If I Buy Property in Dubai Can My Family Also Get Residency?

If you buy property in Dubai worth at least AED 750,000, you can indeed sponsor residency for your immediate family. You'll need to meet specific requirements, like ensuring all family members have valid passports and health insurance.

Spouses and children can be sponsored, but married daughters over 18 and sons require further documentation. Documentation includes marriage contracts and birth certificates.

Fees vary, starting at AED 200 per permit. The application involves verifying your property title and completing a medical exam.

Understanding these key legal and procedural steps will help you and your family benefit from Dubai's residency options.

Key Takeaways

• Family residency is available if you own a property in Dubai valued at AED 750,000 or more.
• Sponsorship covers spouse and children; daughters over 18 need proof of marital status.
• Property ownership requires a valid passport, health insurance, and an e-Certificate of Title.
• Application involves a medical exam and obtaining an Emirates ID for each family member.
• Residency visas are renewable every two years, with options for longer-term visas based on property value.

Eligibility Criteria for Family Residency

To sponsor immediate family members for residency in Dubai, you must meet specific criteria.

You can sponsor your spouse and children, but daughters over 18 require proof of marital status from Dubai Courts, and sons over 18 are eligible for sponsorship for one year only.

Your property must be valued at a minimum of AED 750,000, either solely or jointly with your spouse. Couples who jointly own property can qualify for residency if the property's value meets the criteria. It is crucial to have a valid passport and visa when owning property, as these documents are necessary for residency processes.

Health insurance is mandatory for all family members.

Residency permits are valid for two years and renewable if property ownership is maintained.

You must be in Dubai at least once every six months, or the visa may be canceled if the property is sold without a replacement.

Required Documentation for Applications

Navigating the residency application process in Dubai demands careful preparation. Property investors must have their passport, e-Certificate of Title, and health insurance. In Dubai, sponsorship is a crucial aspect of obtaining a residency visa, and property investors can sponsor their family members for residency. For family members, collect certified marriage contracts, birth certificates, and proof of marital status for daughters over 18. If a mother sponsors residency, a no-objection letter from the father is needed.

Document Type	Property Owner	Family Members
Passport	Yes	No
Certified Marriage Contract	No	Yes (for spouses)
Medical Fitness Certificate	Yes	Yes

Understanding Residency Permit Fees

Understanding residency permit fees in Dubai is crucial for budgeting. The base fee for a family member's permit is AED 200, with additional charges for the Knowledge Dirham and Innovation Dirham at AED 10 each. Applying inside the country incurs a fee of AED 500, plus a delivery fee of AED 20. After two years, issuance fees rise by AED 100 annually. The expected completion time for applications is 48 hours, ensuring a relatively quick process. Renewal fees vary from AED 600 to AED 3,000, depending on the visa type. Key expenses include a medical exam fee of about AED 300, an Emirates ID fee of AED 100, and mandatory health insurance costing AED 800 to AED 1,000. Renew on time to avoid fines.

Steps to Apply for Residency Visa

To apply for a residency visa in Dubai, ensure you own a fully paid freehold property meeting the investment threshold. It's important to note that only freehold residential properties are eligible for residency visas. Verify the title deed is in your name. Submit your application with required documents like your passport, photos, and medical fitness test results at the Dubai Land Department or through approved developers. Obtain an entry visa, undergo a medical exam, and apply for an Emirates ID. Visa processing takes 2-3 weeks. Collect your stamped passport and Emirates ID after approval. Family sponsorship is possible for residency.

Validity and Additional Conditions

Residency visas in Dubai are linked to your property's value and status. A 2-year renewable visa is available for properties worth AED 750,000+, while a 5-year Golden Visa is for properties valued at AED 2 million+. A 10-year visa requires properties or portfolios totaling AED 2 million. Only freehold properties registered with the Dubai Land Department qualify. If mortgaged, pay 50% and get a bank's no-objection letter. Current rules dictate residency status based on property ownership. Note, property disposal is restricted during the visa term to ensure legal compliance in Dubai.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can My Family Work in Dubai With a Residency Visa?

Yes, your family can work in Dubai with a residency visa, but they'll need separate work permits. Safeguard compliance with UAE labor laws, submit required documents, and obtain approvals from the relevant authorities for legal employment.

Are There Tax Implications for Owning Property in Dubai?

When you own property in Dubai, you won't face annual property or capital gains taxes. However, you'll pay a 4% registration fee. Residential properties are VAT-exempt, but commercial properties incur a 5% VAT.

How Long Does the Residency Visa Application Process Take?

The residency visa application process typically takes 7-10 business days. You'll schedule medical and biometric exams 2-3 days after document submission. Visa stamping on your passport takes 3-5 working days post-medical examination.

Can My Family Access Public Healthcare With Residency?

Your family can't access free public healthcare solely with residency. Health insurance is mandatory, and you'll need a health card to use public services. Remember, expats pay higher fees for public healthcare services in Dubai.

What Happens if I Sell My Property Before the Visa Expires?

If you sell your property before your visa expires, your residency may be canceled. You'll need to reinvest in another qualifying property or apply for a different visa type to maintain legal residency in Dubai.

Conclusion

If you purchase property in Dubai, your family can secure residency permits, provided you meet the eligibility criteria and submit the necessary documentation. Make sure you understand the residency permit fees and follow the application steps carefully to avoid delays.

Permits have specific validity periods and conditions, so stay informed about renewals and compliance requirements. By following these guidelines, you can successfully secure residency for your family in Dubai.