UAE's new visit visa rules set minimum salary requirement for host to sponsor family and friends

The UAE’s Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP) has revised its visit visa regulations, introducing clear income requirements for hosts sponsoring friends or relatives. The changes are a part of the UAE’s broader effort to open up to international talent, support tourism, and attract professionals in sectors like technology, artificial intelligence, and entertainment.

The updated rules specify the minimum monthly income that a sponsor must earn to host visitors, as reported by Gulf News. The regulations aim to ensure compliance, support economic growth, and maintain security while facilitating international travel and family visits. ICP officials emphasized that the changes reflect studies on residency trends and customer feedback.

Key points regarding minimum monthly income of the updated visit visa rules:

1. First-degree relatives – The host must earn at least Dh4,000 per month to sponsor a parent, sibling, or child.
2. Second- and third-degree relatives – The host’s minimum monthly income must be Dh8,000.
3. Friends of residents – Sponsorship requires a minimum salary of Dh15,000 per month.

ICP Director General Major General Suhail Saeed Al Khaili stated that these adjustments consider both economic and humanitarian factors, ensuring residents can host visitors while maintaining quality of life and safety standards.

The updated visa rules complement the UAE’s ongoing initiatives to attract skilled professionals, support business activities, and enhance the country’s competitiveness globally. Applicants must meet the income thresholds, provide relevant documentation, and comply with health and security requirements when sponsoring visitors.

These changes align with the UAE’s long-term vision of becoming a hub for global talent, innovation, and tourism, reflecting its commitment to balancing economic growth with secure and flexible residency options.