UAE Family Visa Guide: How a Single Mother Can Sponsor Her Child

In the UAE, both mothers and fathers are legally eligible to sponsor their children under a residence visa, offering equal opportunity for parental sponsorship. For single mothers residing in the UAE, whether divorced, widowed, or unmarried, there is a clear and legal path to sponsor their child’s UAE residency visa, provided they meet specific conditions and submit the required documents. This comprehensive guide outlines how a single mother can sponsor her children in Dubai, what documents are needed, the application process, and legal requirements, including attestation and translations. Our experts at Provisa UAE are here to assist you with document clearance, Emirates ID applications, and Amer centre procedures, making the process smooth.

Eligibility Criteria for Single Mothers to Sponsor Children

A single mother can apply for her child’s UAE family visa if she meets the following conditions:

• Holds a valid UAE residency visa and is employed in the UAE.
• Earns a minimum monthly salary of AED 4,000, or AED 3,500 if accommodation is provided by the employer.
• Provides valid documentation proving legal custody or guardianship of the child.

Required Documents for Sponsorship

Here’s a detailed checklist of the mandatory documents:

General Documents:

• Visa Application Form: Fill online or through an approved Amer Centre or ICP portal.
• Emirates ID application for the child through the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship.
• Passport copies of mother and children.
• Copy of mother’s Emirates ID.
• Recent passport-size photo of the child (white background).
• Medical fitness test report (for children above 18 years).
• Tenancy contract, attested through Ejari system (RERA).
• Bank statement (last 3 months) – must be stamped by the bank. Online printouts are not accepted.
• Salary certificate from the employer showing the mother's monthly income.
• AED 2,500 security deposit per child (refundable after visa cancellation).

Specific to Custody/Guardianship:

If the mother is divorced or single, she must provide one of the following:

1. Court-issued child custody verdict:

• Attested by the **UAE Embassy** in the home country.
• Further attested by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA).
• Translated into Arabic by a certified translator (contact a local legal translation service or Amer Centre).

1. Certificate from local authority or child welfare agency confirming sole custody or guardianship.
2. Affidavit from your consulate/embassy in the UAE confirming you are the legal guardian.
3. No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the child’s biological father (in Arabic):

• If the father is inside the UAE, it should be attested by the Dubai Court or Notary Public.
• If the father is outside the UAE, the NOC must be attested by the UAE Embassy abroad and MoFA in the UAE.
• Translation into Arabic is required if the original is in another language.

Special Circumstances and Guidelines

When is an NOC from the father required?

• If the father is deceased, absent, or not involved, an NOC may not be necessary.
• If the child is born out of wedlock, ensure the birth certificate lists the mother as the sole guardian.
• If the father is alive and has legal guardianship, an NOC is mandatory.
• A lack of NOC may result in the father requesting a travel ban for the child.

Application Process in Dubai

1. Submit the Application

Applications can be submitted to:

• GDRFA - Dubai Immigration for Dubai residents
• ICP - Federal Authority for other emirates

Or visit your nearest Amer Centre or authorized typing centre.

1. Medical Fitness Test

Required for children 18+ years. The test includes:

• Blood test
• Chest X-ray (to check for infectious diseases)

Test must be conducted at a Dubai Health Authority (DHA) approved center.

1. Emirates ID Processing

Once the visa is approved, apply for the child’s Emirates ID, which includes:

• Biometric scan (if child is above a certain age)
• Fingerprint and photo

1. Visa Issuance

After all approvals and clearances, the residence visa will be stamped on the child’s passport, officially making them a UAE resident under your sponsorship.

Fast-Track Support from Amer247 & SmartVisa Hub

At PROVISAUAE - UAE, in partnership with **Amer247**, we offer:

• 24/7 Amer Centre services
• Visa application guidance for family sponsorship, Emirates ID, Ejari registration, and more
• Doorstep document pick-up & drop-off
• Services available on Fridays and public holidays
• Trained visa consultants to help with custody-related documents, attestation, and MoFA procedures

Official sources: UAE Government Portal · GDRFA Dubai