How to Transfer Your Family Visa to a New Employer in the UAE
The UAE is home to a vibrant expatriate community, and many people come to the country with their families in tow. One of the most common ways expatriates bring their families to the UAE is through a family visa, which allows them to sponsor their spouses, children, and in some cases, their parents or domestic helpers. However, what happens if an expatriate decides to change employers while they are in the UAE? The good news is that it is possible to transfer your family visa to a new employer. While this process can seem complicated, understanding the steps involved will ensure a smooth and efficient transition. Below, we’ll guide you through the necessary steps to transfer your family visa to a new employer in the UAE. Family Visa Transfer Process In the UAE, the family visa is tied to the primary visa holder—the sponsor (typically the father or husband). If the sponsor changes employers, they are still the legal sponsor of their family members. However, when the sponsor moves to a new employer, the family visa needs to be transferred or amended to reflect the sponsor’s new employment status. This process involves several steps, including applying for a new residency permit for the sponsor, updating the sponsor’s details with the UAE authorities, and adjusting the family members’ visa status accordingly. Check Eligibility for Visa Transfer Before initiating the transfer, the first thing to do is ensure that the new employer is eligible to sponsor your family. In the UAE, sponsorship eligibility is based on the salary and employment status of the sponsor. Typically, a sponsor must have a minimum monthly salary, which can vary depending on the emirate, to be eligible to sponsor their family. For example: Additionally, you should confirm with your new employer if they are willing to continue sponsoring your family visa or if the visa transfer will need to be done independently by you. Complete the Sponsor’s Employment and Residency Process When you switch employers, the first step is to complete the residency and labor formalities with your new employer. This includes: Once the new employment visa is approved, you will have the legal status to sponsor your family members under the new visa. Update Family Visa Details After obtaining your new residency status, you can proceed to update the details of your family members’ visas. The steps for transferring a family visa to a new employer are as follows: Complete Medical and Emirates ID Procedures Once the new family visas are approved, your family members will need to undergo medical testing, if required. This is generally required for all expatriates entering or remaining in the UAE. Additionally, you’ll need to apply for new Emirates IDs for your family members, as their previous IDs will be canceled with the old visa. Once the medical exams are cleared and the Emirates IDs are processed, your family will receive their new residency permits and identification documents, making them officially registered under your new employer’s sponsorship. 6. Final Steps Once your family visa transfer is complete, make sure to: Conclusion Transferring your family visa to a new employer in the UAE is entirely possible, but it requires careful planning and attention to detail. By ensuring your eligibility with the new employer and completing the necessary employment visa process, you can ensure a smooth transition. If you’re unsure about the specific requirements or need assistance with the family visa transfer, it’s highly recommended to consult with Insight 360 Corporate Consultants. Our experts can guide you through the process, helping you avoid delays or complications. With proper preparation and expert guidance from Insight 360, transferring your family visa to a new employer in the UAE is a manageable and seamless process, ensuring your family can continue to live with you without any disruption.