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Getting your family reunited in the UAE is a pressing issue for the majority of expats. Wafa Documents Clearing (WDC) specializes in making the Processing of Family Visa a smooth, transparent, and stress-free process. In this article, we guide you through everything you need to know – eligibility criteria, required documents, application steps, processing duration, fees, and potential issues.

What is a Family Visa?

A UAE Family Visa allows expatriate residents to bring their immediate family members (spouse, children, sometimes parents) to reside in the UAE legally. To sponsor, the sponsor must meet certain eligibility criteria fixed by immigration and residency authorities.

Who Can Sponsor & Who Can Be Sponsored

• Sponsor (Applicant) Should have .
• Expat resident (employee-sponsered, investor, etc.) Valid UAE residence visa; minimum salary requirement; good accommodation; etc.
• Family Member Eligible to be sponsored
• Spouse: Yes
• Minor children: Yes
• Parents (in some instances) Yes, if the sponsor meets on higher salary / accommodation requirements

Key Requirements & Documents

These are the typical documents you’ll need. WDC can help you to get and verify them so nothing gets delayed.

• Valid sponsor & family member passports
• Sponsor & dependents’ passport‑size photographs
• Sponsor’s UAE residence visa
• Medical fitness certificates (for certain ages / nationalities)
• Emirates ID (typing and biometrics)
• Evidence of stay in the UAE (rental or ownership)
• Salary certificate / bank statement (showing sponsor meets minimum income)
• Educational or marriage certificates attested (if required)

Step-by-Step Process

Eligibility Check

• Check in advance if you meet minimum salary and accommodation criteria. WDC can assist you with checking eligibility.

Document Preparation & Attestation

• Collect documents as required. Make sure marriage certificates, birth certificates, etc., are attested if required. WDC offers attestation & translation facilities to facilitate compliance.

Submit Application

• Submit application on ICA (Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security) or such relevant immigration authority, through the online portal or through authorized PRO services.

Medical Fitness

• Dependants may be asked to undergo medical fitness tests.

Fingerprinting / Emirates ID Typing

• Booking for Emirates ID registration / biometrics if required.

Approval & Visa Issuance

• Once approved, visa stamping or electronic visa for dependents.

Entry & Residence Formalities

• When dependents are abroad, they arrive and go through entry stamping; also, medical insurance can be a requirement.

Timeline & Costs

• Processing Time: Usually takes a couple of days to a couple of weeks depending on the completeness of documents, nationality, and attestation requirement or not.

Charges: Visa charge, medical examination charge, Emirates ID charge, attestation charges, PRO fees (if used). WDC provides cost estimation upfront so you know.

Common Issues & How to Avoid Delays

Issue Solution

Inadequate or un-attested documents Use experts (like WDC) to review documents before submission
Salary dipping below minimum Engrossment Sponsor may need to provide additional evidence or substitute income
Wrong accommodation address / residence proof Ensure correct tenancy contract or residence proof
Emirates ID / doctor appointment delays Book in advance, follow up in advance

Why Use Wafa Documents Clearing (WDC) for Family Visa Processing

End-to-end service: Document pickup, translation, attestation, application submission, and follow-ups. (See: Visa & Government → Family Visa processing)
Skilled & Trustworthy Team: Professionals well familiar with UAE immigration and latest regulation updates.
Clear Fees & Fast Processing: No extra fees; smooth coordination with government departments.
Assistance & Communication: 24/7 assistance to handle enquiries and guide you throughout.

Conclusion

Getting a family visa in the UAE need not be so stressful. Proper preparation, properly completed and attested documents, and the services of experts like WDC can help ensure that delays are kept to a minimum and processing is made smoother. If you are willing to make an application or want to check for eligibility, send us an inquiry for a free quote.

Also You Can Visit: Processing of Family Visa