Education Consultancy

How to Apply for UAE Student Visa ?

Why Study in the UAE?

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has become a global education hub, it hosts campuses of prestigious universities, state‑of‑the‑art facilities and a multicultural environment that attracts students from Asia, Africa, Europe and the Americas with campuses of world‑renowned universities in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Before you can take advantage of these opportunities, you will need to secure the UAE student visa (also called a UAE study visa or UAE student residence visa), which allows international students to reside in the country legally for their studies. This guide will explain how to apply for a UAE student visa, outline student visa UAE requirements, and answer common questions about costs, documents, processing times and updates.

UAE Student Visa | Residence visa for studying in the UAE

As a study‑abroad consultancy based in the UAE, we get many questions about the student visa process. This guide combines information from the UAE government, education authorities and recent (2024–25) updates to help prospective students and their families with the visa system. It also outlines strategies for obtaining long‑term study visas and highlights how our consultancy can support your journey.

Types of Student Visas and Sponsorship Options

Two main options exist: obtaining a student visa in Dubai or another emirate through sponsorship by an accredited university, or staying under a parent’s sponsorship. Expatriate residents can sponsor male children until age 25 and female children until marriage, so check the UAE student visa age limit if you plan to use this route. For those applying directly, most universities in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and the northern emirates offer assistance with your UAE student visa application form through their admissions or Student Affairs offices.

The UAE also issues long‑term student visas including the 5‑year student visa UAE and the golden visa for students for outstanding students who achieve 95 % in secondary school or a university GPA of at least 3.75. These visas allow graduates to remain in the country longer and pursue careers without switching immediately to a work visa.

Standard student visa (1‑year renewable)

Duration: 1 year; renewable annually upon proof of ongoing study.
Sponsor: university/college or a parent who is a UAE resident.
Eligibility: admission to an accredited UAE institution; fulfilment of general residence‑visa requirements.

Parent‑sponsored residence visa

Male students: expatriate residents can sponsor their male children up to age 25. Male students over 25 must obtain their own study visa but may continue under their parents’ sponsorship if they provide proof of attending a higher‑education course lasting at least one year.
Female students: expatriate residents may continue to sponsor their daughters regardless of age until they marry.

Long‑term study visas for outstanding students

The UAE encourages high‑achieving students by offering five‑year and ten‑year residency visas:

Five‑year student visa: Outstanding students who graduated from high school with a final grade of 95 % or higher or university students with a GPA of at least 3.75 may be eligible for a five‑year study visa.
Ten‑year visa (Golden Visa): Exceptional students may even qualify for a ten‑year residency visa enabling them to pursue postgraduate studies or employment opportunities after graduation. This is often referred to as the “Golden Visa” for students.
Benefits: These long‑term visas allow graduates to remain in the UAE to look for work; they also include family members.

Eligibility criteria for a UAE student visa

Meeting the eligibility requirements is crucial for obtaining a study visa. Universities will assist with visa applications, but students are responsible for providing accurate documents and demonstrating that they can support themselves financially.

Admission to a recognised university or college. Applicants must secure a letter of acceptance from an accredited institution. Without this letter, the application cannot proceed.
Proof of financial means. Applicants must show they can pay tuition and living expenses. Educations.com notes that institutions commonly request proof of funds for tuition and living costs as part of the visa file.
Valid passport. A passport must have at least six months’ validity and several blank pages.
Health insurance. Students must carry health insurance coverage during their stay; it is listed among the eligibility criteria.
Security clearance. Some applicants undergo security checks; candidates from certain countries may need additional clearance.
Medical fitness test. A mandatory medical fitness test is required once the student arrives in the UAE to ensure they are free of contagious diseases. This test typically costs AED 350–500.
Additional academic merit for long‑term visas. To qualify for the five‑year visa, high‑school students must score 95 % or above and university graduates must achieve a 3.75 GPA.

Documents required

The list of documents required for UAE student visa submission typically includes. The documentation requirements vary slightly by university, but most institutions request the following:

Documents	Notes
Application form	Completed and signed; usually provided by the university or filed online via the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) or the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP).
Passport (original and copies)	Must be valid for at least six months. Most universities ask for 2–4 photocopies.
Passport‑sized photographs	Colour photos with white background; universities may request 4–12 copies.
Admission (acceptance) letter	Official letter from the UAE educational institution.
Proof of tuition fee payment	Receipt showing tuition fees and visa fees have been paid.
Evidence of financial support	Bank statements or sponsorship letters providing sufficient funds for tuition and living expenses.
Proof of accommodation	Lease agreement, dormitory confirmation or letter of accommodation.
Academic transcripts	Recent transcripts or certificates; postgraduate applicants must include undergraduate degrees.
Health insurance policy	Proof of valid health insurance coverage.
Medical fitness test results	Blood tests and chest X‑ray performed in the UAE after arrival.
Sponsor’s documents (if applicable)	For parent‑sponsored visas: copies of the sponsor’s passport, residence permit, salary certificate and tenancy contract.

