# Sponsoring your family in the UAE

> UAE residents can sponsor their spouse, children and, in some cases, parents. Who you can sponsor, the salary you need, the attested documents and the steps.

- Section: Relocation › Residence visas › Family sponsorship
- Last updated: 2026-10-02
- Source: https://nuzan.ai/en/knowledge/sponsoring-your-family-uae

## Overview

A UAE resident can bring their family to live in the country by **sponsoring** their residence. The family members receive residence permits and Emirates IDs linked to the sponsor.

## Who you can sponsor

| Family member | Conditions |
| - | - |
| Wife or husband | A legally recognised marriage |
| Sons | Usually up to 25 years old |
| Unmarried daughters | No age limit |
| Children with disabilities | No age limit |
| Parents | Allowed with extra conditions, such as a higher income and suitable housing |

## Requirements

- A monthly salary of at least **AED 4,000**, or **AED 3,000 plus accommodation** provided by the employer
- Suitable housing, shown by a registered tenancy contract (Ejari in Dubai) or a title deed
- Your own valid residence and Emirates ID

## Required documents

- Passports and photos of each family member
- Marriage certificate and children's birth certificates, **attested** in the issuing country and by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs
- Salary certificate or employment contract
- Tenancy contract or title deed
- Medical fitness test for family members aged 18 and over

## Costs

Fees depend on the emirate and the length of the residence, and a refundable deposit may apply in some cases. Check the current amounts with ICP or GDRFA.

## Timeline

Once the documents are attested, the entry permit, medical test, Emirates ID and residence can usually be completed within a few weeks.

## Recommended next step

Start the attestation of your marriage and birth certificates early: it is the step that takes the longest.

## Frequently asked questions

### Can a woman sponsor her husband and children?

Yes. A female resident can sponsor her family if she meets the salary and housing requirements; some emirates ask for specific job categories, so check with the authority.

### Do family documents need to be translated?

Documents not in Arabic or English usually need a legal translation into Arabic, in addition to attestation.

Arabic version: https://nuzan.ai/ar/knowledge/sponsoring-your-family-uae