Family sponsorship of parents — what is the income threshold and which proof works?

Under Federal Decree-Law 6 of 1973 (Entry and Residence of Foreigners, as amended) and ICP (Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security) circulars, UAE residents may sponsor parents if they meet minimum salary thresholds—typically AED 20,000 or AED 25,000 total monthly salary depending on the emirate and whether you sponsor one or both parents. Your AED 27,000 total package likely qualifies, but **basic salary alone (AED 18,000) may fall short** if ICP applies the basic-only rule in your emirate. 1. **Verify the current threshold** with ICP's Amer centre or typing centre in your emirate—Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah sometimes differ on whether housing allowance counts. 2. **Gather documents**: attested salary certificate on company letterhead stating total remuneration, six months' bank statements, tenancy contract (Ejari in Dubai), passport copies, birth certificates proving parentage, and medical fitness certificates for your parents. 3. **Apply through ICP's online portal or approved typing centre**—submit the sponsorship application, pay fees (typically AED 3,000–5,000 per parent including deposits), and await approval before your parents enter on entry permits. If your basic alone is assessed and falls short, explore whether your employer can restructure your contract or whether you hold a professional category that enjoys relaxed thresholds.