The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is renowned for its dynamic economy and welcoming environment for expatriates. Among the various visa options available, the Free Zone Visa stands out for entrepreneurs and professionals seeking to establish or join businesses within designated free zones. A common question among Free Zone Visa holders is whether they can sponsor their family members to reside with them in the UAE. The answer is yes, but it comes with specific requirements and procedures.
Understanding the Free Zone Visa
A Free Zone Visa is a type of residence permit issued to individuals working or investing in one of the UAE’s many free zones. These zones are special economic areas that offer benefits like 100% foreign ownership, tax exemptions, and simplified business setup processes. Free Zone Visas are typically valid for two to three years and are renewable.
Eligibility for Family Sponsorship
Free Zone Visa holders can sponsor their immediate family members, including spouses and children, provided they meet certain criteria:
- Valid Residency: The sponsor must hold a valid Free Zone Visa.
- Minimum Salary: The sponsor should earn a minimum monthly salary, which generally ranges from AED 4,000 to AED 5,000, depending on the specific free zone and emirate.
- Accommodation: Proof of suitable accommodation, such as a tenancy contract or lease agreement, is required.
- Relationship Proof: For spouses, a marriage certificate attested by the relevant authorities is necessary. For children, birth certificates are required.
- Medical Fitness: Family members over the age of 18 must undergo and pass a medical fitness test at an approved health center in the UAE.
Sponsoring Spouse and Children
The process for sponsoring a spouse and children involves several steps:
- Entry Permit: Apply for an entry permit for each family member.
- Medical Test: Once in the UAE, family members over 18 must undergo a medical fitness test.
- Emirates ID: Apply for an Emirates ID for each family member.
- Residence Visa: Submit all required documents to obtain the residence visa.
It’s important to note that the sponsor has a limited time frame, typically 60 days from the family’s entry into the UAE, to complete the residence visa process.
Sponsoring Parents
Sponsoring parents is possible but comes with additional requirements:
- Higher Salary Threshold: The sponsor must earn a higher minimum salary, often around AED 20,000 or AED 19,000 with accommodation.
- Medical Insurance: Comprehensive medical insurance for the parents is mandatory.
- Proof of Sole Support: The sponsor must provide evidence that they are the sole provider for their parents and that there is no one else to care for them in their home country.
- Sponsoring Both Parents: Generally, both parents must be sponsored together unless one has passed away or there is a divorce, in which case official documents must be provided.
Sponsoring Other Family Members
While the UAE primarily allows the sponsorship of immediate family members, there are provisions under certain circumstances to sponsor other relatives, such as siblings or in-laws. These cases are evaluated individually, and additional documentation and approvals may be required.
Documentation Required
The following documents are typically required for family sponsorship:
- Sponsor’s Documents:
- Valid passport copy
- Valid Free Zone Visa copy
- Salary certificate
- Tenancy contract or accommodation proof
- Family Member’s Documents:
- Passport copies
- Passport-sized photographs
- Attested marriage certificate (for spouse)
- Attested birth certificates (for children)
- Medical fitness test results (for those over 18)
Additional documents may be required based on specific circumstances and the free zone’s regulations.
Application Process
The application process generally involves the following steps:
- Gather Documents: Collect all necessary documents for both the sponsor and the family members.
- Submit Application: Apply for the entry permit through the respective free zone authority or immigration department.
- Medical Test: Upon arrival, family members over 18 must undergo a medical fitness test.
- Emirates ID Application: Apply for Emirates ID cards for each family member.
- Residence Visa Stamping: Submit passports for visa stamping, completing the residence visa process.
Processing times can vary, but the entire process typically takes a few weeks.
Conclusion
Sponsoring family members while holding a Free Zone Visa in the UAE is certainly achievable, provided the sponsor meets the stipulated requirements. By ensuring compliance with salary thresholds, accommodation standards, and documentation, Free Zone Visa holders can successfully bring their families to live with them in the UAE.
It’s advisable to consult with the specific free zone authority or a professional agency to navigate the process efficiently and stay updated on any changes in regulations.