Tip: Check with your university’s international student office for any extra documents. For some nationalities, a security clearance certificate is required.

Step‑by‑step process to obtain a UAE student visa

Applying for a UAE student visa can seem complex, but it becomes manageable when broken into steps. The process summarised below draws from the UAE government portal, Visit Dubai, MSM Unify and other sources.

Step 1 – Secure admission

Choose a program and apply to an accredited university or college. Once accepted, the institution will issue an admission or offer letter—a necessary document for the visa application. Our consultancy partners with leading UAE universities and can help you find a program that suits your academic goals.

Step 2 – Prepare your documents

Gather all the documents listed above. Universities often require multiple passport copies and passport‑sized photos; ensure your passport meets the six‑month validity rule. Arrange translations or notarisation if your documents are not in English or Arabic.

Step 3 – Submit the application through your sponsor

Your sponsor—either the university or your resident parent—must submit the visa application to the UAE immigration authorities (GDRFA or ICP). According to Visit Dubai, Student Affairs offices facilitate the process and provide a checklist of requirements. The university collects your documents, fills in the online application form and submits the package to GDRFA/ICP.

For applications filed outside the UAE, your sponsor may first apply for an entry permit. Once approved, you can travel to the UAE.

Step 4 – Pay visa and processing fees

Visa fees vary by institution and program length. MSM Unify estimates the visa application fee between AED 3,000–5,000 and the medical test fee between AED 300–500. Health‑insurance premiums can range from AED 500–1,500 per year. Some universities offer installment plans for the visa fee.

Step 5 – Receive the entry permit and travel to the UAE

Once the application is approved, you will receive an e‑visa or entry permit. You can then book your flight and enter the UAE. Remember to carry copies of your offer letter, entry permit and accommodation details when travelling.

Step 6 – Complete the medical fitness test and biometrics

After arrival, students must visit an authorised medical centre to undergo blood tests and a chest X‑ray to confirm they are free of contagious diseases. The test results are submitted electronically to the immigration authorities. Students also provide biometric data (fingerprints and photos) for the Emirates ID.

Step 7 – Collect your Emirates ID and visa stamp

Once your medical results are cleared and fees paid, you will receive your Emirates ID card (mandatory for all residents) and have the residence visa stamped in your passport. This visa is typically valid for one year. Keep copies of both the ID and visa; they are required for opening bank accounts and accessing government services.

Step 8 – Renewal and extension

Your visa must be renewed annually by submitting an updated enrolment certificate and paying renewal fees. According to the UAE government portal, the visa can be renewed “upon proof of continuation of a study”u.ae. Universities typically notify students of renewal deadlines. Graduates may stay in the UAE for up to 12 months after graduation to explore employment opportunities.

Costs and financial considerations

Financial planning is a critical part of the study‑abroad journey. Below are typical cost components (values may vary by institution and emirate):

Expense	Typical cost (AED)	Notes
Visa application fee	3,000–5,000	Includes processing and issuance.
Medical fitness test	300–500	Required after arrival; includes blood test and chest X‑ray.
Health‑insurance premium	500–1,500 per year	Varies by coverage and insurer.
Emirates ID fee	100–200 (approx.)	Payable during biometrics appointment.
Tuition deposit (refundable)	1,500–3,000 (approx.)	Some universities require a security deposit.
Housing & living expenses	2,500–5,000 per month	Accommodation, food, transport and miscellaneous expenses (varies by city).

Working while studying

International students aged 18 or above are allowed to work part‑time with a permit. Many people search for part time work on student visa UAE or working in UAE as a student because internships can offset costs and bolster résumés. You must secure permission from your university and the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation; jobs are typically limited to 15–20 hours per week during term and full‑time during breaks.

Parent Sponsorship and Age Limits

If your parent is a UAE resident, they may sponsor you instead of the university. The student visa sponsor documents needed include the sponsor’s residence visa, salary certificate and tenancy contract. Note the UAE student visa age limit: male children can remain under parental sponsorship up to age 25, and female children until they marry. This arrangement can reduce fees but still requires you to pass the medical exam and register for Emirates ID for students.

Long‑Term Visas and New Rules (2025 Update)

New rules allow outstanding students to obtain the 5‑year student visa UAE or the outstanding student visa UAE. To qualify, high‑school students need a 95 % final mark and university students require a GPA of at least 3.75. Exceptional students may even receive a 10‑year golden visa. Another update allows graduates to stay in the UAE for up to 12 months after finishing their studies, giving them time to secure employment. If you’re researching the UAE student visa new rules 2025 or the latest updates on UAE student visa, be sure to check these merit‑based options.

