Maya and Jamal were mapping out their move to Dubai, and the one thing that kept popping up was the cost of a spouse visa. The answer felt like a maze—salary rules, fees, and deadlines all tangled together. We’ve broken every twist down so you can navigate the process with ease. Ready to dive in? Let’s chart the journey together.
Summary Table
| Emirate | Visa Type | Minimum Salary (AED) | Cost (AED) | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dubai | Short‑Term (2‑Year) | 4,000 (or 3,000 + accommodation) | 210 | 48 hrs |
| Dubai | Long‑Term (5‑Year) | 4,000 (or 3,000 + accommodation) | 210 | 48 hrs |
| Abu Dhabi | Short‑Term (2‑Year) | 4,000 (or 3,000 + accommodation) | 210 | 48 hrs |
| Abu Dhabi | Long‑Term (5‑Year) | 4,000 (or 3,000 + accommodation) | 210 | 48 hrs |
| Ajman | Short‑Term (2‑Year) | 4,000 (or 3,000 + accommodation) | 210 | 48 hrs |
| Ajman | Long‑Term (5‑Year) | 4,000 (or 3,000 + accommodation) | 210 | 48 hrs |
Sponsorship Rules & Regulatory Landscape
The GDRFA Dubai website lists a minimum monthly salary requirement: AED 4,000, or AED 3,000 plus a separate accommodation allowance. That rule covers every emirate, and the fee schedule and processing time stay the same across them. Sponsors must also supply three‑month bank statements and a recent salary slip to prove they meet the requirement. If the salary falls below the threshold, the application is rejected—no loopholes here. The same salary rule applies to UAE family visa costs everywhere.
Step‑by‑Step Application Process
- Confirm your monthly income or accommodation allowance; this is the foundation of your visa.
- Gather the documents—passport, photos, marriage certificate, sponsor’s ID, and recent bank statements.
- Log into the GDRFA portal and pick Family Sponsorship – Spouse from the menu.
- Enter your details, upload the files, and pay the fee with a credit card or bank transfer.
- Submit and watch the reference number appear; that’s your ticket to the next phase.
- Once approved, collect the spouse’s Emirates ID and renew the visa within 30 days of entry.
FAQ – Cost‑Related Questions
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What is the exact cost of a spouse visa in Dubai? | AED 200 + 5 % VAT = AED 210. |
| Do I need to pay a fee if I apply from abroad? | No additional fee; only the base AED 200 + VAT. |
| Is there a difference between short‑term and long‑term visa costs? | The fee is the same; the difference lies in the validity period. |
| Can I reduce the cost by using a fast‑track service? | Fast‑track is not available for spouse visas. |
| Are there hidden fees? | No hidden fees beyond the base fee and VAT. |
| What happens if the sponsor’s salary falls below the threshold? | The visa application will be rejected; the sponsor must increase salary or provide proof of accommodation. |
Printable Checklist – Call to Action
If you’re ready to start, download our printable checklist to ensure you have all documents ready.
Stay Updated
The visa landscape shifts faster than a desert wind, so keep an eye on the GDRFA news feed and official UAE portal updates. Bookmark those links and set reminders; a timely check can save you thousands in unexpected fees.
Curious about the numbers that come into play when you’re planning a move to the UAE?
We’ve pulled the latest data into a quick‑reference table that lays out short‑term and long‑term spouse visa options for Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Ajman.
The table lists the minimum salary, extra accommodation allowance, visa fee, and processing time in a single glance.
With these figures at hand, you can spot which emirate offers the fastest turnaround or the lowest cost.
Ready to dive into the numbers?
