How Can I Renew My Child Visa in UAE 2026

Quick Answer

To renew your child’s UAE residence visa in 2026, submit the renewal online through ICP’s portal or Amer centres 30 days before expiry. Required items include your child’s current passport, Emirates ID, medical fitness, Emirates ID photo, and visa fee (AED 300–600 depending on sponsor status). Processing takes 1–3 days if all documents are correct.

Why Timely Child Visa Renewal Matters

Children sponsored by parents on UAE residence visas must hold valid visas to stay legally. An expired visa can lead to daily fines of AED 50, travel bans, and complications at schools or when leaving the country. Renewing on time protects both your child and your own residency status.

Who Can Sponsor a Child Visa

Only parents holding valid UAE residence visas can sponsor children. The sponsor must be the father or mother; grandparents and other relatives cannot sponsor unless they have legal guardianship documents issued by a UAE court. Children over 18 generally need their own visas unless they are full-time students with proof from KHDA-approved schools.

Step-by-Step: How Can I Renew My Child Visa in UAE

Step 1 – Check Expiry Date

Log into the ICP self-service portal or the ICP app using your Emirates ID. Locate your child’s visa under “Sponsored Visas.” Note the exact expiry date and set a calendar reminder 45 days in advance.

Step 2 – Book Medical Fitness Test

Book an appointment at an approved DHA or HAAD centre. Children under 15 usually need only a basic blood test and vaccination check. Cost is AED 300–500. Carry your child’s passport copy and one photo.

Step 3 – Prepare Required Documents

• Child’s valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
• Current Emirates ID (front and back copy)
• Medical fitness certificate
• Two recent passport-size photos (white background)
• Sponsor’s Emirates ID and passport copy
• Proof of relationship (birth certificate attested by UAE embassy if issued overseas)
• School letter if child is over 18

Step 4 – Submit Online or In Person

Upload documents via ICP portal or visit an Amer centre. Pay the visa renewal fee: AED 300 for children of skilled workers, AED 600 for unlimited contract holders. An additional AED 100 knowledge fee applies in most emirates. Choose “Residence Visa Renewal” under the child’s profile.

Step 5 – Emirates ID Renewal (if required)

Children aged 15 and above need a renewed Emirates ID. Book an ICA typing centre appointment, pay AED 100 for the ID, and complete biometrics. The new ID is usually ready in 3–5 working days.

Step 6 – Collect Stamped Visa

Once approved, download and print the renewed visa from the ICP portal. If you applied at Amer, collect the visa sticker within 2–3 days. Verify the new expiry date matches your records.

Common Mistakes Parents Make

• Waiting until the visa has already expired
• Missing medical test validity (must be less than 3 months old)
• Forgetting to renew the Emirates ID at the same time
• Using an un-attested birth certificate from overseas
• Not updating school records with the new visa number

2026 Fee Overview (Verify With ICP)

Standard child visa renewal: AED 300–600. Medical test: AED 300–500. Emirates ID (if needed): AED 100. Typing and service charges at Amer: AED 200–300. Total estimated cost: AED 900–1,600. Always confirm current fees on the ICP website before payment.

Tips for a Smooth Renewal

• Renew 30 days before expiry to avoid AED 50 daily fines
• Keep digital copies of all documents on your phone
• Book medical and Amer appointments early during school holidays
• If your child turns 18 during the visa period, apply for a student visa instead
• Use the ICP app for real-time status updates

Comparison: Online vs Amer Centre

Online renewal is faster for straightforward cases and costs slightly less. Amer centres are better when you need help with typing, document checking, or if you prefer face-to-face support. Both channels issue the same official visa sticker.

What If My Child’s Visa Has Expired?

You can still renew within 60 days, but you will pay a fine of AED 50 per day. After 60 days the child must exit the UAE and re-enter on a new visa, which resets the fine counter but adds travel costs and school absence. Act quickly if you notice an expiry date has passed.

Key Takeaway

Renewing your child’s UAE residence visa is straightforward when you plan ahead, book the medical test early, and double-check documents. Use the ICP portal for speed or visit an Amer centre for guidance. Staying on top of expiry dates keeps your family legal, avoids fines, and ensures uninterrupted schooling and travel.