UAE Student Visa Information

In order to study in the UAE, you will need a student visa, also knows as a student residence visa. Student visas in the UAE must be sponsored by a higher education institution or by a local relative and are only valid for up to one year at a time and will have to be renewed annually.

In order to be granted a visa, the following documents will be necessary:

• Passport with a minimum of 6 months validity. Ensure you have two blank pages for stamps and the visa
• Filled-out application form (provided by the institution)
• Passport copies (generally 2-4 copies)
• Photographs of yourself (12 copies)
• Admission offer letter from the UAE higher education institution you applied for
• Proof of funds for tuition fees and living expenses
• Copy of visa fees and tuition fees receipt
• Proof of accommodation
• If applying for a postgraduate program, proof of your undergraduate degree
• Candidates from certain countries might be required to undertake a security check
• Medical test at a certified UAE medical center (fee will be around AED 350-500)

You can submit these documents online to the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA) or to the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in each emirate, which offer both online and offline channels.

If you’re our student with an offer letter from any of our partner institutions in the UAE, we can advise you on how to go about the entire process. We’ll make sure you are fully informed on the latest visa requirements and conditions; also help you prepare the right documents for your submission.

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