If you are new to the UAE and planning to bring your family members, you may be curious about the duration of the entire process. The application process for a family residence visa can typically be completed within a week, provided all necessary documents are in order.
The process usually takes a maximum of seven working days, contingent upon the approval of the application. In some instances, the visa application is submitted in the morning and receives approval by nightfall. Following this, you will need to undergo a medical fitness test and an Emirates ID biometric scan. Occasionally, securing an appointment for the biometric scan may cause a slight delay, but in most cases, the entire process can be smoothly completed within a week.
If you are considering bringing your family to the UAE on a visit visa initially, it is important to note that applying for a residence visa at a later stage will incur additional costs. This is because you will be required to undergo a ‘change of status’ process.
To begin with, individuals must apply for an entry permit, regardless of whether they are currently residing in the UAE or outside of it. However, if they are already present in the country on a visit visa, obtaining the entry permit, known as the ‘entry permit/inside country’, will incur additional costs. Moreover, one must also apply for a status change, which will make the process approximately Dh1,800 more expensive compared to if their family was located outside the UAE.
Now, let’s delve into a comprehensive breakdown of the cost list that you should bear in mind.
Family residence visa cost list
- File opening charge – Dh269
• Entry permit – Dh500 (if the family is outside the UAE) or Dh1,180 (if your family is already in the UAE)
• Change of status (if your family is already in the UAE) – Dh675
• Medical fitness test – Dh320
• Emirates ID – Dh170 for 1 year, Dh270 for two years, Dh370 for three years, Dh690 for five years and Dh1,198 for 10 years.
• Visa stamping – Dh500
Three factors that affect the final cost of the visa
- If family members are residing in the country or abroad.
2. If they require a medical fitness test.
3. How long is the visa valid for?
For children under the age of 18, a medical fitness test is not required. Similarly, children under the age of 15 are exempt from the Emirates ID biometric process.
Once you have determined the age and number of your family members, you can use the provided cost list to estimate the visa expenses. Additionally, it is crucial to note that if you choose to apply for the visa through a typing center or agent, an extra service fee will be applicable.
Also Read: What is the process for transferring a family visa between sponsors in the UAE?