Brief

Dubai sets minimum salaries for family, extended and friend visit visas

The latest GDRFA rules require sponsors to meet tiered income levels depending on the visitor's relationship.

By Felo News Desk · Published Tue, 06 Oct 2026 20:22:24 GMT

Dubai's General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) has outlined tiered monthly salary thresholds that residents must meet to sponsor visitors, Gulf News reported on October 4, 2026.

To sponsor a first-degree relative—parents, spouse or children—a sponsor must earn at least Dh4,000 per month. For second- or third-degree relatives such as siblings, grandparents, uncles, aunts or cousins, the minimum rises to Dh8,000. Sponsoring a friend who is not related to the sponsor requires a monthly salary of Dh15,000, the highest level under the current rules.

In addition to the salary requirement, sponsors must hold a valid UAE residence visa, possess a valid Emirates ID and provide proof of income, which can include a salary certificate, an attested labour contract or business ownership documents. Relationship proof—birth or marriage certificates—must be attested, and additional documents such as the visitor's passport, photo, accommodation proof, return ticket and health insurance may be required.

Visit visa fees start at Dh200 for 30 days, Dh300 for 60 days and Dh400 for 90 days, with possible extra charges for VAT, medical insurance, service fees and a refundable security deposit. Applications can be submitted through GDRFA's online platforms or authorised AMER Centres.

Key facts

Minimum monthly salary to sponsor a first-degree relative is Dh4,000. (gulfnews.com)
Sponsoring second- or third-degree relatives requires Dh8,000 per month. (gulfnews.com)
Sponsoring a friend requires Dh15,000 per month. (gulfnews.com)
Visit visa fees start at Dh200 for 30 days. (gulfnews.com)
Applications can be made via GDRFA online platforms or authorised AMER Centres. (gulfnews.com)