Quick‑Reference Summary Table
| Emirate | Visa Type | Minimum Salary (AED) | Accommodation Allowance | Visa Fee (AED) | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dubai | Short‑Term (2‑Year) | 4,000 (or 3,000 + accommodation) | 3,000 + accommodation | 200 + 5 % VAT | 48 hrs |
| Dubai | Long‑Term (5‑Year) | 4,000 (or 3,000 + accommodation) | 3,000 + accommodation | 200 + 5 % VAT | 48 hrs |
| Abu Dhabi | Short‑Term (2‑Year) | 4,000 (or 3,000 + accommodation) | 3,000 + accommodation | Not specified | Not specified |
| Abu Dhabi | Long‑Term (5‑Year) | 4,000 (or 3,000 + accommodation) | 3,000 + accommodation | Not specified | Not specified |
| Ajman | Short‑Term (2‑Year) | 4,000 (or 3,000 + accommodation) | 3,000 + accommodation | Not specified | Not specified |
| Ajman | Long‑Term (5‑Year) | 4,000 (or 3,000 + accommodation) | 3,000 + accommodation | Not specified | Not specified |
The table shows that Dubai publishes a clear fee schedule and processing time, while the other emirates keep their figures vague.
Did you know that the salary requirement—AED 4,000 or AED 3,000 plus a separate accommodation allowance—remains uniform across all emirates? This consistency means you can compare costs without worrying about hidden regional differences.
When choosing an emirate, the main differentiator is speed. Dubai’s 48‑hour turnaround can feel like a sprint, whereas Abu Dhabi and Ajman typically take 2–5 business days.
If you’re on a tight schedule, Dubai’s fast‑track option—an extra AED 100 for a 24‑hour review—might be worth the premium.
Meeting the salary threshold is non‑negotiable. If your monthly earnings fall short, the visa will be rejected, and you’ll need to either boost your income or provide proof of adequate accommodation.
Think of the threshold as a gatekeeper; crossing it opens the door to family life in the UAE.
These figures are the latest as of December 2025. They’re our compass for planning budgets and timelines.
FAQ Snapshot
- What is the base cost for a spouse visa in Dubai? AED 200 + 5 % VAT (≈AED 210).
- Do in‑country applicants pay extra fees? Yes—AED 20 for Knowledge/Innovation Dirhams and AED 500 for processing.
- Is the cost the same for short‑term and long‑term visas? The fee is identical; the difference is validity.
- Can I fast‑track my application? Dubai offers a 24‑hour service for an additional AED 100.
- What happens if the salary requirement isn’t met? The application is denied; you must prove higher earnings or adequate accommodation.
These concise answers keep you from guessing and help you budget accurately.
Next Steps
With the table and FAQ in hand, we’ll walk through the step‑by‑step application process in the next section. Stay tuned to learn how to gather documents, pay fees, and submit your application smoothly.
We’ve all stared at that spreadsheet of UAE visa fees and wondered why the salary requirement feels like a cliff. It’s not just numbers—it’s a lifeline for families. In this section, we’ll break down the spouse visa Dubai cost landscape so you can see exactly what the GDRFA expects and how recent tweaks affect your wallet.
Quick Reference Table
| Emirate | Visa Type | Minimum Salary (AED) | Visa Fee (AED) | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dubai | Short‑Term (2‑Year) | 4,000 (or 3,000 + accommodation) | 200 + 5 % VAT | 48 hrs |
| Dubai | Long‑Term (5‑Year) | 4,000 (or 3,000 + accommodation) | 200 + 5 % VAT | 48 hrs |
| Abu Dhabi | Short‑Term (2‑Year) | 4,000 (or 3,000 + accommodation) | Not specified | 2‑3 days |
| Ajman | Short‑Term (2‑Year) | 4,000 (or 3,000 + accommodation) | Not specified | 3‑5 days |
1. Salary Requirement Explained
The GDRFA mandates a minimum monthly salary of AED 4,000 or a AED 3,000 base plus a separate accommodation allowance. This rule is uniform across all emirates and is enforced through the official UAE portal.
2. Recent Regulatory Tweaks (2024‑25)
- Jan 2024 – Knowledge Dirham and Innovation Dirham added, each AED 10 for applicants already in the UAE.
