeps your loved ones legally in the UAE without last-minute stress.