UAE Visa Sponsorship After Divorce (2025): What Expat Women Need to Know

Divorce brings not only emotional and financial challenges but also complex immigration implications, especially for expatriate women living in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). One of the most frequently asked questions is whether a woman can continue to stay in the UAE under her husband’s visa after the dissolution of marriage.

This article explains the UAE’s legal position on visa sponsorship after divorce, the available transition options, the rights and the procedures women should be aware.

What does the UAE law say in this regards?

The UAE’s visa system is governed by Cabinet Resolution No. 65 of 2022, which introduced a compassionate provision for divorced women and widows:

  1. One-year visa extension: Women sponsored by their husbands may apply for a one-time, non-renewable extension of their residency visa for up to 12 months following divorce or death, provided the sponsorship was valid during the time of their divorce.
  2. Children included: The extension also applies to the children who were under the father’s sponsorship at the time of divorce.
  3. No need for new sponsor: During this period, the woman does not need to transfer sponsorship to an employer or family member.

This legal grace period has been brought about by the government to offer breathing room,  allowing time to secure employment, arrange new sponsorship, or make informed decisions about her future residency.

Can an Ex-Husband Continue Sponsoring His Ex-Wife?

Under UAE immigration law, family sponsorship is contingent on marital status. Once a marriage is legally dissolved:

  1. The husband’s sponsorship of his ex-wife is automatically invalidated.
  2. The wife’s visa is subject to cancellation, followed by a 30-day grace period to exit or change status.
  3. Continued sponsorship by an ex-husband in the normal course, is not legally permitted, except under rare humanitarian or court-sanctioned exceptions.
Sponsoring Children After Divorce

If the woman retains custody, she may apply to sponsor her children, provided she meets the following:

  1. Minimum salary: AED 4,000 (or AED 3,000 + accommodation)
  2. Proof of custody: Court-issued custody documents
  3. Stable income: Evidence of employment or financial support

If the father retains custody, he typically continues sponsorship unless otherwise agreed.

Grace Period & Practical Tips

After divorce, the woman’s visa is cancelled, triggering a 30-day grace period. During this time, she should:

  1. Apply for the one-year extension (if eligible)
  2. Update Emirates ID, banking, and utility records
  3. Secure health insurance under new sponsorship
  4. Renew driving license and other residency-linked documents
Need Help With Your Visa After Divorce?

Whether you have just divorced your partner or planning ahead, we’re here to guide you. Book an appointment with Ayesha Aldhaheri Advocates and Legal Consultants and our family law team today to help navigate through this process.