How to Apply for Family Visa in Abu Dhabi Online -2026 Guide

Applying for a family visa in Abu Dhabi in 2026 has become more streamlined, digital, and rule-driven. Most steps are now handled online, but accuracy in documents and timing is critical to avoid rejection or delays.

This guide explains how to apply online, eligibility rules, required documents, costs, timelines, and new UAE family visa rules for 2026 — all in one place.

What Is a Family Visa in Abu Dhabi?

A family visa allows UAE residents to sponsor their spouse and children to live legally in the UAE. The sponsor must meet salary, accommodation, and legal documentation requirements.

Family visas are typically issued for 2 or 10 years, linked to the sponsor’s residency status.

How to Apply for Family Visa in Abu Dhabi Online (2026)

Step 1: Prepare Required Documents

Before applying online, all documents must be clear, valid, and properly attested (details below).

Step 2: Online Entry Visa (E-Visa) Application

• Family entry permit is applied online through authorized typing centers

• Once approved, E-Visa is sent by email

• You can also request a printed copy

  
  

Validity:

• Family member must enter the UAE or complete status change within 60 days

Step 3: Entry or Status Change

If family members are:

• Outside UAE → Enter using E-Visa

• Inside UAE (Visit / Tourist / Cancelled Visa) → Status change is processed without exit

Step 4: Medical Test

• Required for wife and children above 18 years

• Medical application is typed first

• Medical report usually issued next working day

Step 5: Health Insurance

Health insurance is mandatory before Emirates ID & visa stamping.

Indicative insurance costs (2026):

• Up to 17 years: from AED 515 - 3000

• Up to 35 years: from AED 595 - 5000

• Above 35 years: varies by age & coverage

Step 6: Emirates ID & Residence Visa

After medical + insurance:

• Emirates ID application

• Residence visa stamping

• Process must be completed within 60 days of entry or status change

Family Visa Requirements in Abu Dhabi (2026)

To sponsor family members, the sponsor must:

✔ Hold a valid UAE residence visa

✔ Have minimum salary of AED 4,000 (or AED 3,000 + accommodation, depending on authority)

✔ Provide registered accommodation (Ejari / tenancy contract)

✔ Have legally attested relationship documents

Required Documents for Typing & Processing Family Visa

For Sponsored Family Members

• Color passport copies (wife & children)

• One passport-size photograph (white background)

For Sponsor

• Original passport & Emirates ID

• Tenancy contract / Ejari

Relationship Documents (Mandatory)

• Marriage Certificate

  • Attested from UAE Embassy in home country

  • Attested by UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs

  • Arabic legal translation required

• Birth Certificate (Children)

  • Embassy + MOFA attestation

  • Arabic legal translation required

Employment / Income Proof

• Private sector: Labour contract

• Government / Free zone: Salary certificate

• Investor / Partner: Company trade license copy (salary certificate not required)

Documents Needed for Medical Application

• Passport copy

• E-Visa copy

• One photograph

Medical is not required for children under 18

Documents Needed for Emirates ID & Visa Stamping

• Passport & E-Visa copies (wife & children)

• Photographs (wife & children)

• Sponsor passport & Emirates ID

• Medical report (wife / 18+ children)

• Valid health insurance (wife & children)

  
  

How Much Is the Family Visa in Abu Dhabi (2026)?

Family visa cost depends on:

• Inside or outside UAE

• Number of family members

• Visa duration

• Medical & insurance costs

Estimated Total Cost Range (2026):

• AED 2,500 – AED 6,000 per person (approximate)

Final cost varies based on case and urgency.

How Many Days Does Family Visa Processing Take in Abu Dhabi?

⏱ Typical Timeline (2026):

• Entry visa approval: 3–7 working days

• Status change (inside UAE): 1–2 working days

• Medical result: 1 working day

• Emirates ID & visa stamping: 5–10 working days

✔ Total average time: 10–15 working days

What Are the New Family Visa Rules in UAE (2026)?

Key updates and enforcement trends in 2026:

✔ Stronger verification of relationship documents

✔ Mandatory Arabic legal translation

✔ Strict enforcement of 60-day completion rule

✔ Insurance required before Emirates ID

✔ Digital tracking of overstays & incomplete files

✔ Faster processing for complete, correct submissions

No major salary reduction announced, but document accuracy is more important than ever.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply for family visa fully online in Abu Dhabi?

Yes, entry visa and most steps are online, but medical and biometrics require physical visits.

Is salary certificate mandatory for investors?

No. Trade license copy is sufficient for partners or investors.

Can my family stay in UAE while visa is processing?

Yes, if status change is applied within validity period.

What happens if I miss the 60-day deadline?

Fines may apply, and re-application could be required.

Need Help Applying for Family Visa in Abu Dhabi (2026)?

Professional handling ensures:

• Correct document sequence

• No rejections

• Faster approvals

• Full compliance with 2026 rules

Abu Dhabi – UAE

Phone: +971 2 673 3099

Mobile: +971 52 884 6441

Email: info@abudhabiattestation.ae