DUBAI – Residents of the United Arab Emirates, including Pakistani expatriates, can sponsor relatives and friends for short-term visits under the country’s visit visa system, with eligible visitors allowed to stay for a combined period of up to 120 days in a year.
The UAE offers both single-entry and multiple-entry visit visas with validity options of 30, 60 and 90 days. Depending on approval and compliance with immigration rules, visitors may also apply to extend their stay without leaving the country.
A single-entry visa allows one entry during its validity, while a multiple-entry permit enables travellers to enter and exit the UAE several times, making it suitable for those planning regional travel.
Salary requirements for sponsors
The General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) Dubai has linked sponsorship eligibility to the sponsor’s monthly income and the relationship with the visitor.
Residents inviting immediate family members, including spouses, parents and children, must earn at least Dh4,000 per month.
Sponsoring extended family members, such as siblings, grandparents, grandchildren, uncles, aunts and cousins, requires a minimum monthly income of Dh8,000.
Those seeking to sponsor a friend must have a monthly salary of no less than Dh15,000.
Sponsors are required to hold a valid UAE residence visa and Emirates ID. Income may be verified through official salary documents, an attested labour contract or business partnership records, where applicable.
Documents required
Applicants are required to provide copies of the sponsor’s Emirates ID and passport, along with the visitor’s passport and a recent photograph. Proof of income and accommodation must also be submitted.
Where applicable, authorities require attested documents confirming the family relationship, including marriage or birth certificates. The visitor’s passport must remain valid for at least six months from the date of application.
Visa fees
The fee for a single-entry visit visa begins at Dh200 for a 30-day permit, Dh300 for 60 days and Dh400 for a 90-day visa.
Applicants must also pay 5% VAT, a refundable security deposit of Dh1,000, a Dh20 security deposit service fee and a Dh40 collection and reimbursement fee.
How to apply
Residents holding Dubai-issued residence visas can submit applications through GDRFA Dubai’s Smart Services portal, the GDRFA mobile application, Amer centres or Customer Happiness Centres. Online applications can also be completed using UAE Pass.
Applicants must provide documents establishing their relationship with the UAE resident or citizen they intend to visit, together with information explaining the purpose of the visit.
According to GDRFA Dubai, most applications are processed within 48 hours, and approved visitors must enter the UAE within 60 days of the visa being issued.
