UAE visa rules and minimum requirements to sponsor family & friends

The UAE has recently updated its visa and sponsorship rules, introducing new entry categories and revising minimum income thresholds for residents who wish to sponsor family, relatives, or friends. These changes are important for expatriates, businesses, and anyone planning to bring dependents into the country.

This guide breaks down the latest rules, explains the income requirements, and highlights the documents you’ll need to prepare.

Key Highlights at a Glance

  • The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) announced new visit visa categories (including AI, events, cruise tourism, and leisure vessels.) and several rule amendments on September 29, 2025.
  • New minimum income thresholds now apply for residents who sponsor visitors, relatives, or friends under entry permits.
  • Passport outer cover page is now mandatory for all new entry permit applications.

  • Green and Golden Visas remain available, with expanded eligibility criteria.

1. New Visit Visa Categories

The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) introduced four new visit visa types, focusing on strategic industries such as technology, events, and tourism. This move aims to attract talent and investment while diversifying the economy.

Alongside these, new humanitarian residency permits have also been announced, giving more flexibility to individuals in special cases.

2. Updated Minimum Income Rules for Sponsors

If you are planning to sponsor someone, here are the revised thresholds:

  • AED 4,000/month – to sponsor immediate family (spouse, children, first-degree relatives).

  • AED 8,000/month – to sponsor second or third-degree relatives.

  • AED 15,000/month – to sponsor a friend.

Authorities might require proof of income, such as salary slips and recent bank statements, before granting approvals.

3. Family Residence Visa Basics

The baseline requirement for sponsoring your spouse and children remains:

  • AED 4,000 monthly income, or

  • AED 3,000 plus employer-provided accommodation.

Some categories, such as parents, may require higher income thresholds and additional documentation depending on the emirate. Always check the rules in your place of residence before applying.

4. Sponsoring Parents: Emirate-Specific Rules

Sponsoring parents often involves stricter conditions. Certain emirates require higher salaries and proof of suitable housing. Dubai, for example, has specific rules that differ from Abu Dhabi or Sharjah.

Applicants should confirm the criteria with their emirate’s immigration authority.

5. Passport Outer Cover Page Requirement

A new procedural update requires applicants to upload the outer cover page of the passport with every entry permit application. Applications without this page may be rejected by Amer centres or travel agencies, so make sure it’s included in your documents.

6. Green and Golden Visa Pathways

  • Green Visa: Designed for freelancers, skilled professionals, and investors. Applicants usually need to show strong qualifications or an annual income of at least AED 360,000.

  • Golden Visa: Offers 10-year residency for investors, entrepreneurs, highly skilled professionals, and other select categories. Eligibility has been gradually expanding, so it’s best to review the latest criteria on the official government portal.

What This Means for Residents and Businesses

  • If you want to sponsor someone, determine whether you need a visit visa or residence visa—requirements differ.
  • Always prepare complete financial documents: salary slips, bank statements, and proof of housing.
  • HR teams and agencies should update checklists to reflect the passport cover page requirement.
  • For freelancers, entrepreneurs, or long-term investors, Green and Golden visas remain strong options.

Checklist Before You Apply

  1. Identify the visa type (visit or residence).
  2. Gather documents: passport copy, outer cover page, photos.
  3. Prepare proof of income: salary slips, bank statements, employer letter.
  4. Provide accommodation proof: tenancy contract or employer housing letter.
  5. For Green/Golden visas: add qualifications, freelance permits, or investment evidence.

Important Reminders

Visa rules can change and may vary by emirate. Always confirm with ICP, GDRFA Dubai, or the official UAE portal before applying.

Avoid third-party shortcuts or offers of “lifetime visas.” Only use official channels to prevent fraud.

Ready to Apply or Need Guidance?

At Mindbridge Business Consultants, we help individuals and businesses navigate UAE visa rules with confidence. Whether you’re sponsoring family, applying for a Green or Golden visa, or managing corporate visas, our team can guide you through every step.

👉 Book a free consultation today and get a tailored checklist for your case.

Get Free Consultation!