So you’ve taken the leap and started your business in the UAE. Now, you’re thinking about bringing your family to Dubai, but where do you even begin with all the UAE family visa process stuff?

The great news is that once you’ve got your UAE residency visa sorted through your business license in Dubai or the UAE, you’re eligible to sponsor your spouse, children, and even your parents in some cases. But it’s not just about having a license. There are a few key things you need to tick off first.

First up: your income. You’ll need to show a minimum monthly salary in the UAE, usually AED 4,000 to 10,000, depending on whom you’re sponsoring. You also need to provide proof of housing in the UAE, like a tenancy contract, and health insurance in the UAE for each family member.

The UAE family sponsorship visa process itself is pretty straightforward. Once you have your Emirates ID and your business trade license is active, you apply through the GDRFA (General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs) or the relevant emirate authority. Submit your documents, pay the UAE visa fees, and wait for approval. In most cases, it’s all digital and surprisingly fast.

Each UAE dependent visa comes with its own validity, typically one, two, or three years, so you’ll want to set reminders for visa renewals in the UAE. Also, keep in mind that you’ll be financially responsible for your dependents, so plan your UAE business and family budget accordingly.

This is one of the best parts of being a business owner in the UAE. You’re not just building a company, you’re building a lifestyle that includes the people you care about most. And the UAE government makes it pretty seamless, as long as you’ve got your paperwork in order.

Need help making sure it’s all done right? FounderX has helped tons of entrepreneurs, business owners, and investors in Dubai bring their families over, with all the UAE visa forms, fees, and fine print handled for you, getting a family visa has never been more easier!