Visit Visa (sponsored by relative or host/company)
People visiting family, friends or a host company in the UAE on a sponsored short stay.
The Visit Visa (sponsored by relative or host/company) is a UAE visitor & short stay visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~AED 300-600 (incl. VAT and service)) and processing time (~2-5 working days), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Visit Visa (sponsored by relative or host/company) is for
People visiting family, friends or a host company in the UAE on a sponsored short stay.
A visit visa is non-residence and gives no path to long-term residence or citizenship.
Visit Visa (sponsored by relative or host/company) - eligibility criteria
- UAE resident relative, friend or company acting as sponsor
- Sponsor meets minimum salary/relationship requirements
- Valid passport with 6+ months validity
- Proof of relationship or invitation where required
- Refundable security deposit may apply
Visit Visa (sponsored by relative or host/company) cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Visit Visa (sponsored by relative or host/company) (United Arab Emirates) is ~AED 300-600 (incl. VAT and service), with an indicative processing time of ~2-5 working days. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at UAE Government (u.ae).
| Type | Short stay |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Online (ICP/GDRFA) by the UAE resident or company sponsor |
| Length of stay | 30, 60 or 90 days depending on type |
| Work rights | No work permitted |
| Study rights | No formal study |
| Government fee | ~AED 300-600 (incl. VAT and service) |
| Processing time | ~2-5 working days |
| Route to PR | A visit visa is non-residence and gives no path to long-term residence or citizenship. |
Pathway & next steps
A visit visa is non-residence and gives no path to long-term residence or citizenship.
Many applicants also compare Tourist 30 · Tourist Visa (30 days, single entry), Family Spouse · Family Residence Visa - Spouse, Jobseeker · Job Exploration / Jobseeker Visit Visa. Run a free VisaChief check to see which UAE route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Visit Visa (sponsored by relative or host/company) pitfalls we fix
Visit Visa (sponsored by relative or host/company) - frequently asked questions
How much does the Visit Visa (sponsored by relative or host/company) cost?
The Visit Visa (sponsored by relative or host/company) government fee is ~AED 300-600 (incl. VAT and service). Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at UAE Government (u.ae) before applying.
How long does the Visit Visa (sponsored by relative or host/company) take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~2-5 working days. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Visit Visa (sponsored by relative or host/company) lead to permanent residence?
A visit visa is non-residence and gives no path to long-term residence or citizenship.
Can I work on the Visit Visa (sponsored by relative or host/company)?
Work rights: No work permitted.
Who can apply for the Visit Visa (sponsored by relative or host/company)?
People visiting family, friends or a host company in the UAE on a sponsored short stay.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official United Arab Emirates government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- UAE Government (u.ae) - official United Arab Emirates immigration authority