UAE Student Visa Requirements and Application Process

Requirements for the UAE Student Visa: With its high quality of life, quality education and good post-study work opportunities, more and more international students are choosing UAE as their study-abroad destination. A country that does not levy income tax on its individuals/working professionals, the UAE seems like a safer place for career transitions for students and candidates abroad. 

One of the hottest destinations in the middle-east, UAE (United Arab Emirates) is now opening up new vistas of growth in Professional Education to contenders all over the world. UAE is a land of opportunities for study abroad students and a delight for curious travellers. Ideally located in the midst of east and the west, the city marvellously blends the elements of both. Those choosing Dubai as a study destination will benefit from its high-quality living standards and numerous opportunities, besides the serenity of living in a city nominated to be one of the safest in the world.

The first and foremost requirement before stepping into the UAE as an international student is a UAE student visa. Through this article, we wish to help our readers by listing the requirements of a Student Residence Visa along with the fees and other requisites. But first, let us learn about some conditions associated with the UAE student visa below. 

UAE Student Visa: Overview

International students coming to study in UAE can get their higher education sponsored either by the accredited university/college he/she is studying at or by their parents, who in turn must be the residents of the UAE. Furthermore, male students up to the age of 25 can get a sponsorship for their studies from expatriate residents. After the age of 25 years, male students can get sponsorship from their parents only after they show proof of attending a higher education institution in the UAE for a course with a minimum duration of 1 year.  

Female students, irrespective of their age, are eligible to get their sponsorship from expatriate residents until they get married.  

The UAE student visa is initially granted for a period of 1 year and can be renewed for the same amount of time after the successful submission of the proof of continuation of studies issued by the higher education institution where the student studies. 

UAE Student Visa Documents, Requirements and Restrictions 

Below are the requirements for the issuance of the UAE Student Residence Visas.

1. Confirmation of Acceptance from the Education Provider in UAE
2. A passport with a minimum of 6 months validity with a minimum of two blank visa pages, one for endorsing the visa and the other for entry stamps
3. Passport-sized photograph with white background
4. Cancellation of the previous visa or the visit visa (if any)
5. Bank statements which act as substantiation of funds in the UAE
6. In case a candidate has opted for university accommodation, he/she may be required to produce a letter from the university or a tenancy agreement
7. Copy of tuition fee receipt for the current study year of the program
8. Those opting for the post-graduate program will be required to get their undergraduate degree attested
9. Copy of visa fees receipt for the present study year of the program
10. Candidates are also usually required to go through a medical test at a certified UAE medical centre. The test generally includes a medical test and chest X-ray for:

• HIV (AIDS)
• Hepatitis B
• Hepatitis C
• Tuberculosis (TB)
• Leprosy
• Syphilis

In case the results of any of these tests turn positive, the candidate is deported with the exception of syphilis which is treated. However, the students are advised to check out with UAE immigration department or UAE Ministry of Health for the latest updates in this regard.

There is a wide contrast in the Student Visa Fees in different universities, colleges and ++ have different fees

Certain universities or institutions may ask for an administrative fee for administration of a student visa. Many institutions include this sum in the administrative expense in their tuition fees. For others, this amount is to be paid at the time of registration.

However, it is suggested to the students to check with the university, college or institute for the latest updates.

Visa Validity

• A student residence visa becomes invalid in case a student stays out of UAE for six months. Students then are not permitted to enter UAE unless they get their visa cancelled. In such a case, generally, the sponsor will report the visa holder to the immigration authorities.
• Visas normally take 2-5 weeks to process once all the correct documentation has been supplied.
• Express visas take 1-3 weeks to process.
• Cancellation of visa normally takes 1-3 weeks, express cancellation takes 1-2 weeks.

The process of Visa Application in Dubai

Listed below are the detailed steps that one should follow when applying for a visa:

• Before applying for a visa, ensure that you are clear on your purpose of visit.
• Complete your visa application form and affix your photograph.
• Photos must be in accordance with mandatory specifications.
• Attach all supporting documents required as per checklist. Make sure your application is complete. Incomplete applications are not accepted.
• Submit your application at the Dubai Visa Application Center along with the applicable fees in cash.
• Once the visa is approved the PNR will be updated and visa copy can be collected from the application centre.

Student Visa Charges in Dubai

Short Entry (visit) Visa: Dhs 500 (1 month)

Long Entry (visit) Visa: Dhs 1,000 (3 months)

Entry Visa for Study: Dhs 1,000

Renewal of Study Visa: Dhs 500

Points to be remembered in Dubai

After all the correct documentation has been submitted visas generally take 2 to 5 weeks for processing.

A registered student with a university or college in the UAE can obtain a visit visa. Cost is AED 1000, valid for 60 days (not full 2 months), renewable twice upon payment of AED 500 fee.