UAE Promotes Friend or Relative Visa for Family Reunification and Community Ties

The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security has called on UAE citizens and residents to take advantage of the Friend or Relative Visa, a service designed to enhance family reunification and strengthen community ties.

Available through the authority’s website and smart application, the visa offers flexible options, including single or multiple-entry permits, with stays ranging from 30 to 90 days. The visa is valid for entry up to 60 days and can be extended during the stay.

Applicants can access the service by logging in with their digital identity, selecting the preferred visa type and duration, and submitting their application after verifying the accuracy of their information.

To qualify, applicants must meet specific requirements, including:

A valid passport with more than six months of validity.
A travel ticket and valid health insurance.
Proof of being a friend or relative of a UAE citizen or a first or second-degree relative of a foreign resident.
Additionally, foreign residents inviting visitors must hold a first or second-level job classification as recognized by the authority.

Facilitating Family and Community Ties

Maj-Gen Suhail Saeed Al Khaili, director-general of the authority, emphasized the initiative’s goal of strengthening family and social connections. “This service facilitates the reunification of families and friends, contributing to the overall quality of life in the UAE community,” he said.

Al Khaili also noted the broader benefits of the initiative, which allows residents to invite loved ones to experience the UAE’s lifestyle and investment opportunities.

However, he cautioned visitors and sponsors to adhere to the visa’s specified duration, warning that administrative penalties will be imposed for overstaying or failure to leave the country within the permitted timeframe.

Enhancing the Visitor Experience

This initiative reflects the UAE’s commitment to creating a welcoming and supportive environment for visitors while facilitating smoother processes for family reunification. By leveraging digital platforms, the Friend or Relative Visa aims to provide a seamless application experience, ensuring that visitors can explore the UAE’s offerings while strengthening personal and family bonds.

The service is part of the UAE’s broader efforts to enhance its appeal as a destination for tourism, investment, and cultural exchange, while maintaining clear regulations to manage immigration effectively.