UAE Family Visa for Bangladeshi Nationals

The UAE Family Visa allows foreign nationals, including Bangladeshi citizens, to sponsor their family members to live in the United Arab Emirates. This visa is designed to facilitate family reunification for expatriates who are legally residing and working in the UAE.

Key Features of the UAE Family Visa

1. Eligibility Criteria:

   • Sponsor Requirements: The sponsor must hold a valid UAE residence visa and have a stable income that meets the UAE government’s minimum salary requirements.
   • Eligible Family Members: The family visa can be issued for immediate family members, including:
     • Spouse
     • Children (biological and legally adopted)
     • Parents (under certain conditions)
     • Siblings (in specific cases)

2. Documents Required:

   • Visa Application Form: A completed family visa application form.
   • Valid Passport: The passport of both the sponsor and the family member(s) being sponsored, with at least six months of validity.
   • Passport-Sized Photos: Recent photographs of the family members applying for the visa, adhering to UAE photo specifications.
   • Marriage Certificate: For spouse sponsorship, an attested marriage certificate is required.
   • Birth Certificates: For children, attested birth certificates are needed to prove the relationship.
   • Proof of Employment: The sponsor must provide proof of employment, such as an employment contract or salary certificate.
   • Tenancy Contract: A copy of the tenancy contract or proof of accommodation in the UAE may be required.
   • Medical Insurance: Valid health insurance coverage for the family members being sponsored.

3. Application Process:

   • Step 1: Gather Documentation: Prepare all required documents as specified by the UAE immigration authorities.
   • Step 2: Submit Application: The sponsor submits the application to the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in the relevant emirate or through an authorized service center.
   • Step 3: Pay Visa Fee: The visa fee varies based on the number of family members and processing speed, typically ranging from AED 100 to AED 1,000.
   • Step 4: Wait for Processing: The processing time for a family visa generally takes about 2 to 4 weeks.

4. Visa Duration and Validity:

   • The family visa is usually issued for one to three years, depending on the sponsor’s residency status.
   • It can be renewed upon expiration, provided the sponsor maintains valid residency status and meets the necessary requirements.

5. Rights and Limitations:

   • Right to Live: Family visa holders have the right to reside in the UAE for the duration of their visa.
   • Restrictions on Employment: Family members on a family visa are typically not permitted to work in the UAE unless they obtain a separate work permit.
   • Sponsorship for Additional Family Members: The primary sponsor may be able to sponsor additional family members if they meet the financial criteria.

6. Overstay Penalties:

   • Overstaying a family visa can result in fines, typically starting at AED 200 per day, along with additional legal repercussions.

7. Health Insurance:

   • Family members sponsored for a residence visa must have health insurance coverage that meets UAE standards.

8. COVID-19 Considerations:

   • It is important to check for any travel restrictions and health regulations related to COVID-19 that may affect the family visa application or travel plans.

Conclusion

The UAE Family Visa is an essential option for Bangladeshi nationals looking to reunite with their families in the UAE. By understanding the eligibility criteria, documentation requirements, and the application process, individuals can effectively navigate their journey to bring their loved ones to the UAE. If you have any further questions or need assistance with the family visa application process, feel free to ask!