Child Visa
The UAE is home to a large expatriate population, with many families seeking to bring their children to live with them. The child visa in the UAE enables expatriates to sponsor their children and provide them with legal residency in the country. This visa grants children access to essential services, such as healthcare and education, and ensures their legal status within the UAE. In this guide, we will explore the process of applying for a child visa for Dubai, the required documentation, costs, and key considerations for parents.
What is a Child Visa in the UAE?
A child visa in the UAE is a type of residency visa that allows expatriate parents to sponsor their children under the age of 18. The visa is issued for 1 to 3 years, depending on the parent’s residency status, and can be renewed upon expiration. Once granted, the child will have legal residency in the UAE and will be eligible for benefits such as healthcare, schooling, and other public services.
Requirements for Child Visa in the UAE
To apply for a child visa in the UAE, the sponsoring parent must meet specific criteria, and the necessary documentation must be submitted. Here are the primary requirements for a child visa in the UAE:
- Valid Residency Visa: The sponsoring parent must hold a valid residency visa in the UAE.
- Minimum Salary Requirement: The sponsor must meet the minimum salary requirement, typically set at AED 4,000 per month (or AED 3,000 with company-provided accommodation).
- Proof of Relationship: A child’s birth certificate, attested and translated into Arabic, must be provided as proof of relationship.
- Tenancy Contract: A valid tenancy contract (Ejari) or proof of residence is required to show adequate housing for the family.
- Medical Insurance: Medical insurance coverage for the child is mandatory as per UAE regulations.
- No Objection Certificate (NOC): If the parents are divorced, a No Objection Certificate from the other parent, legalized by the relevant authorities, may be required to sponsor the child.
How to Apply for a Child Visa in the UAE
The process to apply for a child visa in the UAE is relatively straightforward and can be completed through online portals or authorized typing centers. Here are the steps to apply for a child visa:
- Submit Entry Permit Application: The parent must first apply for an entry permit for the child. This can be done online through the GDRFA (General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs) portal or at an authorized typing center.
- Medical Fitness Test: Unlike adults, children are not required to undergo a medical fitness test to obtain a residency visa.
- Emirates ID Application: Parents must apply for an Emirates ID for the child as part of the visa process. This is mandatory for all UAE residents, including children.
- Visa Stamping: Once the Emirates ID application is submitted, the child’s passport will be collected for visa stamping, finalizing the process.
Child Visa for Dubai Cost
The cost of a child visa in Dubai varies depending on the duration of the visa and associated fees. Here is a general breakdown of the costs involved:
- Entry Permit Fee:
AED 500 to AED 1,000, depending on the type of entry permit. - Emirates ID Fee:
AED 170 to AED 370, depending on the visa duration. - Visa Stamping Fee:
AED 800 to AED 1,200 for residency visa stamping. - Additional Fees:
In some cases, there may be additional charges for processing, legalizing documents, and other administrative fees.
Overall, the child visa cost in the UAE may range between AED 2,000 to AED 5,000, depending on the specifics of the case and any additional services required.
Renewing a Child Visa in the UAE
A child visa for Dubai is not permanent and must be renewed before it expires. The renewal process is similar to the initial application and involves the following steps:
- Submit the Renewal Application: The sponsor applies for a visa renewal through the GDRFA or authorized typing centers.
- Emirates ID Renewal: The child’s Emirates ID must also be renewed along with the residency visa.
- Visa Stamping: After submitting the required documents, the child’s passport will be stamped with the renewed visa.
Renewal fees are typically similar to the initial application costs. Parents are advised to begin the renewal process 30 days before the visa expiry to avoid fines.
Working on a Child Visa in the UAE
While children on a residency visa cannot work, once they reach adulthood (age 18 or older), they may apply for a work permit if they wish to seek employment. Until that time, they must remain under their parent’s sponsorship. Securing a child visa in the UAE is essential for expatriate families looking to reunite and live together in the country. By understanding the child visa requirements and following the proper application process, parents can ensure their children enjoy the benefits of living in the UAE. Whether you are applying for a child visa for Dubai for the first time or renewing an existing visa, the process is designed to be efficient, ensuring families can remain together without undue stress.
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