Family Visa Renewal Charges in Dubai, UAE (2025): Comprehensive Guide

Renewing a family visa in Dubai is a crucial process for expatriate families wishing to maintain legal residency and stability in the UAE. This in-depth guide covers current renewal charges, required documents, eligibility criteria, step-by-step procedures, and key updates for 2025. Whether you are a salaried employee, investor, or business partner, this article provides everything you need to navigate the renewal process smoothly and avoid costly mistakes.

Dubai's family visa system allows expatriates to sponsor their immediate family members, offering them the opportunity to live, study, and work in the UAE. Family visas are typically valid for one, two, or three years, depending on the sponsor's visa and employment status. Renewal is mandatory before the visa expiry date to maintain legal residency and avoid penalties.

Table of Contents

• Eligibility Criteria for Family Visa Renewal
• Required Documents for Renewal
• Detailed Breakdown of Family Visa Renewal Charges
• Step-by-Step Renewal Process
• Important Deadlines, Grace Periods, and Fines
• Common Questions and Troubleshooting
• Tips for a Smooth Renewal Experience
• Summary Table: Family Visa Renewal Charges (2025)

Eligibility Criteria for Family Visa Renewal

Sponsor Requirements

• Valid Residency Permit: The sponsor must have an active UAE residence visa.
• Minimum Salary: Generally, a minimum monthly salary of AED 4,000 is required for employees; this threshold may be higher for certain visa types or dependents.
• Valid Employment Contract: The sponsor must hold a valid employment contract or labor card, and be in good standing with immigration authorities (no outstanding fines or legal issues).
• Accommodation: An attested tenancy contract (Ejari) with at least 60 days' validity is required.

Dependent Requirements

• Medical Fitness: Family members over 18 must pass a medical fitness test at an authorized UAE health center.
• Emirates ID: Renewal of the Emirates ID is required alongside the visa renewal.
• Health Insurance: Mandatory for all dependents in Dubai.

Required Documents for Family Visa Renewal

To ensure a smooth process, gather the following documents:

• Sponsor's Passport and Emirates ID (original and copies)
• Dependent's Passport (original and copies)
• Current Visa Copies (sponsor and dependents)
• Recent Passport-Sized Photos (white background)
• Renewed Tenancy Contract (Ejari)
• Latest Utility Bill
• Salary Certificate or Updated Employment Contract
• Medical Fitness Certificate (for dependents over 18)
• Emirates ID Application Form
• IBAN Number of Sponsor
• Attested Birth/Marriage Certificates (if applicable)
• Health Insurance Card/Certificate

Note: For newborns, the original UAE birth certificate is required.

Detailed Breakdown of Family Visa Renewal Charges (2025)

Family visa renewal costs in Dubai vary based on the sponsor's visa type, the age of dependents, and the duration of the renewed visa. The following tables summarize the latest charges:

1. Standard Employee-Sponsored Family Visa Renewal

Item	Fee Range (AED)
Medical Typing Fees	410 – 850
Emirates ID Typing Fees	371.50 – 410
Health Insurance	Varies (mandatory)
Residence Visa Typing Fees	450 – 600
PRO/Service Fees	400 – 700

Total estimated cost (excluding insurance): AED 1,631.50 – 2,560.

2. Partner/Investor-Sponsored Family Visa Renewal

Visa Validity	Medical Typing (AED)	Emirates ID Typing (AED)	Visa Typing (AED)	PRO Fee (AED)	Total (excluding insurance)
2 years	410 – 850	371.50 – 1,250	450 – 2,900	500 – 1,000	1,731.50 – 6,000+
3 years	410 – 850	371.50 – 1,250	450 – 2,900	500 – 1,000	1,731.50 – 6,000+
5 years	410 – 850	371.50 – 1,250	450 – 2,900	500 – 1,000	1,731.50 – 6,000+
10 years	410 – 850	371.50 – 1,250	450 – 2,900	500 – 1,000	1,731.50 – 6,000+

Exact fees depend on the chosen validity period and service provider.

3. Government Fees (Based on Duration & Sponsor Type)

Visa Duration	Expat Sponsor (AED)	Citizen Sponsor (AED)
1 year	360	310
2 years	460	410
3 years	560	510

These are core government fees; additional service, typing, and insurance charges apply.

Step-by-Step Family Visa Renewal Process

1. Prepare All Required Documents: Ensure originals and copies are available.
2. Medical Fitness Test: For dependents over 18, complete and obtain the certificate.
3. Renew Emirates ID: Submit the renewal application before visa renewal.
4. Obtain/Update Health Insurance: Mandatory for all dependents.
5. Submit Application: Apply via the GDRFA Dubai portal, Amer centers, or authorized typing centers. For other emirates, use the ICP Smart Services portal.
6. Pay Fees: Pay all government, service, and insurance charges as per your case.
7. Visa Stamping: Once approved, submit passports for visa stamping.
8. Collect Passports and Emirates IDs: Upon completion, collect all renewed documents.

Important Deadlines, Grace Periods, and Fines

• Renewal Window: You can renew up to 2 months before expiry. Early renewal (up to 6 months) requires special permission from GDRFA.
• Grace Period: After visa expiry, a 30-day grace period is granted to renew or exit the country without fines.
• Overstay Fines: AED 125 for the first day, with increasing daily penalties thereafter.

Common Questions and Troubleshooting

Q: Can I renew a family visa without a tenancy contract?
A: No, a valid attested tenancy contract (Ejari) is required for renewal in Dubai.

Q: What if my salary drops below the minimum requirement?
A: The application may be rejected. Ensure your salary certificate and bank statements meet the minimum threshold.

Q: Can I renew my family visa online?
A: Yes, through the GDRFA Dubai portal or Amer centers for Dubai residents; ICP Smart Services for other emirates.

Q: What happens if I miss the grace period?
A: Overstaying incurs daily fines and may impact future immigration applications.

Tips for a Smooth Renewal Experience

• Start Early: Begin the process at least 1-2 months before expiry.
• Double-Check Documents: Incomplete or outdated paperwork is a common cause of delays.
• Maintain Good Standing: Clear all fines and resolve any legal issues before applying.
• Health Insurance: Ensure coverage is active and meets Dubai's requirements.
• Use Authorized Centers: For hassle-free processing, use Amer centers or reputable document clearing services.

Summary Table: Family Visa Renewal Charges (2025)

Category	Fee Range (AED)	Notes
Employee Sponsor	1,631.50 – 2,560	Excludes insurance
Investor Sponsor	1,731.50 – 6,000+	Varies by visa duration/type
Government Fee	360 (1yr), 460 (2yr), 560 (3yr)	Expat sponsor; citizen fees lower
Insurance Bundle	2,450 – 4,222	Depends on coverage and visa duration
Overstay Fine	125 (first day), rising	Per day after grace period
Cancellation	505.75	For dependent visa cancellation