Sponsoring relatives in Dubai
Sponsorship of dependents is an important issue for expats in Dubai who wish to bring their families to Dubai. In the UAE, there are specific regulations and requirements that must be met in order to effectively sponsor dependents. In this article, we will highlight the various aspects of sponsoring dependents and provide important information for those interested in bringing their family members to Dubai.
What is sponsorship of relatives?
Sponsorship of dependants refers to the process by which a resident in Dubai assumes legal responsibility for the entry and stay of their family members. This usually includes spouses, children, and in some cases other relatives such as parents or siblings. Sponsorship allows dependants to live in Dubai and gain access to certain rights and services.
Who can sponsor dependants?
In Dubai, both men and women can sponsor dependents, provided they fulfil certain criteria. These include:
- Possession of a valid work visa or residency visa.
- Sufficient income to meet the financial needs of the sponsored person.
- A suitable living environment.
Which relatives can be sponsored?
As a rule, the following dependants can be sponsored:
- Spouse
- Children up to a certain age (usually up to 18 or 21 years)
- Parents (under certain conditions)
- Siblings (if they are single and under 18 years old)
The sponsorship process
The sponsorship process can be complex and involves several steps that include the following:
- Review requirements: Make sure you have all the necessary documents and information to submit the application.
- Applying for sponsorship: Submit the required documents to the relevant authorities, such as the Dubai Land Department or the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA).
- Waiting for approval: After submitting the application, you will have to wait for approval, which may take a few days to weeks.
- Obtaining visas: Once the application is approved, sponsored relatives will receive their visas, which will allow them to enter and stay in Dubai.
Important documents for the application
In order to successfully apply for sponsorship of dependents, various documents must be submitted. These include:
- Passport copies of all sponsored dependents
- Marriage certificate or birth certificates of the children
- Proof of income (e.g. payslips, bank statements)
- Proof of residence (e.g. tenancy agreement)
Illustrative example on the topic of sponsoring relatives
Imagine Ali took a job in Dubai two years ago and is now living there on a work visa. He has left his wife Fatima and their daughter Leila behind in their home country. After realising how good life is in Dubai, Ali wants his family to join him. He researches sponsorship from relatives and finds out that he has enough income and can rent a suitable flat. After preparing all the necessary documents, Ali and Fatima submit the application and wait for approval. After a few weeks, they receive the coveted authorisation and Fatima and Leila come to Dubai. Ali now has the joy of having his family by his side.
Conclusion
Sponsoring relatives in Dubai is a crucial step for many expats who want to provide a better life for their family. It is important to know the necessary information and requirements to make the process smooth. If you want to learn more about related topics, also check out our articles on work visa process or family sponsorship rules.
