Obtaining a family visa in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) allows you to sponsor your family members to live with you in the country. The specific requirements and procedures can change over time, so it’s essential to check with the UAE’s General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) or the nearest UAE embassy/consulate for the most up-to-date information. As of my last knowledge update in January 2022, here are the general steps to obtain a family visa in the UAE:

1. Sponsorship Eligibility:

   You can sponsor the following family members:

   – Spouse

   – Children under 18 years old

   – Unmarried daughters over 18

   – Parents

2. Eligibility Criteria:

   To be eligible for family sponsorship, you typically need to meet certain criteria, including having a minimum salary, a valid UAE residence visa, and adequate housing. Requirements can vary depending on your specific emirate.

3. Employment:

   You must be employed and have a valid employment contract with a minimum salary to sponsor your family. The specific salary requirement varies between emirates.

4. Application Form:

   You will need to fill out an application form for family sponsorship. This form is usually available online or at the GDRFA office.

5. Required Documents:

   Commonly required documents include:

   – Copy of your valid UAE residence visa

   – Passport copies of the family members you want to sponsor

   – Marriage certificate (for spouses)

   – Birth certificates (for children)

   – Housing contract or tenancy agreement

   – Proof of income (salary certificate or bank statements)

   – Medical fitness certificate for family members over 18

   – Passport-size photos of family members

6. Typing Centers:

   You may need to visit a typing center or the GDRFA office to complete the application and submit the required documents.

7. Medical Tests:

   Family members over 18 typically need to undergo a medical fitness test, including a blood test and a chest X-ray.

8. Visa Processing Fee:

   You will be required to pay a fee for processing the visa application. The fee can vary depending on the emirate.

9. Approval:

   After submitting your application and the necessary documents, the authorities will process your request. If approved, you will receive an entry permit or visa for your family members.

10. Stamping the Visa:

    Once the visa is approved, your family members can enter the UAE. They will need to visit the nearest immigration office or the GDRFA office to have their visas stamped.

11. Renewal:

    Family visas in the UAE are typically valid for one or two years, depending on the emirate. You will need to renew the visas before they expire.

Keep in mind that rules and procedures may change, so it’s crucial to check with the relevant authorities or your company’s PRO (Public Relations Officer) for the most current information and guidance.