Relocating to the UAE, particularly Dubai, is an exciting opportunity for professionals and entrepreneurs worldwide. One of the most appealing aspects of living in the UAE is the ability to bring your family along through a family visa. However, a common hurdle for many expatriates is the requirement of a tenancy contract (Ejari in Dubai) as proof of accommodation. If you’re wondering whether it’s possible to obtain a family visa in the UAE without a tenancy contract, the good news is that there are alternative pathways to make this happen. At Global Business Setup, we specialize in simplifying visa processes for expatriates in Dubai, ensuring you can reunite with your loved ones seamlessly.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the eligibility criteria, alternative documentation options, step-by-step application processes, and expert tips to help you secure a family visa without a traditional tenancy contract. Let’s dive in and discover how you can bring your family to the UAE with ease.

 

Understanding the UAE Family Visa

A UAE family visa, also known as a dependent visa, allows expatriates with a valid residence visa to sponsor their immediate family members, including spouses, children, and, in some cases, parents. This visa ensures your loved ones can legally reside in the UAE, access essential services like healthcare and education, and enjoy the vibrant lifestyle Dubai offers.

 

Why Is a Tenancy Contract Typically Required?

The UAE government, through the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA), requires proof of accommodation to ensure sponsors can provide suitable living conditions for their families. In Dubai, this is typically a tenancy contract registered through the Ejari system, which includes details such as:

• Landlord and tenant information
• Property address, size, and type
• Lease term (start and end dates)
• Rent amount and payment terms

However, not all expatriates have a traditional tenancy contract. You might be living in company-provided housing, staying with relatives, or have other unique living arrangements. In such cases, alternative documentation can often be used to meet the accommodation proof requirement.

Can You Get a Family Visa in the UAE Without a Tenancy Contract?

While a tenancy contract is the standard requirement, it is possible to obtain a family visa without one under specific circumstances. The key is to provide alternative proof of accommodation that satisfies the GDRFA’s requirements. Here’s how you can navigate this process:

Alternative Proof of Accommodation

If you don’t have a tenancy contract, the following alternatives may be accepted, depending on the emirate and specific GDRFA office:

Employer-Provided Accommodation Letter

If your employer provides housing as part of your compensation package, you can request a letter from your employer confirming that accommodation is provided. This letter should be addressed to the GDRFA and include details such as:

• • Your name and employee status
  • Confirmation that accommodation is provided
  • Address and description of the accommodation
  • Employer’s contact information and official stamp

Example Scenario: John, an engineer in Dubai, lives in a company-provided apartment. His employer issued a letter confirming the accommodation, which was accepted by the GDRFA for his family visa application.

No Objection Certificate (NOC) from a Relative or Landlord

If you’re staying with a relative or in shared accommodation, you can submit an NOC from the property owner or leaseholder (e.g., a relative or landlord). The NOC should confirm that you and your family are permitted to reside at the property. It should include:

• • Full names and contact details of the property owner
  • Property address
  • Consent for you and your family to live there
  • A copy of the property owner’s Emirates ID and tenancy contract

Note: The landlord’s tenancy contract must be registered with Ejari or the relevant authority in your emirate.

Utility Bills or Other Proof

In some cases, recent utility bills (e.g., DEWA bills for electricity and water) in your name or the name of the property owner can support your application. These should be accompanied by an NOC or other documentation to verify your residence.

Accommodation in Another Emirate

If you live in an emirate other than Dubai (e.g., Sharjah or Abu Dhabi), you may use a tenancy contract or utility bill attested by the respective municipality. For example, a Sharjah tenancy contract attested by the Sharjah Municipality can sometimes be used for a Dubai family visa, provided you clarify your work and residence situation with the GDRFA.

Important: Acceptance of alternative documentation varies by emirate and GDRFA office. Always confirm specific requirements with the relevant authority or consult a professional service like Global Business Setup to ensure compliance.

 

Eligibility Criteria for Sponsoring a Family Visa

To sponsor a family visa in the UAE, you must meet the following eligibility criteria, regardless of whether you have a tenancy contract:

• Valid Residence Visa: You must hold a valid UAE residence visa.
• Minimum Salary:
  • Male sponsors: AED 4,000 per month or AED 3,000 plus accommodation.
  • Female sponsors: AED 10,000 per month or AED 8,000 plus accommodation (with specific professions like doctor, engineer, or teacher often required).
• Medical Fitness: Sponsored family members over 18 must pass a medical fitness test at a government-approved health center.
• Valid Documentation: You’ll need attested documents such as marriage certificates (for spouses) and birth certificates (for children), translated into Arabic if issued outside the UAE.

