Visa Services

Family is at the heart of everything we do. For many expats living in Dubai, having parents close by makes life more complete. The good news is that you can sponsor your parents for a Dubai residence visa, but the process comes with its own set of rules, requirements, and costs. If you’ve been thinking about applying, here’s a detailed guide that walks you through every step.

What You Need as the Sponsor

Before you can even start the process, you’ll need to prepare a package of documents to prove your eligibility. Here’s what’s required from your side:

• Your valid Emirates ID
• A copy of your passport and current Dubai residence visa
• Employment contract and an attested salary certificate
• Bank statement for the last three months
• Consanguinity certificate — essentially your birth certificate, attested and translated, to confirm your relationship with your parents
• An affidavit from your consulate confirming that you are the sole supporter of your parents
• No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your employer, especially if you work in a free zone

Gathering these papers in advance can save you time and frustration later on.

What Your Parents Need

Your parents will also have to provide a set of documents:

• Their passport and a recent passport-sized photo
• Valid health insurance in the UAE
• If they’re already in Dubai on a visit visa, they’ll need to apply for a change of status before moving to a residence visa

This is where many applicants get caught off guard. The health insurance and status change can take some time, so it’s worth starting those steps early.

Step-by-Step Application Process

Once your paperwork is in order, here’s how the process typically unfolds:

1. Submit your documents: Applications are handled through typing centres or Amer Centres, which submit them on your behalf to the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in Dubai.
2. Open a sponsorship file: This is a one-time requirement to officially create a file for your parents.
3. Track your application: Centres usually provide a receipt with reference details so you can check the status.

At this stage, patience is key. Processing times vary, but once everything is in motion, you’ll receive updates through SMS or email.

Medical Fitness Test

All new residents in Dubai are required to pass a medical fitness test. Your parents will need to go through this as part of their visa approval.

• The test includes a general health screening.
• You can choose from 21 medical fitness centres across Dubai.
• Standard results take about 24–48 hours.
• If you’re pressed for time, VIP services are available: results in six hours for AED 430 or even in 30 minutes for AED 700.

Without passing this step, the residence visa cannot be issued.

Emirates ID and Residency Stamping

Once the medical test clears, the next step is securing the Emirates ID and finalising the residence permit.

• Biometric verification: Your parents will need to provide fingerprints at the ICP (Identity and Citizenship) centre.
• Processing time: Expect about one week for the Emirates ID to be approved.
• Notifications: You’ll get an SMS once the card is ready for collection.

At this point, the visa is officially granted, and your parents can legally reside in Dubai under your sponsorship.

The Costs Involved

Sponsoring parents does involve a fair bit of paperwork, and with it, several costs. Here’s a breakdown to give you a realistic picture:

Sponsorship fees

• Opening a file: AED 200
• Residence permit: AED 200
• Change of status: AED 500

Additional charges

• Knowledge fee: AED 10
• Innovation fee: AED 10
• Emirates ID: Between AED 28–100, depending on the services you choose
• Medical test: AED 250 for standard, AED 430 for six-hour VIP, AED 700 for 30-minute VIP

Keep in mind, these are the official fees, and these may vary depending on the type of services you choose.

How Long Does the Process Take?

From start to finish, if you’ve prepared all documents correctly, the process can take two to three weeks. Delays usually happen when documents are missing, incorrectly attested, or translations aren’t accepted. That’s why it’s always smart to double-check everything or get professional help if you’re unsure.

Why This Matters

Sponsoring parents in Dubai is more than just paperwork ; it’s about bringing family closer. For many expats, this means being able to share important moments with parents, ensuring they’re cared for, and giving them a chance to experience life in the UAE.

The requirements may feel strict, but they’re designed to ensure sponsors are financially stable and capable of supporting dependents. Once approved, the peace of mind of having your parents legally settled in Dubai is worth the effort.

Tips for a Smooth Process

1. Start early: Gather documents well before your parents’ visit visa expires.
2. Use trusted centres: Amer Centres are directly linked to GDRFA, which keeps the process official and reliable. You can also contact Gulf Central for an easy and fast process.
3. Stay updated: Always provide a working mobile number and email to get real-time updates.
4. Keep copies: Maintain both digital and printed copies of all submitted documents in case they’re requested again.

Final Thoughts

Sponsoring your parents for a Dubai residence visa is absolutely possible, but it requires careful planning. From meeting the income and accommodation requirements to handling the medical test and Emirates ID process, every step matters.

If you don’t want to deal with the paperwork on your own, Gulf Central can guide you through every stage of gathering documents, managing applications, and handling follow-ups. Bringing family together isn’t always simple, but worth it.