Medical Requirements and Health Insurance

All applicants must undergo a medical test for the UAE student visa, often called a medical fitness test for UAE visa, after arriving in the country. The test includes blood work and a chest X‑ray. Failing the test (e.g., due to infectious diseases) will result in visa denial. Health insurance is mandatory; universities often arrange group coverage, but you can buy your own policy. Always carry proof of insurance when submitting your visa application.

Financial and Accommodation Proof

Showing adequate funds is one of the core financial requirements for a UAE student visa. This means bank statements, scholarship letters or sponsor letters that prove you can pay tuition and living expenses. You may also need to show a housing contract or dorm confirmation when proving study permit UAE compliance. Some institutions refund deposits only after you cancel the visa and present your exit stamp.

City‑Specific Costs and Tips

When calculating student visa Dubai cost, remember that Dubai is generally more expensive than Sharjah or Ajman. Abu Dhabi sits somewhere in between. If you plan to study and stay visa Dubai, budgeting for higher living expenses is crucial. Students researching study visa UAE fees for international students often compare universities in different emirates to find the best value.

After Graduation: Extensions and Careers

Many students worry about their status after finishing their programmes. The UAE student visa extension after graduation lets you stay for 12 months to look for a job. During this time you can switch to an employment visa if you find a position or, if you qualify for the outstanding‑student category, apply for a golden visa. Universities may also assist with job placement and host career fairs.

Updates and reforms (2024–25)

The UAE continually refines its immigration policies to attract talent and create a knowledge‑based economy:

Five‑year student visa for outstanding pupils: The UAE introduced a five‑year visa for students who achieve 95 % in high school or a GPA of 3.75 upon graduation. This visa can include family members and may be extended to a ten‑year Golden Visa.
Visa renewal flexibility: Students may stay for an additional 12 months after graduation to seek employment or transition to a work visa.
Part‑time work permits: Regulations permitting students to work part‑time during their studies have been streamlined.
Digital application channels: The GDRFA and ICP have improved e‑services, enabling universities to submit visa applications online.

Tips for a successful visa application

Start early. Begin your visa application as soon as you receive your offer letter. Processing can take 2–5 weeks.
Prepare accurate documents. Ensure that names, passport numbers and dates match across all forms. Missing or inconsistent documents can delay approval.
Maintain good academic standing. Universities can withdraw sponsorship if a student fails to meet academic standards. Strong grades also increase your eligibility for long‑term visas.
Budget realistically. Factor in tuition, visa fees, insurance, housing and living costs. Our consultants can help you explore scholarships and financial‑aid options.
Consider health insurance early. Some institutions automatically enrol students in health plans; others require proof of purchase before arrival. Without insurance, your visa may not be issued.
Keep track of renewals and deadlines. Set reminders for visa renewal, Emirates ID renewal and tuition payments. Late submissions can result in fines or visa cancellation.
Consult experts. Professional guidance ensures you meet all criteria and avoid common pitfalls. As a study‑abroad consultancy in the UAE, we offer personalised assistance with admissions, documentation and visa applications.

UAE Equivalency Certificate Requirement for Student Visa Applicants

If you are applying for a UAE student visa to enroll in a university or higher education program, obtaining a UAE equivalency certificate is a mandatory requirement in most cases.

The UAE Ministry of Education requires students who completed their previous academic qualifications outside the country to verify that their diploma or degree meets the UAE’s national education standards. This process is essential for:

Finalizing university admission
Completing student visa procedures (especially in mainland universities)
Eligibility for long-term student visas (3-year, 5-year, or golden visas)
Obtaining a residence visa in some emirates

Failure to obtain this certificate in time can delay or jeopardize your visa approval, especially when the university is the sponsor.

For a complete guide to the application process, required documents, timelines, and step-by-step instructions, refer to our UAE Equivalency Certificate Step by step process guide

How can EduPrime Study Abroad help You?

The UAE student visa process includes legal requirements, application deadlines, and administrative procedures. Our expert Education consultants provides complete support to ensure a smooth and timely visa application experience:

University selection: We help match your academic interests with suitable UAE universities and programmes.
Application assistance: We guide you through the admission process, ensuring your documents meet university and government standards.
Visa processing: Our team liaises with university Student Affairs offices, submits your visa application through the GDRFA/ICP and monitors its progress.
Financial planning: We advise on tuition fees, living costs and payment schedules, and we assist in securing scholarships where available.
Post‑arrival support: From arranging accommodation to obtaining your Emirates ID, our staff provides on‑ground assistance until you settle into university life.