Male family members can no longer be sponsored by their father once they reach the age of 18 and so must obtain their own residency visa to remain in the UAE. Jaime Puebla / The National
Male family members can no longer be sponsored by their father once they reach the age of 18 and so must obtain their own residency visa to remain in the UAE. Jaime Puebla / The National
Male family members can no longer be sponsored by their father once they reach the age of 18 and so must obtain their own residency visa to remain in the UAE. Jaime Puebla / The National
Male family members can no longer be sponsored by their father once they reach the age of 18 and so must obtain their own residency visa to remain in the UAE. Jaime Puebla / The National

What are the UAE residency visa requirements when my children turn 18 years old?


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We moved to Abu Dhabi with our two teenagers last year, but I have since heard that there may be a problem with them staying here with us once they reach the age of 18 in a few years' time. All being well we intend to stay here for up to 10 years. Although the eldest is now just 15, I would like to know what the situation is so that we can plan for when she reaches age 18. My son is 13. What are the options for older teenage children? EM, Abu Dhabi

Under current legislation unmarried daughters may be sponsored by their father no matter their age, but this is not the case for sons. They can no longer be sponsored by their father once they reach the age of 18 and so must obtain their own residency visa to remain in the UAE. They can do this either by finding permanent employment and being sponsored by their employer, or by remaining in education and obtaining a student visa via their college or university.

Keren Bobker is an independent financial adviser with Holborn Assets in Dubai, with over 20 years experience. Contact her at keren@holbornassets.com. Follow her on Twitter at @FinancialUAE

The advice provided in our columns does not constitute legal advice and is provided for information only. Readers are encouraged to seek appropriate independent legal advice.

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