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Student Visa
VisasUnited Arab EmiratesStudent Visa
United Arab EmiratesUnited Arab Emirates•Asia
Open

Student Visa

Study Dependents Allowed

At a Glance

Processing Time

14-21 days

Application Fee

Free

Stay Duration

1 year

Renewable

Yes

Job Offer

Not Required

Dependents

Allowed

PR Pathway

No

Remote Work

Not Required

Official Information
United Arab Emirates flag

Living in United Arab Emirates

Cost of Living
20% cheaper than United States
Avg SalaryAED 140,400
Quality of Life
176/200
Full Country Guide

Overview

Full-time study at a UAE-registered institution. Sponsored by the educational institution.

The UAE Student Visa is a residence permit governed by federal immigration laws and executive regulations, including the Federal Decree-Law on Entry and Residence of Foreigners. It is designed to support the UAE's growing reputation as a regional educational hub by providing a clear legal pathway for international students. This visa fills the gap for non-national students who need a dedicated legal status to reside in the country solely for the purpose of pursuing full-time academic studies at accredited institutions, ensuring they remain compliant while enrolled.

This visa is for international students who have been accepted into a UAE-licensed university, college, or educational institution. The institution acts as the sponsor, which is a distinctive feature that links the student's legal residency directly to their academic enrollment. It is intended for those pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate programs, providing them with legal residency for the duration of their studies, typically issued on a one-year renewable basis, provided they maintain their status as full-time students.

Stay & Extensions

Initial grant1 year

Conversion Paths

Visas you can typically switch to from this status.

Employment Visa
United Arab Emirates flagUnited Arab Emirates

Employment Visa

Validity3 years
Processing7-20 days
View Visa Details
Golden Visa (5/10 Year)
United Arab Emirates flagUnited Arab Emirates

Golden Visa (5/10 Year)

Validity10 years
Processing2-5 days
View Visa Details
Green Visa
United Arab Emirates flagUnited Arab Emirates

Green Visa

Validity5 years
Processing1-3 months
View Visa Details

Requirements

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

Acceptance at registered institution

Institution sponsors visa

Medical fitness

KEY CRITERIA

Education

high_school or higher

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

Passport

Acceptance letter

Academic transcripts

Medical fitness

Photos

Advantages & Considerations

Key Benefits

  • Can work part-time
  • Graduate route available
  • Path to Skilled Worker

Worth Knowing

  • Limited work during term
  • Must leave or switch after course

Application Process

1

Get admission letter: Receive acceptance from accredited educational institution

2

Institution sponsors application: Educational establishment applies for student visa

3

Receive entry permit: Get entry permit for travel to UAE

4

Travel to UAE: Enter on student entry permit

5

Medical examination: Undergo health screening at UAE medical center

6

Apply for residence: Complete student residence visa application

7

Register with institution: Enroll in courses and activate student status

8

Receive residence visa: Get student residence visa in passport

Application Forms

Institution application—

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