Dubai Spouse Visa 2026: Complete Guide to Sponsoring Your Wife or Girlfriend for UAE Residency

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) welcomes millions of expatriates every year — many of whom choose to build a life in Dubai, one of the most cosmopolitan and progressive cities in the world. For those who are married or in a committed relationship, understanding the Dubai spouse visa process is essential to legally bring and live with your partner in the UAE.

This guide explains how to apply for a Dubai spouse visa in 2026, including eligibility requirements, documentation, validity, and the recent reforms for unmarried couples.

Understanding the Dubai Spouse Visa

What Is a Spouse Visa in the UAE?

A Dubai spouse visa (also known as a family residence visa) allows an expatriate resident or UAE national to sponsor their legally married partner to live with them in the country. This visa provides the spouse with legal residency, access to healthcare, and permission to apply for a work permit.

Can You Sponsor a Girlfriend in Dubai?

Under UAE’s updated family laws (post-2021 reforms), unmarried couples are allowed to live together legally. However, sponsorship is still granted only to legally married partners.
Unmarried partners may stay in Dubai under visit visas, freelancer permits, or other legal residence categories, but not through spousal sponsorship.

Eligibility Criteria for Sponsoring Your Spouse or Partner in Dubai

Basic Requirements for Sponsors

To sponsor your spouse for a Dubai residence visa, you must meet specific conditions set by the UAE Ministry of Interior and GDRFA (General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs):

• Sponsor must hold a valid UAE residence visa.

• Sponsor must earn a minimum monthly salary of AED 4,000 (or AED 3,000 with company-provided accommodation).

• Marriage must be officially attested and recognized by UAE authorities.

• Both partners must pass the medical fitness test.

Financial & Housing Requirements

Proof of stable income and accommodation is essential. Sponsors must provide:

• A valid tenancy contract (Ejari) or title deed.

• Latest salary certificate or employment contract.

• Utility bills to confirm the place of residence.

Step-by-Step Process to Apply for a Dubai Spouse Visa (2026 Update)

Step 1: Prepare All Required Documents

Before applying, ensure you have the following:

• Attested marriage certificate (from home country + UAE Embassy attestation).

• Passports and photos of both spouses.

• Emirates ID and residency visa copy of the sponsor.

• Salary certificate or employment contract.

• Medical test report (for applicant).

• Tenancy contract (Ejari) or proof of residence.

Step 2: Submit the Visa Application Online or via AMER Center

Applications can be submitted:

• Online through GDRFA Dubai or the UAEICP portal.

• Offline at AMER centers or authorized typing centers.

Step 3: Undergo Medical & Security Clearance

Your spouse must undergo a medical fitness test and biometric verification. These are mandatory for all residence visa applicants in Dubai.

Step 4: Receive Your Residency Visa Stamp

Once approved, the spouse visa will be stamped on the passport, granting legal residency in the UAE for the approved duration.

Required Documents for a Spouse Visa in Dubai

Mandatory Document Checklist

• Attested marriage certificate

• Passports and photos of both spouses

• Medical fitness certificate

• Salary certificate or employment contract

• Tenancy contract (Ejari)

• Emirates ID copy

• Proof of insurance (optional but recommended)

Duration and Renewal of Spouse Visa in Dubai

Visa Validity and Renewal Process

A Dubai spouse visa is typically valid for 1, 2, or 3 years, depending on the sponsor’s visa type. It can be renewed as long as the marriage and sponsorship remain valid.
Renewals must be done before the visa expiry date, following the same document process.

Can You Sponsor an Unmarried Partner in Dubai?

Understanding Cohabitation Laws in the UAE (Post-2021 Reforms)

While cohabitation between unmarried partners is no longer a criminal offense, official sponsorship privileges remain exclusive to married couples.
If you wish to live with your partner without marriage, you can:

• Apply for an individual residence permit.

• Obtain a freelancer or investor visa.

• Use short-term visit visas renewed as needed.

Common Reasons for Spouse Visa Rejection & How to Avoid Them

Financial or Documentation Issues

Applications may be rejected due to:

• Insufficient income proof

• Missing attestation on marriage certificate

• Expired residency documents

Incomplete Marriage Verification

Ensure your marriage is recognized by UAE law and properly attested by the relevant authorities before applying.

Benefits of Having a Dubai Spouse Visa

Family Stability and Residency Security

The visa allows couples to stay together, ensuring emotional and financial stability while living legally in Dubai.

Employment and Health Benefits

Once granted, the spouse can:

• Apply for a UAE work permit.

• Access UAE healthcare facilities.

• Open a bank account and obtain Emirates ID.

Why Choose Our Professional Visa Assistance?

Common Pitfalls When Applying Independently

Many applicants face rejections due to incomplete documentation, missing attestations, or errors in application submission.

How DubaiTransitVisa.com Ensures a 100% Secure & Hassle-Free Application

Our visa experts handle the entire process — from documentation and attestation to final approval — ensuring you save time, avoid costly mistakes, and secure your spouse visa effortlessly.

💡 Apply with DubaiTransitVisa.com today for reliable, fast, and transparent visa processing.

Apply for Your Spouse Visa in Dubai Today

Let our experts handle the process for you.
✅ Fast processing
✅ Verified documentation
✅ 24/7 support

👉 Apply now at Dubai Transit Visa and start your new life together in Dubai.