The UAE Student Visa is a type of residence visa issued to international students who want to study at a university or college in the UAE. It is sponsored either by the educational institution where the student is enrolled or by a parent who is a UAE resident.
This visa is usually valid for one year and can be renewed annually until the student finishes their studies.
To qualify for a UAE Student Visa, you must:
Be accepted into a recognized university or college in the UAE.
Have an official admission letter from the institution.
Undergo a medical fitness test in the UAE.
Have a valid passport (with at least 6 months validity).
Pass a security/background check.
Provide proof of financial ability to cover tuition and living expenses (may be required by some institutions).
Special category: Outstanding students may qualify for a 5-year student visa if they meet academic excellence criteria (for example, a minimum of 95% in secondary school or a GPA of at least 3.75 in university).
Legal right to live in the UAE while pursuing education.
Access to high-quality universities in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and other emirates, many with international recognition.
Part-time work opportunities may be available with approval, allowing students to gain experience.
Students can sponsor family members in certain cases (if financially eligible).
Exceptional students may qualify for a long-term 5-year visa, offering stability during their studies.
Aisha, from Kenya, is accepted into a bachelor’s program in Abu Dhabi. Her university sponsors her student visa, and she renews it each year until graduation.
Rohan, from India, earns top grades in high school and qualifies for a 5-year long-term student visa, reducing the need for annual renewals.
Typically 1 year, renewable annually. Outstanding students may get a 5-year visa.
Usually the university or college. If your parent is a UAE resident, they may sponsor you instead.
Yes, part-time work is possible with official permission, but your studies must remain your main focus.
Students themselves normally cannot sponsor family unless they meet income requirements. Parents who are UAE residents can sponsor dependent children.
Not directly, but after graduation, students may switch to other visas, such as a work visa or, for high achievers, a Golden Visa.