- Feb 2024 – Processing fee inside UAE rose from AED 300 to AED 500.
- Mar 2024 – Clarified that the 5 % VAT applies to the AED 200 base fee in Dubai.
3. Required Documentation (Real‑World Example)
- Salary Slip – Latest month’s slip showing AED 4,000.
- Bank Statement – Minimum 3 months, showing consistent salary deposits.
- Lease Agreement – Proof of accommodation if you’re using the AED 3,000 + allowance route.
- Marriage Certificate – Translated and apostilled.
- Sponsor’s Emirates ID and Residence Visa Copy.
4. Step‑by‑Step Application Flow
- Log in to the GDRFA Dubai portal or UAE portal.
- Select “Family Sponsorship – Spouse.”
- Enter sponsor and spouse details – name, nationality, DOB.
- Upload documents – keep PDFs under 5 MB.
- Pay the fee – AED 200 + 5 % VAT (≈AED 210) plus any in‑country add‑ons.
- Submit and receive a reference number.
- Await approval – 48 hrs in Dubai; 2‑3 days elsewhere.
- Collect Emirates ID for the spouse within 30 days of entry.
5. Quick FAQ
- What is the exact cost in Dubai? AED 200 + 5 % VAT, plus AED 20 Dirhams if applying from inside the UAE, and AED 500 processing fee.
- Do I pay extra if I apply from abroad? No, only the base fee applies.
- Is there a difference between short‑term and long‑term costs? The fee is identical; the validity period differs.
- Can I fast‑track the process? Yes, for an extra AED 100.
- What if my salary dips below AED 4,000? The application will be rejected.
For more details, visit the official GDRFA portal.
Download our printable checklist to keep track of required documents and fees.
Step‑by‑Step Application Process: From Pre‑Check to Final Approval
We’ve mapped the whole journey so you can see every cost and deadline clearly. The “spouse visa dubai cost” is not a mystery; it’s a series of steps that, when followed, feel as smooth as a desert breeze. Are you ready to turn paperwork into a passport? Let’s dive in.
| Emirate | Visa Type | Minimum Salary (AED) | Accommodation Allowance | Visa Fee (AED) | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dubai | Short‑Term (2‑Year) | 4,000 (or 3,000 + accommodation) | 3,000 + lease | 200 + 5 % VAT | 48 hrs |
| Dubai | Long‑Term (5‑Year) | 4,000 (or 3,000 + accommodation) | 3,000 + lease | 200 + 5 % VAT | 48 hrs |
| Abu Dhabi | Short‑Term (2‑Year) | 4,000 (or 3,000 + accommodation) | 3,000 + lease | Not disclosed | 2‑3 days |
| Abu Dhabi | Long‑Term (5‑Year) | 4,000 (or 3,000 + accommodation) | 3,000 + lease | Not disclosed | 2‑3 days |
| Ajman | Short‑Term (2‑Year) | 4,000 (or 3,000 + accommodation) | 3,000 + lease | Not disclosed | 3‑5 days |
| Ajman | Long‑Term (5‑Year) | 4,000 (or 3,000 + accommodation) | 3,000 + lease | Not disclosed | 3‑5 days |
Sponsorship Rules & Recent Tweaks
- Salary requirement: Minimum AED 4,000 per month or AED 3,000 plus a separate accommodation allowance.
- Bank statements: Show the last three months of salary.
- Knowledge & Innovation Dirhams: AED 10 each if applying inside the UAE (adds AED 20).
- Processing fee: AED 500 for in‑country applicants, none for abroad.
- Fast‑track: Extra AED 100 guarantees a 24‑hour turnaround in Dubai.
- Pitfall: Forgetting to translate the marriage certificate can stall the process for weeks.
1️⃣ Pre‑Application Checklist
- Verify salary slip and lease agreement.
- Gather passport, photos, marriage certificate, sponsor’s Emirates ID, residence visa copy, bank statements.
