Dubai offers great work opportunities and quality of life, which is the main cause of international moving of professionals from all parts of the world. However, being far from home, and away from one’s loved ones, is not easy. The good news? The UAE has made it quite easy to sponsor your family and friends for a visit.
This blog discusses this rule including all the requirements of the whole process of Friend and Family Visa service in detail. Once you get all the information here, you will want to explore the services of international movers Dubai so you can plan for your loved ones’ visit.
Brief Overview of the Friend or Relative Visa Service
The UAE residents can sponsor friends and family for visit visas through official government platforms. The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) provides services for issuing entry permits, including those for tourism and visits. The General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) offers options for single-entry and multi-entry visit visas.
This initiative is welcomed by the UAE residents, including those from countries like Pakistan. They can now invite their loved ones for extended stays, as also highlighted in the recent UAE visa news Pakistan.
Can I Get a 90-day Visa in the UAE?
You can now apply for a 30-60-90-day visit visa under this new policy provided you meet the eligibility criteria and provide the necessary documentation. Additionally, you must also provide proof of your relationship to the UAE citizen or resident extending the invitation.
Your sponsor must also meet specific eligibility criteria, such as income thresholds, and valid residency status. It is important to note that if your sponsor is a foreign resident, they must be employed in first or second-level job categories, as classified by the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship.
Sponsoring Friends vs. Family: Key Differences
There are slight differences in the process for sponsoring a friend versus a relative, primarily due to the nature of the relationship and the supporting documentation required:
- Proof of Relationship: Essential for relatives, but not applicable for friends.
- Ease of Approval: Relatives typically get quicker approvals due to the family connection, while sponsoring friends may involve stricter verification.
- Accommodation Proof: Often mandatory for sponsoring friends, but not always required for immediate family.
Sponsoring Pre-Requisites and Process
If you are a resident wishing to invite family or friends to the UAE, make sure you fulfill all the requirements and follow the process set forth by the ministry. Let’s break those down.
Criteria for Sponsoring Visitors
The eligibility criteria required for sponsorship includes proof of accommodation and proof of finances. Ideally, the person who wants to sponsor must have:
- A residence permit for staying in any of the emirate
- A minimum monthly salary threshold
- Suitable accommodation for the person being sponsored
- Job classified as first or second level by the authorities (applicable for friends and extended family)
Necessary Documents
For filling out the application form, you need to submit the following documents of the person you are sponsoring:
- National ID Card
- A valid passport for up to 6 months
- Passport-sized photograph
- Relationship proof, (marriage certificate for spouse, and birth certificate for children)
- Financial support proof (bank statements, employment, or contract)
- Medical insurance (if applicable)
Visa Application
After collecting the documents, you can now proceed to apply for the visa. UAE residents can apply through the ICP or GDRFA websites, depending on their emirate of residence. It is recommended that you review the specific requirements and procedures on these official sites to ensure compliance with the latest regulations.
Follow these steps to apply online:
- Create an account on either the GDRFA website or app for easy application.
- Choose visa type, upload all necessary documents of the person you are sponsoring and add sponsor’s (your) information as well.
- Pay the visa fees. The payable amount depends on the duration of the visa.
- After the approval, the visa will be emailed to the one you are sponsoring.
Note: There are some requirements that must be met by the applicants for successful approval of visa.
Visa Approval Requirements for the Visitor
To qualify for visa approval, the guest must ensure the availability of the following documents:
- A valid passport for more than six months
- Round trip tickets of their tour
- Valid health insurance
Visitors must note here that they are to follow their visa deadlines. Overstaying, or failing to leave before the end date of their valid visa, will result in administrative penalties.
Conclusion
Experiencing the vibrant lifestyle of Dubai or scenic places in other emirates with friends and family is a treat. With the flexibility in sponsoring policies, you can invite your friends and family.
While you prepare accommodations or make necessary arrangements to ensure a comfortable stay during their visit, you may want to look into their potential international relocation if needed. Visit the ServiceMarket website to get multiple quotes from professional companies.
