The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a global hub for expatriates, attracting professionals and families from all corners of the world. For those looking to bring their loved ones to live with them, the "wife visa" — more formally known as a UAE Spouse Visa or Family Visa — is a vital immigration pathway. This visa allows a male expatriate resident to sponsor his wife and children, enabling them to live in the UAE with him. This article provides a detailed breakdown of the eligibility criteria, required documents, and the application process to help you navigate this essential procedure.
Understanding the Basics: Who Can Sponsor a Spouse?
The ability to sponsor a spouse is primarily tied to the sponsor's residency status and financial capacity. The sponsor must be a legal resident of the UAE, holding a valid residency visa as an employee, investor, or partner in a company. The key eligibility criteria are:
Sponsor's Gender: The most common scenario is a male expatriate sponsoring his wife. While a female expatriate can also sponsor her husband, this is generally subject to more stringent conditions and often requires her to work in a specific field, such as medicine, engineering, or education, and meet a higher salary threshold.
Minimum Salary Requirement: The sponsor must earn a minimum monthly salary of AED 4,000, or AED 3,000 plus accommodation provided by the employer. This income must be proven through a salary certificate or a labor contract attested by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE).
Proof of Accommodation: The sponsor must provide a valid tenancy contract (Ejari in Dubai) to prove they have suitable and adequate housing for their family. This is to ensure the family's living conditions meet the government's standards.
The Step-by-Step Application Process
The application for a UAE Spouse Visa can be completed through several channels, including online portals like those of the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) and the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP), or through authorized service centers like Amer centers in Dubai. The process generally follows these stages:
Step 1: Obtain an Entry Permit
Before your spouse can travel to the UAE, you must apply for an entry permit for them. This permit allows them to enter the country to finalize the residency procedures. This application requires the sponsor's and applicant's documents and is the first official step in the process.
Step 2: Enter the UAE and Complete Medical Screening
Once the entry permit is approved, your spouse can travel to the UAE. Upon arrival, the next crucial step is for the applicant to undergo a mandatory medical fitness test. This is required for all visa applicants aged 18 and above and includes a blood test for communicable diseases such as HIV and a chest X-ray to check for tuberculosis. A positive result for either of these conditions will result in the copyright being rejected.
Step 3: Apply for an Emirates ID and Residency Visa Stamping
After passing the medical fitness test, the applicant can proceed with the Emirates ID application and the final residency visa stamping. The Emirates ID is the official identification card for all residents in the UAE, and it is mandatory for the copyright be valid. The visa will be stamped in the applicant's copyright, or more recently, it may be issued digitally and linked to their Emirates ID.
Essential Documents for the Application
Gathering the correct and attested documents is the most critical part of the application process. A single missing or incorrect document can lead to significant delays or even a visa rejection. The following is a comprehensive list of documents typically required:
For the Sponsor:
Original copyright and a copy (with at least six months of validity).
Copy of the sponsor's valid residency visa.
Original Emirates ID.
Original attested marriage certificate.
Employment contract or a salary certificate from the employer.
Copy of the tenancy contract (Ejari) and the latest utility bill (e.g., DEWA in Dubai) as proof of address.
For the Spouse (the Applicant):
Original copyright and a copy (with at least six months of validity).
copyright-sized photographs with a white background.
Copy of the entry permit.
Medical fitness test results.
The original marriage certificate, which must be attested. If the certificate is not in Arabic, it must be officially translated into Arabic and attested by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) in the UAE and the UAE embassy in the home country.
Costs and Processing Time
The cost of a UAE Spouse Visa can vary depending on the emirate, the type of visa applied for, and the services used (e.g., government-approved typing centers vs. legal advisors). The total cost typically includes fees for the entry permit, medical test, Emirates ID, and the visa stamping itself. On average, the cost for a two-year visa can range from AED 3,500 to AED 5,000.
The processing time is generally efficient. With all documents in order, the entire process can be completed in as little as 5 to 7 working days. However, delays can occur due to missing documents, a busy application period, or other administrative issues. It's a good practice to start the process well in advance to avoid any last-minute complications.
The Right to Work and Visa Renewal
It's important to note that a UAE Spouse Visa does not automatically grant the right to work. If a sponsored spouse wishes to find employment, they must obtain a separate work permit from the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE). The Spouse Visa is valid for a period of one or two years, depending on the sponsor's visa, and can be renewed as long as the sponsor's visa and financial eligibility are maintained.
In conclusion, the UAE Spouse Visa is a structured and relatively straightforward process for expatriates who wish to build a family life in the country. By understanding the key requirements, meticulously preparing the necessary documents, and following the correct procedures, families can successfully navigate the process and enjoy the many opportunities the UAE has to offer.