Student Visa
Embassy required
- Maximum stay
- 365 days
- Processing time
- 2-5 weeks
- Fee
- AED 2,500-3,500 (approx. $680-$953 USD, including processing and medical tests)
- Validity
- 1 year, renewable annually
- Entry
- Single entry
Student visa for full-time study at a UAE-accredited educational institution. The university/institution acts as the visa sponsor. Valid for 1 year initially, renewable annually until program completion. Outstanding students with exceptional academic results may qualify for a 5-year long-term student visa. A medical fitness test is required upon arrival. The visa includes issuance of an Emirates ID card.
Eligibility
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Nationality
Available to all nationalities
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Purpose of visit
Must have a confirmed admission/acceptance letter from a UAE-accredited educational institution for a full-time program
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Health
Must pass the UAE medical fitness test including blood test and chest X-ray
Documents you need
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Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 6
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Photo
Count: 4; Specifications: Recent colour passport-size photographs with white background
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Proof of funds
Accepted forms: Bank statements, scholarship letter, or sponsor financial guarantee; Minimum amount: Sufficient funds to cover tuition fees and living expenses
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Travel insurance
Coverage area: UAE; Minimum coverage: Valid health insurance covering UAE stay
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Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: Payment through the sponsoring educational institution; Amount: AED 2,500-3,500 total (includes processing, medical tests, and Emirates ID)
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Medical fitness
Provide a medical fitness certificate if the destination requires one for this route.
Destination country: UAE; Examining center: UAE-approved medical centre
How to apply
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Document gathering
Obtain admission letter from UAE-accredited institution. Gather passport copies, passport photos, academic transcripts, and proof of financial means
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Online application
Your sponsoring university/institution submits the visa application through the ICP or GDRFA portal on your behalf
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Fee payment
Pay visa fees (AED 2,500-3,500) through the educational institution. A visa maintenance charge may also apply
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Processing wait
Wait 2-5 weeks for visa processing. Entry permit will be emailed to you
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Document submission
Upon arrival in the UAE, undergo medical fitness test at an approved medical centre
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Biometrics
Visit a typing centre to apply for Emirates ID card and complete biometrics
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Visa collection
Residence visa stamp is placed in passport after medical clearance and Emirates ID processing