How to Apply for a Family Residence Visa on a Low Income
This article offers you a professional, informative, and detailed guide to attaining a Dubai family residence visa even with a low salary.

For the majority of expatriates who are employed and residing in the UAE, a Dubai family residence visa is an ultimate goal. But for those who don't earn too much, it might be out of their reach. With recent amendments, qualifying requirements, and further document demands, navigating through the process takes open information and thoughtful strategy. This article offers you a professional, informative, and detailed guide to attaining a Dubai family residence visa even with a low salary.
Understanding the Salary Threshold
The UAE government has made a decision to have a minimum pay criteria for sponsoring dependents on a residence visa. The expatriates under the current guidelines would need to have a minimum pay of AED 4,000, or AED 3,000 along with company accommodation. Exceptions and discretionary grants can be awarded according to job designations, family size, and individual conditions.
If your income is slightly less than the threshold, you can still make an application for a Dubai family residence visa on proof of financial stability, a steady source of income, and other supporting documents such as tenancy contracts, medical insurance, and school registration for the kids.
Documents Needed
To have a family residence visa in Dubai, you will require the following:
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Sponsor and family members' passport copies
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Copy of the sponsor's Emirates ID
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Testified marriage certificate (for spouse sponsorship)
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Birth certificates (for child sponsorship)
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Salary certificate and work contract
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Ejari (rental contract) in the name of the sponsor
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Passport-sized photographs of dependents
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Medical fitness test reports (for applicants above 18 years)
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Health insurance documents
These documents are instrumental to the approval of the visa and should therefore be correctly prepared to meet the law.
Step-by-Step Visa Process
Knowing the Dubai family visa process may make your application experience smoother. Here are the usual steps:
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Entry Permit Application: If your family is outside the UAE, you’ll first need to apply for an entry permit (valid for 60 days) to bring them into the country.
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Medical Fitness Test: Adult dependents will need to pass a medical examination at an authorized health center.
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Emirates ID Registration: Dependants are required to register their Emirates ID at the time of visa application.
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Visa Stamping: Once all the documents and medical reports are cleared, the visa is stamped on the passport.
You should have the visa formalities completed within 60 days of your dependents' entry into the UAE to avoid a fine.
Tips for Applicants with a Lower Salary
Most citizens believe that falling under the minimum wage will automatically exclude them, but this doesn't always happen. Here are real steps you can follow:
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Obtain Supporting Documents: Provide evidence of steady employment, long-term tenancy, school attendance, and medical cover.
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Request Employer Support: If your employer offers accommodation or family medical cover, you can include this in your application.
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Emphasize Your Status: Some professions (teachers, technicians, medical professionals) can be eligible for tolerance even if they earn lower pay.
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Look into Other Types of Visas: Other families utilize a different visa type (investor visa or dependent visa via the spouse) when the first choice isn't available.
Prompt, open, and structured action increases your probability of being approved.
Information on Costs Involved
When applying for a family residence visa, one should be well-equipped in terms of finances to the extent possible. The price of a family residence visa in Dubai generally entails:
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Fees for entry permit: AED 500 - 1,200
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Medical fitness test: AED 300 - 500 per individual
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Application for Emirates ID: AED 100 annually (depending on the duration)
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Fees for visa stamping: AED 500 - 700
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Admin and typing center fees: AED 100 - 300
Please bear in mind that charges can be different depending on the duration of stay on a visa and certain emirate rules. Although expenses can pile up, preparing finances well in advance will render the price less stressful.
The Role of Professional Assistance
The Best travel agency in Dubai can be a valuable aid in making your family visa application smooth, particularly when you are doing it for the first time. Expert agencies avoid pitfalls, process documentation, and assist with timely filing. They are also aware of changes in policy and can aid you with current procedures, particularly when you are applying with low-income or special cases.
Final Thoughts
It is attainable to get a Dubai family residence visa on low salaries with proper planning, documentation, and assistance. Equipped with knowledge of the procedure, fulfilling the minimal requirements, and considering flexible alternatives, you can reunite your family and provide a secure home for them in the UAE.
At dubaioasistravel, we have the expertise to take you and your loved ones through each step of the visa. From dealing with issues of salaries to helping you fill out the paperwork and clearances, our skilled professionals will turn the process into as easy and efficient a one as it can be.