Did You Know? Since March 2019, the UAE has relaxed profession-based restrictions, allowing most professionals to sponsor their families as long as they meet the salary requirements.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a Family Visa Without a Tenancy Contract

Here’s a detailed roadmap to help you navigate the family visa application process without a tenancy contract:

Step 1: Gather Required Documents

Prepare the following documents, ensuring they are complete and attested where necessary:

• Sponsor’s passport and residence visa copies
• Sponsor’s Emirates ID
• Sponsor’s labor contract or salary certificate (proving minimum salary)
• Alternative proof of accommodation (e.g., employer letter, NOC, or utility bills)
• Attested marriage certificate (for spouse) or birth certificate (for children)
• Passport copies and recent passport-sized photos of family members
• Medical insurance for sponsored family members
• No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your employer, if required

Step 2: Apply for an Entry Permit

If your family members are outside the UAE, apply for an entry permit through:

• The GDRFA website or mobile app
• Amer Centres in Dubai
• A registered typing center

The entry permit allows your family to enter the UAE and begin the visa process. If they’re already in the UAE on a visit visa, you’ll need to apply for a status change (approximately AED 640).

Step 3: Medical Fitness Test

Family members over 18 must undergo a medical fitness test at an approved health center. Tests typically include blood work and chest X-rays to screen for communicable diseases.

Step 4: Apply for the Emirates ID

Submit an Emirates ID application for each family member at an FAIC (Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship) center or online. Required documents include:

• Passport copies
• Entry permit or status change confirmation
• Two passport-sized photos

Step 5: Visa Stamping

Submit all documents to the GDRFA for visa stamping on your family members’ passports. This finalizes the residence visa, typically valid for 1, 2, or 3 years, depending on your labor contract.

Step 6: Renewal Planning

Family visas must be renewed before expiry, usually every 1–3 years. Start the renewal process at least one month in advance to avoid penalties. Alternative accommodation proof will again be required if you lack a tenancy contract.

 

Costs of a Family Visa in the UAE

The cost of a family visa varies based on visa duration, emirate, and whether family members are inside or outside the UAE. Here’s a breakdown of typical expenses:

• Entry Permit: AED 500–1,200 per person
• Status Change (if already in UAE): AED 640
• Medical Fitness Test: AED 320–500 per person
• Emirates ID: AED 250–450 (depending on visa duration)
• Visa Stamping: AED 500–700 per person
• Administrative Fees: AED 100–300
• Attestation Costs: Varies (for marriage/birth certificates)
• Health Insurance: Varies based on coverage

Total Estimated Cost: AED 4,000–7,000 per person for a 2-year visa.

Pro Tip: Working with a professional service like Global Business Setup can streamline the process and potentially reduce costs by avoiding errors or delays.

 

Challenges and Solutions

Applying for a family visa without a tenancy contract can present challenges, such as:

• Longer Processing Times: Alternative documentation may require additional scrutiny, leading to delays.
  Solution: Ensure all documents are complete, accurate, and submitted early. Consult with experts to verify requirements.
• Emirate-Specific Rules: Requirements for alternative proof may differ between Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or Sharjah.
  Solution: Contact the GDRFA office in your emirate or rely on Global Business Setup for emirate-specific guidance.
• Document Rejection: Incomplete or unverified documents can lead to application rejection.
  Solution: Double-check attestation and translation requirements, especially for marriage and birth certificates.

Why Choose Global Business Setup?

At Global Business Setup, we understand the complexities of UAE visa processes and are committed to making your family visa application stress-free. Here’s why expatriates in Dubai trust us:

• Expert Guidance: Our team stays updated on GDRFA regulations, ensuring compliance with the latest requirements.
• Tailored Solutions: We help you identify and prepare alternative accommodation proof, even without a tenancy contract.
• End-to-End Support: From document attestation to visa stamping, we handle every step, saving you time and effort.
• Proven Track Record: We’ve helped thousands of expatriates reunite with their families in the UAE.

Ready to bring your family to Dubai? Contact Global Business Setup today at +971 4 123 4567 or email us at info@globalbusinessetup.com. Visit our website at globalbusinessetup.com to learn more about our visa and business setup services.

 

Conclusion

Securing a family visa in the UAE without a tenancy contract is entirely possible with the right approach and documentation. By leveraging alternative proof of accommodation, meeting eligibility criteria, and following the correct application steps, you can bring your family to Dubai and enjoy the UAE’s world-class lifestyle together. At Global Business Setup, we’re here to guide you every step of the way, ensuring a smooth and successful visa process.

Don’t let the absence of a tenancy contract hold you back. Get in touch with Global Business Setup today to start your family visa application. Call us at +971 52 574 8417, email info@globalbusinessetup.com, or visit globalbusinessetup.com for personalized assistance. Let us help you reunite with your loved ones in Dubai!

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use a tenancy contract in my spouse’s name for a family visa?

A: Yes, if the tenancy contract is in your spouse’s name, you can submit a letter from your spouse stating no objection to using it for the visa application, along with their Emirates ID copy.

Q: How long does the family visa process take without a tenancy contract?

A: Processing typically takes 5–10 working days, but alternative documentation may extend this timeline. Ensure all documents are complete to avoid delays.

Q: Can I sponsor my parents without a tenancy contract?

A: Yes, but you’ll need alternative proof of accommodation, a minimum salary of AED 10,000, and additional documents like a dependency certificate. Both parents must generally be sponsored together unless specific circumstances (e.g., death or divorce) are documented.

Q: What happens if my alternative proof is rejected?

A: If rejected, the GDRFA will specify the issue. You can resubmit with corrected or additional documents. Partnering with Global Business Setup minimizes the risk of rejection.