Golden Visa · Family Residency
UAE Golden Visa for Families
Your Golden Visa extends to your spouse, children of all ages, and in many cases your parents. Here is exactly how.
One of the most significant advantages of the UAE Golden Visa over standard employment-based residencies is its comprehensive family coverage. As a Golden Visa holder through Abu Dhabi property, you can sponsor your spouse and all dependent children regardless of age — including sons over 18 and daughters who are still unmarried. Under normal UAE residency rules, male children over 18 must find independent visas. The Golden Visa removes this restriction entirely. This makes it particularly valuable for families who want to relocate or maintain UAE residency together, and for parents planning their children's university years in the UAE.
Spouse Coverage
Your spouse is automatically eligible as a dependent under your Golden Visa. The spousal visa is processed simultaneously with or shortly after the primary Golden Visa application. There is no requirement for your spouse to be employed, to invest independently, or to meet any separate income threshold. The spousal visa carries the same 10-year term as the primary holder's visa and renews alongside it.
Children — All Ages, No Cap
Golden Visa dependents include all unmarried dependent children regardless of age. This is the most significant departure from standard UAE sponsorship rules, where male children over 18 are typically ineligible for dependent visas. Under the Golden Visa: • Sons and daughters of any age are included provided they are unmarried • University students studying abroad can maintain UAE residency through the Golden Visa • Children with determination (special needs) are covered regardless of age or marital status • There is no maximum number of children — all qualifying dependents are included
Parents
Parents of a Golden Visa holder can be sponsored as residents, but they do not qualify as 'dependents' under the Golden Visa itself — they require a standard family sponsorship visa, which Golden Visa holders are permitted to issue. The parent sponsorship requires a minimum monthly income threshold (typically AED 20,000+) or proof of sufficient savings. Alternatively, parents may qualify for their own Golden Visa if they independently purchase AED 2M+ in qualifying property.
Domestic Staff
As a Golden Visa holder and UAE resident, you are eligible to sponsor domestic employees — housemaids, drivers, nannies, cooks, and gardeners — under the standard domestic worker visa system. Abu Dhabi allows up to 5 domestic workers for a household, with additional permits available for larger families or properties. Domestic worker visas are 2-year renewable and require medical testing and Ministry of Human Resources registration.
If a Child Marries
Upon marriage, a previously covered adult child is removed from the primary holder's Golden Visa. At that point, the married child's spouse is the appropriate sponsor. If the married child independently owns AED 2M+ in qualifying property, they can transition to their own Golden Visa. Planning for this transition is advisable for families where adult children are approaching marriage age during the visa term.
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Guides
AD Residences · Abu Dhabi
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Speak with a AD Residences advisor. Private briefings available by appointment.