How to Issue a Visa for My Wife in Abu Dhabi

Hey there! I’ve been typing away at a unified typing service center in Al Shawamekh, Abu Dhabi, and let me tell you, one of the most common requests we get is, “How do I get a visa for my wife?” It’s a process that sounds daunting at first, but once you break it down, it’s pretty straightforward. I’ve helped countless people navigate this, so I’m here to walk you through the steps as if you’re sitting across from me at my desk. Let’s get started!

Step 1: Make Sure You Meet the Salary Requirement

First things first, you need to have a job contract that shows a minimum salary of AED 4,000 per month. This is non-negotiable, as it proves you can financially support your wife as her sponsor. If your salary is lower than this, you’ll need to sort that out before moving forward. Got the contract? Great, let’s move on.

Step 2: Open a File for the Visa Process

Here in Abu Dhabi, the visa process starts with opening a file for your wife’s residency application. You’ll need to visit a typing center like ours or an Tasheel center to get this done. We’ll help you fill out the necessary forms and make sure everything is in order. This step is basically setting up the groundwork for the visa application, so don’t skip it!

Required Documents

1. Your Passport copy
2. Emirates ID
3. Salary certificate (Arabic)

Step 3: Apply for the Residence Visa

Once the file is open, it’s time to apply for the actual visa. This is where things get a bit document-heavy, but don’t worry—I’ll list everything you need. The visa application is submitted through the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP). We can type up the application for you and guide you on where to submit it.

Documents You’ll Need

Here’s the checklist of documents you’ll need to gather. Make sure you have everything to avoid delays:

• For Your Wife:

  • Valid passport (Scanned copy)

  • 1 Passport-sized photo (Soft copy)

  • Visit visa (if she’s already in the UAE)

  • Marriage certificate (attested by the UAE Embassy in your home country and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the UAE, plus an Arabic translation)

• For You (the Sponsor):

  • Valid passport (original or Soft copy)

  • Emirates ID (original or Soft copy)

  • Salary certificate (in Arabic, issued by your employer)

  • Job contract (if you work in the private sector, it should reflect your AED 4,000+ salary)

  • Tawtheeq (tenancy contract registered with the Abu Dhabi Municipality)

Pro tip: Double-check that all attestations and translations are done correctly. Missing stamps or incorrect translations can cause headaches later.

Start here : apply for visa for your wife

Step 4: Wait for Visa Approval

After submitting the application, it usually takes a few days to a week for approval, depending on how busy the authorities are. Once approved, your wife will receive an entry permit (if she’s outside the UAE) or a status change (if she’s already in the country). If she’s outside, she’ll need to enter the UAE within 2 months of the visa issuance.

Step 5: Medical Checkup

Once your wife is in the UAE, the next step is to get her medical fitness test done. This is mandatory for all residence visa applicants. No need to book an appointment at a government-approved medical center, like SEHA or a private clinic authorized for visa medicals. Direct you can go the nearest visa screening center then do the medical test. Results usually come back within a day and if all is clear, you’re good to proceed.

Step 6: Get Health Insurance

Within 14 days of the entry or change status, you need to arrange health insurance for your wife. Abu Dhabi mandates health insurance for all residents, so shop around for a plan that fits your budget. Most insurance providers offer packages specifically for visa holders, and we can point you to some trusted ones if you’re unsure.

Step 7: Apply for Emirates ID and Residence Visa Stamping

This is the final stretch! Within 60 days of your wife’s entry (or status change), you need to apply for her Emirates ID and get her residence visa stamped. Here’s how it works:

• Emirates ID: Book an appointment at an ICP center or an authorized typing center. You’ll need to submit biometric data (fingerprints). The ID usually arrives within a week or two.

• Residence Visa Stamping: This is done at the same time as the Emirates ID application. Visas are not stamped in passports now. A copy can be obtained through the ICP app. Officially making her a UAE resident.

A Few Tips from the Typing Desk

• Start early: Don’t wait until the last minute for any of these steps, especially the 60-day deadline for Emirates ID and visa stamping.

• Keep copies: Always have photocopies of all documents handy. You’ll thank me later.

• Ask for help: If you’re confused, pop into a typing center or Amer center. We deal with this stuff every day and can spot mistakes before they become problems.

• Check updates: Visa rules can change, so double-check with the ICP website or call their helpline (600-522-222) for the latest requirements.

Wrapping Up

Bringing your wife to Abu Dhabi is a big step, and I know the visa process can feel overwhelming. But with the right documents and a bit of patience, you’ll have her by your side in no time. If you’re in Abu Dhabi, swing by our typing center, and we’ll take care of the paperwork for you. Got questions? Drop them below, and I’ll do my best to help. Good luck, and welcome to the UAE, future residents!