UAE Visit Visa Rules Salary Requirements
UAE Visit Visa Rules Salary Requirements : The UAE has recently revised its visit visa regulations, introducing clear salary requirements for residents who wish to sponsor family members, relatives, or friends. The update, implemented by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP), is part of the country’s efforts to ensure economic sustainability, enhance security, and promote international visits and tourism.
These new rules define minimum monthly income thresholds for sponsors, depending on the relationship with the visitor. They ensure that residents can comfortably support their guests while meeting the UAE’s compliance and safety standards.
Salary Requirements for Sponsoring Visitors
| Visitor Type | Minimum Monthly Income Requirement |
|---|---|
| First-degree relatives (parents, siblings, children) | Dh4,000 |
| Second- and third-degree relatives | Dh8,000 |
| Friends of residents | Dh15,000 |
Documents Required for Sponsoring Visitors
To apply for a visit visa under the new rules, residents need:
- Valid UAE residency visa and Emirates ID
- Passport copies of the visitor
- Proof of monthly income (salary certificate or bank statements)
- Compliance with health and security requirements
Meeting the minimum income requirements is essential for smooth visa processing and approval.
How to Apply for a UAE Visit Visa – Step by Step (2025)
- Check Your Eligibility
- Ensure your monthly salary meets the minimum requirement based on the visitor type:
- First-degree relatives: Dh4,000
- Second- or third-degree relatives: Dh8,000
- Friends: Dh15,000
- Ensure your monthly salary meets the minimum requirement based on the visitor type:
- Prepare Required Documents
- Valid UAE residency visa
- Passport copy of the sponsor and visitor
- Salary certificate or bank statements proving income
- Emirates ID of the sponsor
- Relationship proof (birth certificate, family book, or invitation letter for friends)
- Log in to the ICP Portal or GDRFA
- Access the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) portal or your local emirate’s GDRFA website.
- Select the Visa Type
- Choose “Visit Visa – Family or Friend Sponsorship”.
- Enter the correct relationship category to apply the salary rules accurately.
- Fill Out the Application Form
- Provide visitor details (full name, passport info, nationality, contact info)
- Provide your details as the sponsor
- Upload all supporting documents
- Pay the Visa Fees
- Pay online via credit/debit card or other available options.
- Visa fees vary depending on duration (30 days, 90 days, or multi-entry).
- Submit the Application
- Review all details carefully before submission.
- Submit the application and note the reference number for tracking.
- Wait for Approval
- The processing time usually takes 3–7 business days, depending on the emirate and visa type.
- Receive the Visa
- Once approved, download the electronic visa copy.
- Share it with the visitor before travel to the UAE.
- Comply with Entry Rules
- Ensure the visitor has a valid passport, health insurance (if required), and adheres to UAE laws.
Key Points About the Updated Rules
The ICP has emphasized that these changes:
- Ensure sponsors have the financial capacity to host visitors responsibly
- Align with UAE’s broader vision to attract international talent in sectors like technology, AI, and entertainment
- Support tourism while maintaining safety and quality living standards
For first-degree relatives, the threshold is Dh4,000 per month, while second- and third-degree relatives require Dh8,000 per month. Sponsoring friends requires a higher income of Dh15,000 per month. These rules reflect a balance between economic and humanitarian considerations.
Benefits of the New Salary Requirements
- Encourages responsible hosting of visitors
- Promotes sustainable economic growth
- Simplifies the visa process with clear income thresholds
- Ensures safe and comfortable stay for visitors
According to Major General Suhail Saeed Al Khaili, Director General of ICP, the new regulations consider both financial and safety factors, enabling residents to host visitors efficiently while maintaining compliance with UAE laws.
Do’s and Don’ts
| Do’s | Don’ts |
|---|---|
| Ensure your monthly income meets the minimum threshold before sponsoring a visitor. | Do not attempt to sponsor friends or relatives if your salary is below the required limit. |
| Provide accurate and complete documentation, including salary proof, passport, and ID. | Avoid submitting fake or altered documents to meet visa requirements. |
| Check the relationship category (first-degree, second/third-degree, or friends) to know the correct income requirement. | Don’t assume all family members have the same salary criteria—rules differ based on relation. |
| Maintain a clean legal and financial record to avoid visa rejection. | Do not ignore UAE immigration rules and regulations while sponsoring visitors. |
| Apply for the visa well in advance to allow for processing time. | Avoid last-minute applications, which may lead to delays or rejection. |
| Ensure your sponsored visitors comply with health, security, and residency requirements. | Do not let your sponsored visitor violate UAE laws, as it may affect future sponsorships. |
| Keep track of visa expiry dates and renewals if applicable. | Don’t overstay the approved period; this can lead to fines or bans. |
FAQs
Q1. What is the minimum salary to sponsor first-degree relatives in the UAE?
A1. Residents must earn at least Dh4,000 per month to sponsor first-degree relatives such as parents, siblings, or children.
Q2. What are the income requirements for sponsoring second- or third-degree relatives?
A2. The sponsor must have a minimum monthly income of Dh8,000 to host second- or third-degree relatives.
Q3. Can residents sponsor friends for a visit visa?
A3. Yes, but the sponsor must earn at least Dh15,000 per month.
Q4. What documents are required to sponsor a visitor?
A4. Required documents include:
- Valid UAE residency visa and Emirates ID
- Passport copy of the visitor
- Proof of monthly income (salary certificate or bank statements)
- Compliance with health and security requirements
Q5. Why were these salary thresholds introduced?
A5. The income thresholds ensure sponsors can financially support visitors, maintain security, and support economic growth while facilitating international travel and tourism.
Q6. Do these rules apply to all UAE residents?
A6. Yes, the updated rules apply to all UAE residents who wish to sponsor family, relatives, or friends for a visit visa.
Q7. Are there any exceptions to the income requirements?
A7. Currently, the ICP has set clear minimum thresholds without exceptions. Sponsors must meet the specified income based on the visitor’s relationship.
Q8. How does a resident prove their income for visa sponsorship?
A8. Residents can submit salary certificates from their employer or recent bank statements showing monthly earnings.
Q9. Do these rules affect the duration of the visit visa?
A9. No, the rules primarily focus on eligibility based on income. Visa duration is determined separately based on UAE immigration regulations.
Q10. Where can I apply for a UAE visit visa under these rules?
A10. Visit visas can be applied for through the ICP official portal, approved typing centers, or authorized travel agencies in the UAE.
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