Family visa cost in Dubai: A founder’s practical guide

For entrepreneurs establishing their presence in the UAE, relocating their families is often a top priority. Understanding the full family visa cost in Dubai and the step-by-step application journey allows founders to plan both financially and operationally with confidence.

Whether you are already running a company or exploring business setup in Dubai, knowing the true cost structure of sponsoring dependents ensures there are no surprises along the way.

Who can sponsor a family in Dubai

Any UAE resident with a valid residency visa can sponsor immediate family members if they meet the required income threshold, typically AED 4,000 per month or AED 3,000 with accommodation. Profession is no longer the determining factor; income is.

Eligible dependents generally include:

• Spouse
• Unmarried daughters of any age
• Sons up to 18 years old, or 21 if enrolled in full-time education
• Parents (subject to additional income and approval conditions)

Female residents earning AED 8,000 or AED 10,000 with accommodation may also sponsor their families if they meet regulatory requirements.

Sponsors must complete the residency formalities within 60 days of the dependent’s arrival in the UAE. Visa validity is usually aligned with the sponsor’s residency duration.

Mandatory documents that affect your budget

Family visa applications are documentation-intensive. Each required document carries either a direct or indirect cost that founders must factor into their total budget.

Core requirements include:

• Valid Emirates ID
• Active UAE residency visa
• Salary certificate
• Ejari or registered tenancy contract
• MOFA-attested marriage certificate
• MOFA-attested birth certificates for children
• Medical fitness test for adult dependents

Attestation and translation fees are often underestimated. Marriage and birth certificates must be properly attested and translated into Arabic where required. Errors or incomplete documentation can delay the process and increase costs.

The core visa cost structure

The family visa cost in Dubai is typically divided into three core components.

First, the entry permit, which allows the dependent to enter the UAE and begin the residency process.

Second, the medical fitness test and Emirates ID processing, which are mandatory for adult dependents.

Third, the dependent visa stamping, which finalises residency status.

While exact figures vary depending on visa duration and whether the applicant is inside or outside the UAE, founders should expect these three stages to form the base cost of the application.

Hidden and add-on costs founders often miss

Beyond the main visa fees, several additional expenses can significantly impact the total cost:

• Document attestation fees
• Certified translation costs
• Ejari registration
• Medical insurance (mandatory for residency)
• Courier and service charges
• Optional VIP medical services

These items are essential for compliance and smooth processing. Underestimating them can lead to budget shortfalls.

Processing timelines and cost predictability

Residence visa processing generally takes between three and ten working days, provided all documentation is complete. Applications initiated from outside the UAE may take slightly longer due to entry permit issuance.

Working within a structured ecosystem helps founders avoid fragmented payments and unclear timelines. Instead of navigating multiple service channels independently, consolidated visa support offers greater predictability.

How Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone simplifies the journey

For entrepreneurs registered with Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone, the family visa journey becomes significantly more streamlined. The Free Zone supports investor and partner visas while also assisting with the full dependent visa lifecycle from documentation review to residency activation.

Founder-centric tools further enhance the experience. The Name Check Facility allows instant verification of company names. The Cost Calculator provides transparent estimates for setup and operational expenses. The Approved Activities Directory offers clarity on licensing categories. Through Beyond Hub, founders gain access to value-added services including corporate tax registration, VAT registration, VIP medical coordination, bookkeeping, and more.

By combining digital tools, transparent pricing, and hands-on visa coordination, Dubai South Business Hub Free Zone provides a predictable and founder-friendly environment for securing residency for both business owners and their families.