UAE family sponsorship laws are designed to support the unity of immediate family members, primarily spouses and children under 18. Sponsoring a sister is not straightforward and is only considered under exceptional circumstances.
Sponsorship Rules for Sisters
Unlike sponsoring a spouse or child, sponsoring a sister is not covered by standard family sponsorship rules. Sisters are considered extended family members, so regular family sponsorship does not apply.
However:
UAE immigration authorities may approve sibling sponsorship in rare, humanitarian cases. These include situations where:
- Your sister is single and has no other legal guardian.
- She faces exceptional circumstances (such as medical or personal hardship).
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for sponsoring your sister, you must meet the following requirements:
- Residency Status: Valid UAE residence visa with family sponsorship rights and at least one year validity.
- Salary Requirements: Minimum monthly income of AED 4,000–10,000, depending on the emirate, plus housing allowance or employer-provided accommodation.
- Accommodation: Valid Ejari (tenancy contract) or employer’s NOC confirming suitable living space.
- Relationship Proof: Attested birth certificates and legal documents proving your sibling relationship and her dependency status.
- Special Permission: Additional approvals from immigration authorities or an employer NOC may be required.
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Required Documents
- Passport Copies: Colored copies of both your passport and your sister’s passport, including all stamped pages.
- Emirates ID and Visa Copy: Your current Emirates ID and residence visa showing valid sponsorship status.
- Salary Certificate and Labor Contract: Official salary certificate and signed labor contract.
- Proof of Relationship: Birth certificates and family documents translated into Arabic and attested by UAE authorities.
- Accommodation Documents: Valid Ejari or tenancy contract.
- Special Permission or NOC: Any additional approvals from immigration or your employer.
Emirate-Specific Requirements
Each emirate has its own rules and procedures for sibling sponsorship:
| Emirate | Minimum Salary (AED) | Special Requirements/Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Dubai (GDRFA) | 6,000 | Pre-approval process, personal interviews, detailed justification letter required |
| Abu Dhabi (ADDA) | 5,000 | Conditional sponsorship (6–12 months), UAE Embassy attestation, mandatory health insurance |
| Sharjah | 4,500 | Family unity cases are considered if other siblings are UAE residents |
| Ajman | Varies | Fast processing (7–10 days), accepts employer guarantees |
| RAK, Fujairah, UAQ | 4,000–6,000 | Case-by-case assessment, bank statements, and employer stability confirmation required |
Visa Costs and Processing Timelines
| Item | Estimated Cost (AED) | Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| Application & Permit | 750–1,500 | 2–5 working days |
| Medical Test | 300–750 | 1–2 working days |
| Emirates ID | 370–1,070 | 2–4 working days |
| Visa Stamping | 500–1,000 | 2–4 working days |
| Total | 2,000–4,000+ | 5–15 working days |
Note: Total costs may vary and can reach AED 5,000 depending on additional requirements.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Ensure all documents are translated into Arabic by certified translators.
- Get proper attestation from the UAE Embassy in your sister’s home country.
- Submit colored copies of all documents.
- Keep documents within a 3-month validity period from issuance.
- Provide at least 6 months of consecutive bank statements showing stable income.
- Submit salary certificates on official company letterhead with a stamp.
- Write a detailed letter explaining your sister’s dependency and circumstances.
- Provide evidence that your sister has no other guardian or family support.
- Apply through authorized typing centers with a proven track record.
- Submit a complete application to avoid automatic rejection.
- Follow up regularly, but avoid excessive inquiries.
- Prepare for potential interview requests with honest, consistent answers.
- Keep backup documentation ready for any additional requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Sponsor My Sibling for a Residence Visa in the UAE?
Yes, but only in exceptional humanitarian cases where your sibling has no other guardian or faces exceptional circumstances requiring official approval.
What Is the Minimum Salary to Sponsor a Sister in the UAE?
You need a monthly salary of AED 4,000-10,000, depending on the emirate, plus accommodation allowance or employer-provided housing.
How Much Does It Cost to Sponsor a Family Member in the UAE?
Total costs range from AED 3,000 to AED 5,000, including application fees, medical tests, Emirates ID, visa stamping, and typing center charges.
