Dubai remains one of the most sought-after destinations for expatriate families, thanks to its safe environment, excellent infrastructure, and job opportunities. If you are living in Dubai and have sponsored your spouse, children, or parents on a family visa, it’s important to keep their visa status up to date.
Family visas in the UAE typically come with a validity of 1, 2, or 3 years and must be renewed before they expire to avoid fines and legal issues. In this 2025 guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about how to extend your family visa in Dubai, including the eligibility, documents, fees, and step-by-step procedure.
Who Can Extend a Family Visa in Dubai?
You can extend your family visa if:
- You are a valid UAE resident sponsor (employed or self-employed)
- Your dependents (spouse, children, parents) are already on a valid UAE family visa
- You meet the minimum salary requirement:
- AED 4,000 or
- AED 3,000 + accommodation
Validity of Family Visas in 2025
- Spouse & Children: Usually 2–3 years
- Parents: Usually 1 year (renewable annually)
- Extensions must be done before expiry to avoid overstay fines (AED 50/day).
Documents Required for Family Visa Renewal (2025)
Here are the updated documents you’ll need:
- Sponsor’s passport copy + valid UAE residence visa
- Emirates ID copy of the sponsor
- Passport copy of the family member
- Recent passport-size photo of the family member (white background)
- Medical fitness certificate (for members aged 18+)
- Valid health insurance (mandatory in Dubai)
- Original tenancy contract (Ejari)
- Salary certificate or job contract
- Renewal form from Amer or typing center
- Old Emirates ID and visa page copy of the dependent
- Attested relationship certificate (if required again by authority)
Step-by-Step: How to Extend a Family Visa in Dubai (2025)
Step 1: Medical Fitness Test
– Visit an approved medical center
– Get tests done (blood test + chest X-ray)
– Receive certificate in 24-48 hours
Step 2: Health Insurance Renewal
– Renew or update the dependent’s health insurance policy
– Must cover the entire visa duration
Step 3: Document Typing at Amer Center
– Visit any Amer center or use GDRFA online portal
– Submit renewal application and documents
– Pay the applicable fees
Step 4: Approval and Visa Stamping
– After approval, the visa will be digitally renewed
– If stamping is required (in some cases), submit passport for stamping
– Emirates ID renewal happens in parallel (requires biometric if expired)
Family Visa Renewal Fees in Dubai (2025)
| Service | Approx. Fee (AED) |
|---|---|
| Medical Fitness Test | 300–700 |
| Health Insurance (Basic Plan) | 800–1,200 |
| Visa Renewal Typing + Application | 250–350 |
| Emirates ID Renewal | 370–500 |
| Total Estimated Cost per Person | 1,500–2,500 |
Grace Period for Family Visa Renewal in 2025
- The grace period is 30 days after the visa expiry.
- After 30 days, overstay fines begin at AED 50 per day.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Waiting till the last minute to start the renewal process
- Failing to renew the medical insurance
- Submitting unclear or expired documents
- Missing Emirates ID renewal
Final Thoughts
Extending your family visa in Dubai is a straightforward process when done on time and with the right documentation. As a sponsor, it’s your responsibility to ensure your loved ones remain legal residents of the UAE. With the updated rules in 2025, start the process at least 1 month before expiry to stay worry-free.
If you need expert help, our family visa specialists at Quick Attestation can assist with medical test appointments, document clearance, and fast-tracked renewals—saving you time and effort.
