With some of the new visa categories coming into effect in September, the UAE has amended and introduced new visa categories. In September, new entry permit categories will be implemented

Previously, expatriate parents could sponsor their children up to 18 years old, however, the new rules extend that to 25 years.

Additionally, parents can sponsor daughters who are unmarried for an unlimited period, and children of determination can also obtain a residence permit regardless of their age.

As a result of these newly-updated regulations, families will be the most benefitted, allowing them to extend their stay in the country and making the UAE a more family-friendly destination.

UAE residency visa holders will receive the following benefits under the revised rule:

1. For holders of Golden Visas, the amendments allow them to sponsor their family members, including spouses and children, regardless of their age. Also, support services staff can be sponsored without a limit on the number of employees. Further, there is no limit on the duration of the stay outside the UAE in order to maintain the Golden Residence. Upon the death of the original holder of the Golden Residence, family members can remain in the UAE until the end of the permit period.

2. Under the Green Visa program, children can be sponsored from the age of 18 to 25 years old. There is no age restriction for unmarried daughters. A residence permit is granted to children of determination regardless of their age. It is also possible for Green Residence holders to sponsor their first-degree relatives. In all cases, the validity duration of the family member's residency will be the same as that of the original resident.

In order to sponsor their children for as long as they wish, visa holders must follow the steps below:

Sponsorship requirements: According to the official portal of the UAE Government, expatriate residents, including employers and employees, may sponsor their spouse and children for a UAE residence permit/visa if they are in possession of a valid residence permit/visa.

1. In the UAE, all family members over the age of 18 must undergo and pass a medical fitness test. Visas will not be granted to people who are medically unfit.

2. Upon entering the UAE under an entry permit, a resident sponsor must apply for his dependents' residence visa within 60 days.

Please note that the conditions are subject to change at any time. Please contact the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship or the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs-Dubai (GDRFA).

Also Read: Dh10,000 Minimum Salary Needed To Sponsor 5 Relatives