In a significant update, Muslim residents in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) can now sponsor two wives at the same time, provided they meet certain conditions. This update comes from the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security, as reported by Al Khaleej newspaper.
Simultaneous Sponsorship of Two Wives
The Digital Government of the UAE has outlined that Muslim residents can obtain a residence visa for two wives and their children if they meet the requirements. A key condition is that there must be a marriage contract in Arabic, or translated into Arabic by a sworn translator, which is duly certified.
Sponsoring Children
The UAE legislation also allows a father to sponsor his unmarried daughters of any age. For sons, sponsorship by the father is only permitted until they reach 25. Exceptions apply to sons continuing their studies beyond this age.
For newborns, a residence permit must be obtained within 120 days of birth to avoid penalties. A resident may also sponsor his wife’s children from a previous marriage, subject to certain Federal Authority requirements, including consent from the biological father and a security deposit.
Documents Required
The Federal Authority has outlined eight necessary documents for sponsoring wives and children. These include an application for a residence visa, passport photos of the sponsor and the sponsored, original certificate of medical fitness for the wife and children above 18, a copy of the husband’s employment or company contract, a valid work visa for the sponsor, a certificate of the husband’s salary, and an attested tenancy contract.
Consequences of Non-compliance
Family residence permits are linked to the residence permit of the sponsor or head of the family. If the sponsor’s residence permit is cancelled, the family members’ permits must also be cancelled. Family members are then given a six-month period to either obtain a new residence visa or leave the country. Fines are imposed if the family members’ residence visa is not renewed or cancelled.
In Summary:
- The UAE now allows Muslim residents to sponsor two wives simultaneously.
- Fathers can sponsor their unmarried daughters of any age and sons until they reach 25.
- Newborns must get a residence permit within 120 days of birth.
- Family residence permits are linked to the residence permit of the sponsor.
- A fine is imposed if family members’ residence visa is not renewed or cancelled.
This development marks a significant shift in the UAE’s residence permit regulations, potentially providing more flexibility and options for families living in the country.
