UAE has a growing higher education sector with branches of international universities and local institutions. International students in UAE require a student residence visa. This guide covers UAE student visa requirements, process, and costs for 2026.
In this guide:
Who Needs a UAE Student Visa?
- International students enrolling in UAE-based universities or colleges need a UAE residence visa (student category)
- Short-term courses (less than 6 months): student visa may not be required; check with the institution
- Online-only study without physical UAE presence: no UAE visa required
UAE Universities That Sponsor Student Visas
- University of Dubai, American University of Dubai, American University of Sharjah, Khalifa University (Abu Dhabi), NYU Abu Dhabi, Sorbonne Abu Dhabi, Middlesex University Dubai, Heriot-Watt University Dubai, and 60+ other licensed UAE institutions
- University-sponsored visa: the UAE university applies for the student residence visa on the student’s behalf after enrolment
UAE Student Visa Process
- Secure UAE university admission: obtain official letter of acceptance from UAE-licensed institution
- University applies for student entry permit: once enrolled and accepted, the university applies to UAE immigration (GDRFA/ICA)
- Student travels to UAE on entry permit
- Medical fitness test: within 30 days of arrival in UAE
- Emirates ID biometrics: apply at typing centre
- Student residence visa issued: typically 1-year validity; renewable annually while enrolled
UAE Student Visa Costs
- Medical test: AED 300–500
- Emirates ID fee: AED 372 (1 year)
- ICA/GDRFA residence visa fee: AED 100–200
- University processing fee: varies by institution (AED 500–2,000)
- Total: approximately AED 1,200–3,100/year (separate from tuition fees)
Transitioning from Student to Work/Investor Visa
- After graduation: student visa expires; student must secure employment visa or return home
- Golden Visa for graduates: UAE introduced a Golden Visa category for first-year university graduates with 3.8+ GPA from top-ranked UAE or global universities
- UAE Green Visa for graduates: same 3.8+ GPA from accredited UAE university qualifies for 5-year Green Visa