The family visa process in the UAE generally involves the following steps:

1. Eligibility Check: The sponsor (usually a UAE resident with a valid residency visa) must ensure they meet the eligibility criteria to sponsor a family member, such as spouse, children, or parents.




2. Required Documents: Gather all the following mentioned documents, 
   
   • The original ID of the sponsor/UAE Pass.
   • A copy of the sponsor’s passport.
   • A copy of the sponsor’s residence visa.
   • The sponsor’s employment contract for the private sector or salary certificate for governmental or semi-governmental entities.
   • A copy of the trade license, in addition to the Memorandum of Association if the sponsor is a partner or investor.
   • A copy of the birth certificate, attested by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs, for the children.
   • A copy of the marriage contract attested by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs for the spouse.
   • A copy of the sponsored passport.
   • A new personal photo with a white background.




3. Online Application Submission: The sponsor submits an online application for the family visa through the UAE’s immigration system or through the sponsor’s employer if applicable.




4. Medical Fitness Test: Certain categories of family visa applicants, such as spouses and children, may need to undergo a medical fitness test at an approved medical center in the UAE.




5. Security Clearance: Some family visa categories may require security clearance from the relevant authorities in the UAE.




6. Application Processing: The application is processed by the UAE’s immigration authorities, which may take several days to weeks.




7. Entry Permit Issuance: Once the application is approved, an entry permit (also known as an entry visa) is issued for the family member(s) to enter the UAE.




8. Entry into the UAE: The family member(s) can enter the UAE using the entry permit within the validity period specified.




9. Residence Visa Stamping: After entering the UAE, the family member(s) must undergo the residence visa stamping process, which involves submitting their passport and other required documents to the immigration authorities for visa stamping.




10. Medical Insurance: It is mandatory for sponsored family members to have medical insurance in the UAE.




11. ID Card Application: After visa stamping, family members can apply for Emirates ID, which is a mandatory identification card in the UAE.




12. Renewal: Family visas in the UAE are typically valid for one to three years and must be renewed before the expiry date to maintain legal residency status.