Spouse vs. Dependent Visa: What’s the Difference?

When moving to or residing in the UAE, especially Dubai, it’s important to understand the differences between the types of visas available for family members. Two of the most commonly confused visa types are the Spouse Visa and the Dependent Visa. While they may seem similar, they have key distinctions in terms of eligibility, sponsorship, and application process.

In this article, we break down the major differences between Spouse Visa and Dependent Visa in the UAE to help you choose the right one for your loved ones.

1. What is a Spouse Visa?

A Spouse Visa is a type of residence visa that allows a husband or wife of a UAE resident or citizen to legally reside in the country. It is part of the broader family sponsorship category.

Who Can Apply?

A UAE resident (expat) can sponsor their spouse.
Both male and female residents can apply, provided they meet the salary and accommodation criteria.

Key Requirements

Valid marriage certificate (attested)
Minimum salary requirement (usually AED 4,000–AED 6,000)
Ejari (tenancy contract)
Recent utility bills and Emirates ID
Medical fitness test for the spouse

2. What is a Dependent Visa?

A Dependent Visa is a broader category that allows UAE residents to sponsor other family members, including:

Children (usually under 18 for boys, under 25 for girls)
Parents (with special conditions)
Stepchildren (with approval)
Spouse (in this context, the spouse visa is a type of dependent visa)

So, while a spouse visa falls under the dependent visa category, the term “dependent visa” is often used for children or parents, not the spouse.

3. Key Differences at a Glance

Feature	Spouse Visa	Dependent Visa
Purpose	For husband or wife	For children, parents, stepchildren
Age Limit	No age limit	Boys: up to 18 (or 25 if studying), Girls: no age limit (unmarried)
Documents Needed	Marriage certificate, spouse’s passport, salary proof	Birth certificate, passport, proof of relation
Salary Requirement	AED 4,000–6,000/month	Same (can vary slightly by case)
Medical Test Required	Yes (for adults)	Yes (if over 18)
Visa Duration	1–2 years, renewable	1–2 years, renewable

4. Can a Female Sponsor Her Family in Dubai?

Yes, female residents can now sponsor their husbands and children, as long as they meet the salary requirement (usually AED 10,000 or more) and other criteria. This is part of the UAE’s efforts to promote gender equality.

5. Renewal and Cancellation

Both visa types require:

Timely renewal before expiry
Cancellation when leaving the UAE or switching sponsors

Fines may apply for delays, so it’s essential to monitor visa validity through official portals.

Conclusion

Understanding the difference between Spouse Visas and Dependent Visas helps you navigate the UAE’s family sponsorship system with clarity. Whether you’re planning to bring your husband, wife, or children to Dubai, choosing the right visa ensures smooth legal residency for your loved ones.