The UAE’s Digital Government has unveiled a comprehensive guide tailored for new students gearing up for the upcoming academic year, shedding light on visa and residency requisites and procedures for securing a golden residency.
The guide aims to demystify common queries and alleviate any apprehensions prospective students might harbor.
Student visa eligibility
Foreign students can procure a student visa if they are sponsored either by their UAE-resident parents or the educational institution they plan to enroll in. University-specific student affairs offices extend aid in navigating the visa application process.
Validity of Student Visa
Initially issued for a year, student visas can be renewed for a similar term upon furnishing official proof of ongoing enrollment from a recognized UAE higher education entity.
Necessary Documents
Aspiring students must furnish a university-issued certificate delineating the study duration, alongside other documents mandated in the general residency visa provisions.
Family Sponsorship
Foreign university students meeting financial benchmarks can sponsor their families’ residence in the UAE. Male students below 25 can be parent-sponsored, while female counterparts enjoy sponsorship irrespective of age.
Golden Visa Eligibility
Exceptional high school achievers attaining a state-level ranking of 95% or higher could snag a five-year golden residency, sans guarantor. UAE university students meeting specified criteria can secure a 10-year residence visa, contingent on their university’s classification by the Ministry of Education.
Processing Duration
Express processing for student visas typically spans 10 days, while regular processing may stretch between 15 to 20 days. Visas, valid for 12 months, necessitate renewal for prolonged programs.
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Application Timing
Commencing the visa process one to two months pre-semester is advisable, with renewal documents ideally submitted a month before visa expiration.
Work Opportunities
International students, with university approval, can engage in on-campus or off-campus work. Those backed by university sponsorship may solicit part-time job permits via the UAE Labour Department.
Cost of Student Visa
Approximating Dh2,500, student residence permits exclude ancillary fees like security deposits, file opening charges, or document authentication costs. An additional Dh500 levy applies.