Steps for Applying for a Family Visa in Abu Dhabi, UAE

Applying for a family visa in Abu Dhabi can feel overwhelming without clear guidance. Whether you want to bring your spouse, children, or other close relatives to live with you, understanding the process and requirements is crucial. This guide breaks down the steps to apply for a family visa in Abu Dhabi, highlighting the role of Amazon attestation services to simplify your documentation needs.

Understanding the Family Visa in Abu Dhabi

A family visa allows residents of Abu Dhabi to sponsor their immediate family members to live in the UAE. This visa is essential for expatriates who want to reunite with their loved ones while working or residing in Abu Dhabi.

Who Can Sponsor a Family Visa?

• UAE residents with a valid residency permit

• Employees with a minimum salary (usually AED 4,000 to AED 10,000 depending on the sponsor’s job and emirate)

• Business owners or investors meeting specific financial criteria

  
  

Eligible Family Members

• Spouse (husband or wife)

• Children under 18 years old (sometimes up to 21 years if studying)

• Parents (subject to income and accommodation requirements)

  
  

Preparing Your Documents with Amazon Attestation

One of the most critical parts of the family visa application is ensuring your documents are properly attested. Attestation confirms the authenticity of your documents for use in the UAE.

What is Amazon Attestation Abu Dhabi?

Amazon attestation is a trusted service in Abu Dhabi that handles the verification and legalization of documents such as marriage certificates, birth certificates, and educational certificates. Using Amazon attestation helps avoid delays caused by incorrect or incomplete paperwork.

Documents Commonly Attested

• Marriage certificate

• Birth certificates of children

• Passport copies

• Employment contract or salary certificate

• Tenancy contract or proof of accommodation

  
  

Amazon attestation services typically include document verification, translation (if needed), and stamping by relevant UAE authorities.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a Family Visa

Step 1: Check Eligibility and Salary Requirements

Before starting the application, confirm that your salary meets the minimum threshold set by Abu Dhabi immigration. This amount varies depending on the family member you want to sponsor.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

Collect all necessary documents, including:

• Passport copies of sponsor and family members

• Valid UAE residence visa of the sponsor

• Marriage certificate attested by Amazon attestation

• Birth certificates attested for children

• Salary certificate or labor contract

• Tenancy contract or proof of accommodation

  
  

Step 3: Attest Your Documents

Submit your marriage and birth certificates to Amazon attestation for verification and legalization. This step ensures your documents are accepted by the immigration department.

Step 4: Apply for Entry Permit

Once documents are ready, apply for an entry permit for your family members through the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA) or the Abu Dhabi Immigration website.

• Fill out the online application form

• Upload attested documents

• Pay the applicable fees

  
  

Step 5: Medical Testing and Emirates ID Registration

After the entry permit is approved and your family arrives in Abu Dhabi, they must undergo a medical fitness test at an authorized health center. This test screens for communicable diseases.

Following the medical test, apply for Emirates ID cards for each family member. This ID is mandatory for all residents.

Step 6: Finalize Residency Visa Stamping

Submit all documents, including medical test results and Emirates ID application, to the immigration office for residency visa stamping on the passports. This visa is usually valid for one to three years, depending on the sponsor’s visa type.

Tips for a Smooth Family Visa Application

• Start early: Document attestation and visa processing can take several weeks.

• Use professional attestation services like Amazon attestation to avoid errors.

• Keep copies of all submitted documents.

• Ensure accommodation meets requirements: The housing must be suitable for the number of family members.

• Stay updated on any changes in visa rules or salary thresholds.

  
  

Common Challenges and How to Avoid Them

• Incomplete documents: Double-check all paperwork before submission.

• Unattested certificates: Use Amazon attestation to ensure proper legalization.

• Salary below threshold: If your salary is below the required amount, consider alternative sponsorship options or wait until your income increases.

• Accommodation issues: Provide a valid tenancy contract or proof of ownership that meets space requirements.

  
  

Final Thoughts on Applying for a Family Visa in Abu Dhabi

Applying for a family visa in Abu Dhabi involves careful preparation, especially with document attestation. Using Amazon attestation services can save time and reduce stress by ensuring your documents meet all legal requirements. Follow the steps outlined here to bring your family together smoothly and enjoy your life in Abu Dhabi.