The United Arab Emirates government has confirmed that foreign residents can sponsor their children for residency permits until they reach 25 years of age. This update is part of federal regulations governing the entry and residence of foreigners in the country.

Residency Sponsorship Provisions

  • Foreign residents, both male and female, may sponsor their spouse, sons, and daughters under 25 years old.
  • Unmarried daughters can be sponsored regardless of their age.
  • Children with special needs are eligible for residency sponsorship without any age limit, subject to guidelines from the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICA).

Implications for Expatriate Families

This policy offers significant relief to expatriate families, including Kenyans and other Africans living in the UAE, by enabling them to keep their children on residency permits without requiring separate work or student visas until the age limit is reached.

The inclusion of provisions for unmarried daughters and children with special needs highlights the UAE's flexible approach to family residency, accommodating dependents who may not yet be financially independent.