- Pay the base fee: AED 200 + 5 % VAT (≈AED 210).
- If inside UAE, add AED 20 Dirhams + AED 500 fee.
2️⃣ Online Portal Navigation
- Log in to the GDRFA Dubai portal (or UAE portal).
- Choose “Family Sponsorship – Spouse.”
- Enter sponsor and spouse details.
- Upload documents (PDF, max 5 MB).
- Pay via credit card or bank transfer.
- Submit and note the reference number.
3️⃣ Processing & Issuance
| Emirate | Typical Time | Fast‑track |
|---|---|---|
| Dubai | 48 hrs | 24 hrs + AED 100 |
| Abu Dhabi | 2‑3 days | Not offered |
| Ajman | 3‑5 days | Not offered |
After approval, collect the spouse’s Emirates ID and renew the residence visa within 30 days of entry. For short‑term visas, renew every 2 years; for long‑term, every 5 years—same steps, same fee.
Quick FAQ on Costs
- What’s the exact spouse visa cost in Dubai? AED 200 + VAT + optional Dirhams + AED 500 if inside UAE.
- Can I avoid the 5 % VAT? No, it’s mandatory.
- Is there a cheaper route? Fast‑track saves time but adds AED 100.
- What if salary drops below AED 4,000? Application fails; you must raise salary or prove accommodation.
We’ve laid out the timeline, fees, and pitfalls—ready to move on to the next step of securing your family’s future.
Cost Breakdown & Hidden Fees: What You’ll Pay in Dubai and Beyond
We’ve pulled every line item into a single view so you can see the real numbers that shape your budget. Think of it as a recipe: base visa fee, a dash of VAT, a sprinkle of Knowledge and Innovation Dirhams, and the secret sauce of processing fees. Ready to see the ingredients?
| Item | Base (AED) | VAT 5% | Knowledge Dirham | Innovation Dirham | Processing (In‑country) | Fast‑track Extra | Total (In‑country) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dubai Spouse Visa | 200 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 500 | 100 | 830 |
| Dubai Fast‑track | 200 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 500 | 100 | 830 |
| Apply from Abroad | 200 | 10 | – | – | – | – | 210 |
How the Numbers Stack Up
We’ve broken the fee into bite‑size pieces so you can spot where the money goes. The base fee of AED 200 is the same everywhere, but the 5 % VAT nudges it to AED 210. If you’re already in the UAE, you’ll hit two extra dirhams—one for Knowledge, one for Innovation—adding AED 20. Then comes the processing fee: AED 500 for in‑country applicants, a hefty cost that covers the paperwork, medical exam, and Emirates ID issuance.
Want to test your own budget? Try this quick calculator:
1. Start with AED 200.
2. Add 5 % VAT.
3. If in‑country, add AED 20 for dirhams.
4. Add AED 500 for processing.
5. Add AED 100 if you want fast‑track.
Hidden Expanses You’ll Spot Later
- Medical exam: AED 50‑100 per person, mandatory for all family members.
- Emirates ID: AED 30 per card, plus a renewal fee after 30 days.
- Accommodation proof: lease agreement or utility bill, usually a small extra cost if you need to upgrade your housing.
- Travel to the consulate: if you’re abroad, factor in flight and accommodation.
- Bank statement fees: some banks charge AED 15‑20 for printing a 3‑month statement.
These are the little bumps that can turn a smooth ride into a rough dune. Knowing them ahead of time lets you budget accurately and avoid surprises when you’re on the move.
Next up: How to Apply and Avoid Common Pitfalls
Frequently Asked Questions: Spouse Visa Dubai Cost
Introduction
Here’s a quick snapshot of the main points for spouse visas in the biggest emirates. Figures are approximate – double‑check the latest info on official government portals.
| Emirate | Visa Type | Minimum Salary | Cost | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dubai | Spouse Visa | AED 30,000 per annum | AED 200 + 5 % VAT | 30 days |
| Abu Dhabi | Spouse Visa | AED 30,000 per annum | AED 200 + 5 % VAT | 30 days |
| Ajman | Spouse Visa | AED 30,000 per annum | AED 200 + 5 % VAT | 30 days |
FAQs
-
What is the exact cost of a spouse visa in Dubai?
