If you are thinking about living and working in the UAE, you may have heard about the Green Visa. One big question many people ask is: Can you bring your family on a Green Visa in the UAE? The short answer is yes — and the process is now easier than before.
In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know: who you can sponsor, what the rules are, and how the process works. We’ll also break things down with a simple table for quick understanding.
What is the UAE Green Visa?
The UAE Green Visa is a special type of residency visa that gives skilled workers, freelancers, investors, and self-employed people the ability to live and work in the UAE without a company sponsor.
It offers longer validity (up to 5 years) compared to the regular work visa, and more importantly, it gives you the freedom to sponsor your close family members.
Who Can You Sponsor with a Green Visa?
With the Green Visa, you can sponsor first-degree family members, including:
- Spouse (husband or wife)
- Children (sons and daughters)
- Parents (with conditions)
There are new rules that make it even better:
| Family Member | Sponsorship Details |
| Spouse | Can be sponsored easily without needing a job or employer sponsor. |
| Sons | Can be sponsored until the age of 25 years (was 18 years before). |
| Unmarried Daughters | No age limit — they can be sponsored for as long as they stay unmarried. |
| Children of Determination (special needs) | Can be sponsored at any age. |
| Parents | Sponsorship allowed, but usually requires minimum income proof (varies by emirate). |
Main Conditions For Family Sponsorship:
Even though the Green Visa makes it simpler, there are still a few conditions you must meet:
- Valid Green Visa: You must hold a valid Green Visa when applying for family sponsorship.
- Financial Stability: You need to show proof of a stable income. Some emirates may require a minimum monthly salary (like AED 4,000–6,000).
- Medical Tests: Your family members must pass medical fitness tests at approved UAE centers.
- Emirates ID: Each family member must apply for an Emirates ID after arriving.
- Insurance: Health insurance coverage is often required for dependents.
Pro Tip: Always check the latest rules with GDRFA (General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs) or the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security.
Step-by-Step How to Sponsor Your Family?
Let’s make this simple. Here’s the general flow you’ll follow to bring your family to the UAE:
- Get an Entry Permit: Apply online for your family’s entry permit.
- Family Arrives: After getting the permit, your family can travel to the UAE.
- Medical Testing: Complete mandatory health checks.
- Apply for Emirates ID: Register your family members for Emirates ID cards.
- Visa Stamping: Complete the visa stamping on their passports.
Each emirate (Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, etc.) may have slightly different steps, but overall, it’s a smooth and organized process.
How Long Will Their Visa Be Valid?
Family members sponsored under a Green Visa usually get the same validity as your Green Visa — up to five years. This means your family members won’t need to worry about renewing their visas every year or two. It offers peace of mind and helps families settle down better.
What About Parents’ Sponsorship?
Good news: you can now also sponsor your mother, father, or both!
However, to sponsor parents:
- You must show a minimum salary (this amount can vary but is usually AED 20,000 or higher).
- You need to prove that you are the sole supporter if only one parent is alive.
Always double-check requirements with UAE authorities because rules can change depending on the emirate.
Benefits of Bringing Your Family on a Green Visa:
Bringing your loved ones on a Green Visa has many advantages:
- Longer Residency: Five years means less paperwork and lower costs.
- Greater Freedom: You don’t need a company sponsor.
- Better Quality of Life: Your family can study, work, and live peacefully in the UAE.
- Secure Future: Children of determination are also fully protected under the new rules.
Common Questions:
Q1. Can I bring my wife and children to the UAE with a Green Visa?
Yes! If you have a valid Green Visa, you can easily sponsor your wife and children to live with you in the UAE. You just need to show proof of your visa and a steady income. Once approved, they can stay with you for up to five years without trouble.
Q2. What is the age limit for sponsoring my son on a Green Visa?
You can sponsor your son until he turns 25 years old. Before, the limit was 18, so this is a big improvement. This gives young adults more time to finish college or start working.
Q3. Can I sponsor my unmarried daughter, and is there any age limit?
Yes, you can sponsor your unmarried daughter with no age limit. She can stay under your sponsorship as long as she is not married. This means she can study, work, or live in the UAE without any age pressure.
Q4. What do I need to sponsor my parents in the UAE?
To sponsor your parents, you must show proof of a minimum salary (it can vary by emirate) and prove that you are their only supporter if needed. You may also need to show that you have a suitable place for them to live.
Q5. How long will my family’s visa be valid under my Green Visa?
Their visa will usually match your Green Visa’s validity, meaning they can stay up to five years without needing yearly renewals. This makes it easy for families to plan their future without stress.
Final Thoughts
The Green Visa is a huge step forward for professionals, freelancers, and skilled workers who want to build a stable life in the UAE with their families.
With the new, flexible sponsorship rules, you can confidently plan a future where your spouse, children, and even parents can join you and enjoy the amazing opportunities the UAE offers.
Make sure you stay updated with official channels, keep all documents ready, and embrace the journey ahead!
