Families thrive when they stay together — and the UAE Golden Visa makes it possible to plan your family’s future with clarity, stability, and peace of mind. In this guide, we explain how to sponsor your spouse, children, parents, and domestic helpers under the Golden Visa. We also share how DU Digital Global can manage the process end-to-end so you save time and avoid costly mistakes.
How a UAE Golden Visa helps your Family
The UAE Golden Visa is a long-term residence permit (valid for 10 years, renewable) that allows you and your family to live, work, and study without a local sponsor. Key benefits include:
- Sponsor your entire family – spouse and children with no age cap.
- Sponsor an unlimited number of domestic helpers – ideal for large or multi-generational households.
- Security even in emergencies – family can remain in the UAE until their permits expire even if the primary visa holder passes away.
- Flexibility – Golden Visa holders can stay outside the UAE for more than six months without losing residency status.
Who can you sponsor?
- Spouse and childrenÂ
For UAE golden visas for spouse and children, the rule is clear. Spouses and children can be sponsored with no age cap when you hold a Golden Visa. This simplifies life for families with university students, adult children, or kids who are still finding their path.
- Parents
Many Golden Visa holders also wish to sponsor their parents. Under the current UAE rules, you can include your parents in your sponsorship as long as you provide the required documentation – typically proof of relationship (attested certificate) and valid health insurance for each parent.
Fees and document requirements may vary slightly depending on the emirate, but the process remains straightforward when handled through ICP Smart Services (nationwide) or GDRFA Dubai.
- Domestic helpers
Under the UAE golden visa family sponsorship, you may also add help at home. Golden Visa holders can sponsor an unlimited number of domestic helpers. This gives large or multi-generational households the support they need.
Step-by-Step: how to sponsor your family
The process is digital-first and handled via ICP Smart Services (nationwide) or GDRFA Dubai (for Dubai residents).
Step 1: Confirm your Golden Visa Status
Make sure your Golden Visa is approved and active before starting dependent applications. You can manage services via the national ICP portal or the Dubai GDRFA portal.
Step 2: Open your Sponsor File
Create a sponsor record via GDRFA (Dubai) or ICP smart services (other emirates). This links your dependents to your Golden Visa.
Step 3: Apply for each Dependent’s Entry Permit
Upload documents and pay fees. If dependents are already in the UAE, convert their status locally before continuing with medical tests and Emirates ID. Official portals and Amer/Customer Happiness Centers support both paths.
Step 4: Complete Medical Fitness and Biometrics
Adult’s complete medical tests and Emirates ID biometrics. Children follow age rules set by health authorities.
Step 5: Residence Stamping & Emirates ID
Once approved, each dependent receives a digital residence permit and an Emirates ID valid for the same duration as your Golden Visa. Each emirate publishes fees and processing times. Dubai Land Department lists the ten-year family permit fee and a separate amount for parents.
What documents should you prepare?
- Passport copies + photos for each dependent
- Attested marriage certificate (for spouse sponsorship)
- Attested birth certificates (for children)
- Proof of relationship if names differ (affidavit or consular letter)
- Health insurance for each dependent
- Your Emirates ID & Golden Visa copy
- For parents: proof of dependency, consular certificate if required, and insurance
Domestic Helper Sponsorship: Things You Should Know
For UAE Golden Visa domestic helper sponsorship, the main steps mirror family sponsorship:
Process:
- Use your existing sponsor file.
- Apply for an entry permit.
- Complete medical, biometrics, and employment contract.
- Get residence and Emirates ID.
Tip: Always comply with domestic worker laws covering wages, rest days, and end-of-service benefits.
Special family situations we handle often
- Newborns in UAE: We coordinate birth certificate, passport, and residence issuance.
- Adult Children: Sponsorship with no age limit under Golden Visa.
- Blended Families: Assistance with name variations and attestations for smooth approvals.
- Parents with Medical Needs: Guidance on insurance plans that meet UAE standards.
Visa Costs and Timelines
The cost of sponsoring your family under a UAE Golden Visa depends on the emirate where you apply and the service channel you use (ICP Smart Services, GDRFA Dubai, or Amer centers).
Typical charges include:
- Entry Permit Fees for each dependent
- Medical Test & Emirates ID Fees (valid for the same duration as your Golden Visa)
- Status Change Fees (if dependents are already in the UAE)
When all documents are accurate, attested, and submitted correctly, processing can be very quick often within a few business days.
Tip: Applying early and in the right sequence (sponsor file → entry permits → Emirates ID) avoids last-minute delays.
How Du Digital Global Can Help
Relocating a family takes planning. We make the process easy, compliant, and stress-free:
- Case Mapping: We assess your family tree and select the correct path for each dependent.
- Document Prep & Attestation: We handle attestations, translations, and formatting so files pass on first submission.
- Right Portal, Right Order: We choose the correct ICP or GDRFA process for your emirate.
- Continuous Tracking: We monitor applications until every visa and Emirates ID is issued.
- Aftercare: We help add newborns, renew IDs, and manage future updates.
Conclusion
Sponsoring your family under the UAE Golden Visa is straightforward when you follow the rules and submit complete, accurate files. Whether you are sponsoring a spouse, children, parents, or domestic helpers, the system is designed to make family life in the UAE seamless.
With DU Digital Global, you can focus on your family’s future while we take care of the paperwork, compliance, and approvals ensuring a smooth start to your UAE journey.
FAQs
Q1. Can I sponsor my spouse and children under the Golden Visa?
Yes. Spouse and children can be sponsored with no age limit.
Q2. Can I sponsor my parents?
Yes, subject to providing proof of relationship and health insurance.
Q3. How many domestic helpers can I sponsor?
There is no limit for Golden Visa holders. Follow UAE domestic worker laws when you hire and onboard staff.
Q4. Where do I apply?
Use the ICP smart services (nationwide) or GDRFA Dubai services in Dubai. You can also visit Amer or Customer Happiness Centers for in-person help.
Also Read:
Top 10 UAE Golden Visa Mistakes to Avoid While Applying
Why UAE Golden Visa Is Your Best Path to Long-Term Residency