It comes to AED 200 plus 5 % VAT, about AED 210. If you’re applying from within the UAE, add a Knowledge Dirham (AED 10), an Innovation Dirham (AED 10), and a AED 500 processing fee. That brings the total to roughly AED 730. For the latest numbers, head to the official UAE immigration portal: https://u.ae/en/information-and-services/visa-and-emirates-id. -
Do I need to pay a fee if I apply from abroad?
No – when you apply from outside the UAE, you only pay the AED 200 base fee plus 5 % VAT. -
Is there a difference between short‑term and long‑term visa costs?
No. The fee stays the same; only the validity period changes. -
Can I reduce the cost by using a fast‑track service?
Fast‑track in Dubai adds AED 100 and locks in a 24‑hour turnaround. -
Are there hidden fees?
The only extra charges are the Knowledge Dirham (AED 10), the Innovation Dirham (AED 10), and the AED 500 processing fee for those applying in‑country. -
What happens if the sponsor’s salary falls below the threshold?
If the sponsor’s salary dips below the threshold, the application is rejected. The sponsor then has to bump the salary or prove suitable accommodation to satisfy the requirement.
Download Checklist
Keep every fee and document in order before you start.
Download PDF
The next section will guide you through the renewal process to keep your family visa humming. Stick around – we’re just getting warmed up.
Downloadable Checklist: Your Ultimate Spouse Visa Preparation Tool
This printable PDF checklist covers every document, fee schedule, and timeline reminder you’ll need for a spouse visa in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Ajman. Grab it to stay organized and avoid missing a single step.
Summary Table
| Emirate | Visa Type | Minimum Salary | Fee | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dubai | Spouse Visa | AED 4,000 | AED 200 + VAT | 48 hours |
| Abu Dhabi | Spouse Visa | AED 4,000 | AED 200 + VAT | 2–5 business days |
| Ajman | Spouse Visa | AED 4,000 | AED 200 + VAT | 2–5 business days |
(Fees are subject to change. Check the official GDRFA portal for the latest rates.)
Sponsorship Rules & Required Documents
- Sponsorship: The sponsor must be a UAE citizen, a resident with a valid employment contract, or a business owner with an established company.
- Minimum Salary: AED 4,000 per month (or AED 3,000 plus a separate accommodation allowance).
- Documents Needed:
- Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity).
- Recent passport‑size photographs.
- Official marriage certificate (translated into Arabic).
- Sponsor’s Emirates ID and employment contract or company registration.
- Bank statements showing the sponsor’s salary.
Application Process
- Prepare Documents – Gather and verify all required paperwork.
- Upload to GDRFA Portal – Submit the documents and pay the base fee.
- Processing – Dubai: 48 hours; Abu Dhabi & Ajman: 2–5 business days.
- Receive Permit – The spouse’s entry permit is issued as a sticker.
- Collect Emirates ID – Must be done within 30 days of arrival.
- Renew Residence Visa – Before the visa expires.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
What is the cost of a spouse visa in Dubai?
The base fee is AED 200 plus 5 % VAT. -
Do I need to pay a fee if I apply from abroad?
No additional fee is required; only the base fee applies. -
Is there a difference between short‑term and long‑term visa costs?
The fee remains the same; the validity period differs. -
Are there any hidden fees?
The only additional charges are the standard processing fee and VAT. -
What happens if the sponsor’s salary falls below the threshold?
The application will be rejected; the sponsor must increase the salary or provide proof of accommodation.
Call to Action
Download the checklist now to keep all your documents organized and to ensure a smooth visa application process. Share it with friends who are planning a move to the UAE.