United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a highly sought-after destination for people who want to settle down in the Middle East. The country is known for its modern infrastructure, high standard of living, and tax-free income. Acquiring citizenship in the UAE by marriage is fairly straightforward. This blog will discuss the process of obtaining UAE citizenship through marriage and what you need to know.
UAE Citizenship by Marriage
In the UAE, citizenship follows the principle of Jus Sanguinis, meaning it is primarily determined by parental lineage rather than the place of birth. This means that simply being born within the UAE does not automatically grant citizenship. However, expatriates have the opportunity to acquire UAE citizenship by meeting specific criteria.
There are various pathways to obtaining Emirati citizenship, one of which is through marriage. However, it’s important to understand that the regulations for citizenship differ for women and men in the UAE. For women marrying Emirati citizens, it’s crucial to note that marriage alone does not automatically grant Emirati citizenship.
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Requirements for UAE Citizenship by Marriage
When it comes to citizenship through marriage in the UAE, there are specific requirements to be aware of, particularly for non-Emirati women marrying Emirati men:
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Marriage Recognition: For non-Emirati women married to Emirati men, their marriage must be officially recognized under UAE marriage law.
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Waiting Period with Children: If the couple has children, a non-Emirati woman can become eligible for a UAE passport after a period of seven years from the date of marriage.
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Extended Waiting Period without Children: In cases where the couple does not have children, the waiting period for a non-Emirati woman to become eligible for a UAE passport extends to ten years from the date of marriage.
It’s essential to understand and fulfill these requirements to navigate the process of seeking citizenship through marriage in the UAE effectively.
Process for UAE Citizenship by Marriage
Here’s a concise overview of the steps involved in acquiring citizenship through marriage in the UAE:
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Marriage Eligibility:
- Legally marry an Emirati citizen who meets specific criteria, including possessing a commendable reputation and a clean criminal record, and being a legal resident of the UAE.
- If you have a child with your Emirati spouse, you become eligible for citizenship after seven years. The waiting period extends to ten years if you do not have children.
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Application Submission:
- Apply for naturalization through designated channels such as the Rulers’ and Crown Princes’ Courts, Offices of the Executive Councils, or the Cabinet.
- Your application should be supported by nominations from federal entities.
- Provide essential documents, including a copy of your marriage certificate, your spouse’s passport, your residence visa, and a sponsorship letter from your spouse.
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Pledge of Allegiance:
- Take an oath of allegiance and loyalty to the UAE, committing to abide by its laws.
- Keep UAE government authorities informed about any changes in your citizenship status, including acquiring or losing other citizenships.
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Renunciation and Approval:
- Note that the UAE does not recognize dual citizenship.
- If you intend to become an Emirati citizen, you must renounce your original citizenship.
- Your application awaits endorsement from the Rulers’ and Crown Princes’ Courts, Offices of the Executive Councils, and the Cabinet.
- You have the option to retain your original nationality if desired.
Please keep in mind that the process may vary slightly depending on individual circumstances and governmental regulations. For further insights into alternative paths for obtaining UAE citizenship, you can explore dedicated resources or articles available on the topic.
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Can Emirati Woman Marry a Foreigner?
Yes, an Emirati woman can marry a foreigner. In the United Arab Emirates (UAE), there are no restrictions on who Emirati citizens can marry, as long as it legally recognized the marriage according to the laws of the UAE and the country of origin of the non-Emirati spouse. However, sometimes, specific requirements may need to be met, such as obtaining a marriage license or completing pre-marital medical examinations.
It is important to note that if an Emirati woman marries a foreigner, the non-Emirati spouse may be eligible to apply for residency in the UAE. However, this process can be complex and requires a thorough understanding of the immigration laws and regulations of the UAE. In some cases, the non-Emirati spouse may need to provide additional documentation or undergo additional screenings before being granted residency.
Overall, while an Emirati woman is free to marry a foreigner, it is important to carefully consider such a union’s potential implications and requirements. It may be a good idea to seek the advice of a lawyer or immigration specialist to ensure that you are fully informed and prepared for the process.
Can Foreigners Get Married in UAE?
Yes, foreigners can get married in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The UAE recognizes both civil and religious marriages, and the process for getting married in the country depends on the type of marriage you choose.
Both partners must be present in the UAE and obtain a marriage license from the Department of Justice for a civil marriage. The requirements for obtaining a marriage license may vary depending on the nationality of the partners, but typically include proof of identity, proof of residency, and sometimes a certificate of no impediment to marriage.
For a religious marriage, the requirements will vary depending on the religion of the partners. For example, Muslim couples may need a marriage certificate from a mosque or Islamic center, while Christian couples may need a marriage certificate from a church.
It is important to note that the UAE has specific requirements for interracial and interfaith marriages, and the process may be more complicated in these cases. It may be a good idea to seek the advice of a local lawyer or a marriage counselor to ensure that you are fully informed and prepared for the process.
Regardless of the type of marriage, it is also important to consider the immigration implications of getting married in the UAE. Depending on the nationality of the partners, one spouse may need to apply for a residency visa in order to live in the country with their partner.
Conclusion
Getting UAE citizenship by marriage is a straightforward process that can provide you with a number of benefits. By following the steps outlined in this blog, you can easily transition to life as a UAE citizen. Whether you are looking to settle down in the country permanently or enjoy the benefits of being a citizen, obtaining UAE citizenship through marriage is a great option to consider.
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