(Image source from: Siasat)

Indian family members of those working in the United Arab Emirates will now be able to get an "expat visa" if the working relative fulfills income criteria, according to new visa guidelines announced by the UAE.

The UAE Cabinet adopted a decision to amend provisions of the resolution on sponsoring of foreign workers to their families in the country, WAM reported.

The amended provisions now indicate income as a need for sponsoring family members, as opposed to the previously listed professions which permitted workers to sponsor their families. The amendment is in line with international developments and accordance with best practices, according to a statement by the General Secretariat of the Cabinet.

"The decision aims at enhancing family stability of foreign workers and social cohesion, as well as attracting highly skilled workers while maintaining a healthy balance between professional and personal life," the statement continued.

The statement further explained that the Cabinet decision, called on relevant government entities to carry out studies to assess and enhance the services provided to residents, including aspects of health and education, and encourage the active participation of their family member in the job market as an alternative to recruiting new workers from abroad, within the existing policies and regulations.

By Sowmya Sangam