How to Apply for Family Visit Visa in Abu Dhabi 2026

Quick answer

Abu Dhabi residents can sponsor a family visit visa for parents, spouse, or children through the GDRFA portal or the ICP app. The visa costs AED 300 for 30 days or AED 600 for 90 days, plus AED 100 for medical fitness and AED 100 for Emirates ID. Processing normally takes 3–5 working days once all documents are uploaded.

Who can sponsor a family visit visa in Abu Dhabi?

Only UAE residents holding a valid residence visa can sponsor family members. Your salary must meet the minimum threshold set by GDRFA Abu Dhabi: AED 4,000 per month if accommodation is provided, or AED 5,000 if it is not. If you earn less, you may still qualify by showing a tenancy contract in your name and a minimum deposit of AED 60,000 in a UAE bank account.

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

Step 1 – Gather the required documents

• Valid passport of the applicant (minimum 6 months validity)
• Colour passport photo (white background, 4.5 × 3.5 cm)
• Sponsor’s Emirates ID copy and residence visa
• Tenancy contract (Ejari or ADHA tenancy contract)
• Salary certificate or bank statement for the last 3 months
• Proof of relationship (marriage certificate, birth certificate)
• Medical fitness certificate (if staying longer than 60 days)

Step 2 – Create or log in to your ICP account

Visit the ICP website or download the ICP Smart Services app. If you already have an Emirates ID, use UAE Pass for secure login. New sponsors must create an account and link their Emirates ID.

Step 3 – Fill the online application

Select “Entry Permit – Family Visit” under the Services tab. Enter the applicant’s passport details exactly as shown. Choose the 30-day or 90-day option. Upload all documents in PDF or JPG format under 2 MB each.

Step 4 – Pay the fees

Current fees are AED 300 (30 days) or AED 600 (90 days) plus a non-refundable service charge of AED 100. Payment is made by credit card inside the portal. Save the receipt.

Step 5 – Medical fitness and Emirates ID (for 90-day visas)

Once the entry permit is approved, your family member must visit an approved Abu Dhabi centre (Al Baraha Medical Fitness Centre or Al Rawdah) within 30 days of arrival. The test costs AED 100. After passing, apply for the Emirates ID (AED 100) at an ICP centre or via the ICP app.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Uploading unclear or expired documents – always double-check expiry dates.
• Forgetting to link the tenancy contract to Ejari – GDRFA will reject the application.
• Paying the wrong fee for the chosen duration – select carefully before checkout.
• Not booking the medical test slot in advance – walk-ins are no longer accepted.

Processing time and tracking

Most applications are processed within 3–5 working days. You can track status inside the ICP app under “My Applications.” If additional documents are requested, you have 10 calendar days to upload them or the file is automatically cancelled.

Extending or cancelling the visa

A 30-day visa can be extended once for another 30 days (AED 600) via the ICP app before expiry. A 90-day visa cannot be extended beyond 90 days; the visitor must exit the UAE. If plans change, cancel the unused entry permit inside the portal to release the quota slot for future applications.

Tips for a smooth family visit

• Book the medical fitness test slot online the same day the entry permit is issued.
• Keep digital copies of all receipts on your phone for airport immigration queries.
• Inform your family member to carry printed copies of the entry permit and sponsor’s Emirates ID.
• Check flight prices early – peak periods around Eid and Christmas increase demand for visit visas.

Comparison: 30-day vs 90-day family visit visa

Key takeaway

Applying for a family visit visa in Abu Dhabi is straightforward once you have the correct documents and use the official ICP channels. Start the process at least two weeks before your family’s planned arrival, pay the exact fees, and book the medical test immediately after approval to avoid last-minute stress.