How Single Mothers Can Sponsor Their Children in the UAE: A Comprehensive Guide

The UAE’s residency laws allow both fathers and mothers to sponsor family visas, giving equal opportunity to both parents. Single or divorced mothers can also sponsor their children, provided they meet certain requirements, such as holding a valid residency visa and employment.

A single mother needs to earn a minimum salary of Dh4,000 per month or Dh3,500 if accommodation is provided by the employer to sponsor her children.

Required Documents for Sponsoring Children

Here’s a simple checklist of the documents you’ll need:

1. Application Form: Complete the residency visa application online or at a typing center. Submit an Emirates ID application for each family member.
2. Passport Copies: Include copies of your passport and your children’s passports.
3. Emirates ID: Provide a copy of your UAE resident ID.
4. Medical Certificate: For children above 18, a medical clearance certificate is required.
5. Salary Certificate: Submit a document from your employer showing your monthly income.
6. Bank Statement: It’s helpful to attach your recent bank account statements.
7. Tenancy Contract: Include your attested rental agreement, verified via the Ejari system.

Additional Requirements After Divorce

For divorced mothers, additional documents are necessary:

1. Child Custody Verdict: Provide the court-issued custody decision, stating you have custody of the child.
2. UAE Embassy Attestation: The custody document must be attested by the UAE Embassy in the country where the divorce occurred.
3. MoFA Attestation: Further attestation is required by the UAE’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
4. Arabic Translation: All documents must be translated into Arabic by a certified translator.
5. No Objection Certificate (NOC): If possible, obtain an NOC from your ex-husband granting consent for the sponsorship.

Other Important Notes

• Security Deposit: A refundable deposit of Dh2,500 per child is required.
• NOC from Father: Depending on the situation, an NOC may or may not be required. If the biological father is uninvolved or not in the UAE, an NOC might not be necessary.

How to Apply for a Child’s Visa

1. Submit the Application:
   File the application at the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA), the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICP), or a typing center in your emirate.
2. Medical Fitness Test:
   For children 18 years or older, a fitness test, including blood tests and X-rays, is mandatory.
3. Apply for Emirates ID:
   After visa approval, apply for your child’s Emirates ID. Biometrics (fingerprints and photo) are required.
4. Residence Visa Issuance:
   Once the visa is stamped, your child will officially be a UAE resident.

Visa Fees

Visa costs vary by emirate. Here’s an approximate breakdown for Dubai:

• Residence Permit Fee: Dh200
• Knowledge Fee: Dh10
• Innovation Fee: Dh10
• Fee for In-Country Processing: Dh500
• Delivery Fee: Dh20

Additional charges may apply depending on the visa duration, typically Dh100 per extra year. Check with the GDRFA or ICP for the most accurate details.

By following these guidelines, single mothers can easily navigate the process of sponsoring their children in the UAE. For tailored advice, consult your local immigration authority.