Last Updated on June 5, 2025
If you’re planning to pursue your education in the United Arab Emirates, understanding the student visa in UAE is essential.
Whether you’re applying to a university or enrolling your children in school, the UAE offers several student visa categories to suit different academic and personal situations.
In this post, I’ll discuss the types of student visas in the UAE, student visa requirements, application procedures, and your rights as a student.
Types of Student Visa in The UAE
1. University-Sponsored Student Visa
If you are enrolling in a UAE-based university, the university can sponsor your student visa in the UAE. This is the most common option for international students.
Student visa in UAE requirements:
- Admission offer letter from a recognized UAE university
- Passport valid for at least 6 months
- Four or more passport-sized photographs
- Proof of tuition fee payment and sufficient funds for living expenses
- Proof of accommodation (either from the university or private housing)
- Previous academic certificates (e.g., high school diploma)
- Medical fitness certificate from a UAE-approved medical center
Note: This visa needs to be renewed annually for the duration of your study.
2. Parent-Sponsored Student Visa
If your parents are UAE residents, they can sponsor your student visa in UAE, whether you’re joining a university or a school.
Required documents:
- An admission letter from your school or university
- Passport valid for at least 6 months
- Four or more passport-sized photographs
- Proof of your parents’ income in the UAE
- Educational documents
- Medical fitness certificate
Eligibility: A father or mother in the UAE can sponsor a daughter until marriage or a son until he turns 25.
3. 10-Year Golden Residency Visa for Graduates
Outstanding students graduating from a UAE university (or from top global universities) can apply for the 10-year student visa in UAE, also known as the Golden Visa. This option does not require annual renewal.
Criteria:
- Graduation must be within the last 2 years
- The university should be classified as A or B by the Ministry of Education
- Recommendation letter from your university
- Accredited graduation certificate
- Minimum GPA of 3.5 (A-class university)
- Minimum GPA of 3.8 (B-class university)
For students who graduated outside the UAE:
- Graduation from a top 100 university worldwide
- GPA of at least 3.5
- The certificate must be attested by the UAE Ministry of Education
- Graduation date within the last 2 years
With the Golden Visa, you’re also allowed to work part-time and sponsor your parents, spouse, and children.
4. 5-Year Visa UAE for Outstanding High School Students
High school students studying in the UAE can apply for the 5-year student visa UAE if they are national-level academic toppers.
Eligibility requirements:
- Achieve at least 95% in your final year of secondary school
- Study in a public or private school in the UAE
- Recommendation letter from the Ministry of Education (Emirates Schools Establishment)
This visa may be extended if you enroll in a top-tier university in the UAE with a program that exceeds 5 years.
How to Apply for a Student Visa in UAE?
Applying for a student visa in UAE is now more convenient thanks to the availability of online portals and government-approved service centers. Once you have all the required documents ready, follow these steps based on your visa type and location:
Step 1: Choose the Right Sponsor
Depending on your situation, your student visa in UAE can be sponsored by:
- A UAE university or college
- A parent who is a UAE resident
- You, if you qualify for the Golden Visa
Step 2: Prepare the Required Documents
Here are the typical student visa in UAE requirements:
- Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
- Recent passport-sized photographs
- Admission offer letter from a UAE-registered institution
- Previous academic certificates
- Proof of tuition fee payment
- Proof of funds for living expenses
- Medical fitness certificate (from a DHA/MOH-approved clinic in UAE)
- Emirates ID application form (for in-country applicants)
- Sponsor’s Emirates ID and proof of relationship (if sponsored by a parent)
Step 3: Choose the Application Channel
You can apply through one of the following platforms:
A. ICP Smart Services Portal (For all Emirates except Dubai)
- Visit: https://icp.gov.ae
- Choose “Golden Visa Services” if you are eligible for the 10-year visa
- For standard student visas (sponsored by parent or university), select “Residency Services” “Residency from Outside UAE” or “Residency from Inside UAE”
B. GDRFA Dubai Portal (For Dubai-based institutions or residents)
- Visit: https://gdrfad.gov.ae
- Under “Services”, go to Residency Services
- Apply for a student visa if your sponsor is a Dubai-based university or parent
- For the Golden Visa, use the Golden Residency section
C. Mobile Apps for Convenience
- ICP Smart Services App (Android/iOS)
- GDRFA Dubai App (Android/iOS)
Both apps allow users to apply, upload documents, pay fees, and track visa status.
D. Amer Centers (Dubai Only)
If you’re not familiar with online procedures, visit an Amer Center near you. These government-approved centers can apply on your behalf for all GDRFA services, including student visas.
E. University PRO/Admissions Office
Many universities in the UAE handle the full visa process for students, especially for international applicants. Check if your university offers visa assistance.
Step 4: Undergo Medical Test and Biometrics
If you’re already in the UAE:
- Book a medical test at a MOHAP or DHA-approved medical center.
- You’ll also be required to complete biometrics for the Emirates ID at a designated ICP office.
If you’re outside the UAE:
- Apply for the entry permit first.
- Once you arrive, complete the medical test and biometric process to activate the residency visa.
Step 5: Pay Fees and Track Application
- Visa processing fees range from AED 2,000 to AED 4,000, depending on the visa type and service channel.
- You can track your application online or through mobile apps. Processing usually takes 5 to 10 working days.
Additional Tips:
- Always double-check the eligibility for the Golden Visa before applying.
- For fast-track services, choose the urgent processing option (extra fee applies).
- Some universities require you to transfer your visa under their sponsorship if you shift from another sponsor.
Can You Work Part-Time on a Student Visa in UAE?
Yes! As a student holding a valid student visa in UAE, you are allowed to work part-time during vacations, holidays, or outside of study hours. However, you must first obtain a part-time work permit and a legal contract with your employer.
Can You Sponsor Your Parents on a Student Visa in UAE?
If you are a Golden Visa holder, you are eligible to sponsor your immediate family members, including your parents, spouse, and children, while you reside and study in the UAE.
