UAE's New Visa Rule Boosts Family Unity

New Visa Income Rule Can Support Family Reunification

The United Arab Emirates has introduced a new rule for visitor visas that links the invitation of relatives or friends to a monthly minimum income requirement. This not only simplifies administrative processes but also helps reduce visa abuses. The positive impact of this change has been confirmed by travel and tourism sector stakeholders, who believe it establishes a more transparent, fair, and stable system for UAE residents and their families.

The essence of the regulation

On September 29, 2025, the UAE Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) announced new requirements linking visitor visa sponsorships to the sponsor's income. Under the new rules:

Residents earning at least 4,000 dirhams per month can sponsor their direct (first-degree) relatives.

Those earning over 8,000 dirhams per month are eligible to invite second and third-degree relatives.

Individuals earning 15,000 dirhams or more can even request visitor visas for friends.

This step marks a breakthrough compared to previous practices, where visas often had to be obtained through travel agencies, resulting in uncertain, non-transparent, and often rejected applications.

Advantages of the new system

One of the biggest advantages of the new regulation is that visa applications can now be submitted directly through emirate centers or registered offices. This reduces the excessive influence of travel agencies and allows UAE residents to invite their loved ones in their own right.

The process becomes not only faster and more efficient but could significantly increase the number of genuine visitors. According to authorities, there will be fewer people abusing visa conditions or staying illegally, improving the country's international reputation and bolstering the credibility of the immigration system.

Family reunification and economic benefits

The opportunity for sponsorship that becomes available to lower-income residents greatly aids family reunification. Previously, many were unable to invite their parents, siblings, or children due to failing to meet unclear previous requirements.

Now, however, the system clearly states that reaching a certain income level allows anyone, regardless of nationality, to submit a visa application. This is especially important for those who have been working in the country for a long time and have stable jobs but faced difficulties when inviting family members.

In addition, the new system could have a positive impact on the economy. Relatives and friends staying in the UAE can not only visit for tourism purposes but also explore business opportunities, initiate investments, or even seek employment. All this can contribute to strengthening the country's entrepreneurial and investment spirit.

Less abuse, more transparency

One of the main goals of implementing the new regulation is curbing abuses. Previously, it was a common issue that some individuals entered the country on a visitor visa and then violated its terms, such as overstaying or engaging in illegal work.

The more transparent sponsorship system and clearly defined income requirements can help ensure only those come to the country with genuine intentions and adequate financial backing. Moreover, applying through emirates centers could guarantee that the applicant submits the request with proper documentation and true intent.

Feedback from the travel industry

Representatives of the travel sector have unanimously welcomed the change. Many pointed out that the frequent reason for visa application rejections was that travel agencies did not risk certain profiles, mainly due to potential penalties and abuses. Now, however, the decision and responsibility largely shift to state authorities and applicants, creating a new, clearer situation.

It was also emphasized that the new system makes long-term stays in the UAE easier. The transparent and legally regulated visa policy offers a more stable environment for those wishing to live or work in the country, potentially reducing the number of high-risk stays.

Conclusion

The UAE's new visitor visa system is a timely and forward-looking step in a dynamically developing society. The introduction of minimum income requirements strikes a balance between individual freedom and state control while providing opportunities for family reunification, encouraging economic activity, and reducing the potential for system abuses.

In practice, this means that living, employed residents in the UAE—regardless of nationality—can now invite their loved ones under clear, concrete conditions, strengthening the country's social stability and economic appeal in the long run.

(Source of the article: Statement from the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP).)