UAE Residence Visa for Students - Documents Required, Fees, Process
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One of the hottest destinations in the Middle East, UAE (United Arab Emirates) has opened 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. This article covers details on the UAE Residence Visa for students (student visa).
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. Ideally located in the midst of East and the West, the city marvellously blends the elements of both.
The first and foremost requirement before stepping into UAE for higher education is the student visa. In the UAE, either the residents (parents/guardian) sponsoring their children or one of the accredited universities/institutions can secure the student’s visa. Through this article, we wish to help our readers by listing the requirements of a UAE Residence Visa for international students, its fees and other requisites.
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Also Read: A Complete Guide for International Students to Study in UAE 2025
UAE Residence Visa for Students
The first and foremost requirement before stepping into UAE is the Visa. Through this article, we wish to help our readers by listing the requirements of a Student Visa for UAE along with the fees and other requisites.
The following table provides the types of UAE student visas:
| UAE Student Visa Type | Duration | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Short Term | 1 year | Renewable upon proof of continuation of academics |
| Long Term | 5 years | Started in November 2018. It is for outstanding students with academic merit (95% in schooling and/or at least a 3.75 GPA) |
Documents, Requirements, and Restrictions
Student Residence Visas are usually valid for around a year at a time and they need to be renewed every year during the course of study. We enumerate below the various documents that are required for the Visa:
- A passport with a minimum of 6 months validity is a must and it must contain two blank visa pages one for endorsing the visa and the other for entry stamps
- Around 4 passport copies
- Around 12 photographs
- 2 passport copies
- 3 passport copies along with an entry visa to the UAE need to be submitted on arrival
- An offer letter that evinces the acceptance of candidates to a UAE tertiary institute
- Bank statements that act as substantiation of funds in the UAE
- Visa sponsor ( the university itself or a parent or relative)
- Consent from the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA).
- 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
- Copy of tuition fee receipt for the current study year of the program
- Those opting for a post-graduate program will be required to get their undergraduate degree attested
- Copy of visa fees receipt for the present study year of the program
- Candidates from certain countries might be required to undertake a security check in order to ensure that they won't pose a threat to UAE security
- Candidates are also usually required to go through a medical test at a certified UAE medical centre (allow AED 350-500). 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. But the students are advised to check out with the UAE immigration department or UAE Ministry of Health for the latest updates in this regard.
Student Residence Visa Fees
The general cost of a UAE student visa inUAE Dirhams is AED 2800.
- There is a wide contrast in the Student Visa Fees in different universities, colleges, and institutions. It may fluctuate between 1,000 to 3,000 AED for a year student residence visa.
- A few of the universities, colleges, and institutions may also demand a refundable visa deposit varying between 2,000 to 3,000 AED
- Renewal charges vary between 1,000 to 3,000 AED yearly
- Students may also experience variations depending on if the university is located in a UAE education-free zone such as Dubai Academic City or Knowledge Village, or not.
- Diverse emirates may have different fees
Certain universities or institutions may ask for an administrative fee for the 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 check with the university, college or institute for the latest updates.
The table given below provides a breakdown of the cost of UAE visa fees and other associated costs for Abu Dhabi University:
| Head | Cost |
|---|---|
| Repatriation Deposit | AED 5,560 |
| Residence Visa Application | AED 850 |
| Student Health Insurance | AED 800 |
| Visa Renewal | AED 550 |
(Source: Abu Dhabi University)
In the case of Middlesex University Dubai, the UAE student visa fee is AED 5,345 (outside of UAE). This fee includes visa processing fees, emirates ID, and medical insurance. In addition, a visa deposit of AED 2,500 is required.
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 visas 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 a visa normally takes 1-3 weeks, express cancellation takes 1-2 weeks.
The process of Visa Application in Dubai
We list below 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 the 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 the 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
Benefits of a Residence Visa
- Access to government health facilities and health insurance.
- Opening a bank account
- Obtaining a personal or a car loan
- Obtaining a driver's license
- Visa-Free access to many nations
Working with a Student Visa
Earlier, international students did not have permission to work on a student visa. The only type of work allowed was the internship. But now, those with a student visa holding a UAE work permit can work for 4 consecutive hours. Full-time work is still not allowed.
Read more articles related to studying in UAE
| Study in UAE | Top Universities in UAE | UAE Education System |
| Study in UAE: Student Life | UAE Student Visa Requirements and application process | Various scholarship options for Indian students in UAE |
This was all about the UAE Residence visa for students. If you wish to study abroad, then you can get assistance from Shiksha Counselling Services for free. You can also drop your queries in the comments section below.
Q: Â Can Indians apply for BITS Dubai?
Indian students who wish to study at BITS Dubai can apply for admission easily. Applicants have to submit the online application by the deadline for BITS admission. Students must meet the BITS Dubai admission requirements as per the program. Mentioned below are BITS Pilani Dubai admission requirements for International students:
BITS Dubai requirements for first-degree programs:
- Complete 12th Grade or equivalent with a minimum 60% overall aggregate of marks and a minimum aggregate of 60% in Physics, Mathematics, and Chemistry/ Biology/ Computer Science or any other vocational subjects with at least 50% marks in each subject.
- Meet the English language proficiency requirements
BITS Dubai requirements for higher degree programs:
- Complete a bachelor's degree with a minimum aggregate of 60% in relevant disciplines.
- Candidates will be required to appear and successfully clear the Interview to qualify for higher degree admission
- Meet the English language proficiency requirements
Q: Â Is Manipal Dubai worth it?
Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) - Dubai Campus is one of the best universities in Dubai which is famous for its high-quality education and has received several accolades. It is a 5-star rated university as per the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) International Higher Education Rating 2022. The university is also ranked 3rd in the Middle East for its MBA programme by Forbes Middle East Magazine. Additionally, it has been ranked among the top 200 universities in Asia. So doing a bachelor's, master's, or any certificate programme at Manipal Academy of Higher Education – Dubai is worth it for international students.
Q: Â Why indian students choose to study at University of Wollongong - UAE?
Indian students prefer attend the University of Wollongong (UOW) in Dubai for a number of reasons -
1) Ranking: UOW consistently ranks among the top 200 universities in the world.
2) Career prospects: Within six months of graduation, 84% of UOW graduates find good job opportunities.
3) International Accreditation: The CAA & KHDA have accredited and recognised all degrees from UOW on a global scale.
4) Global ties: UOW connects students and graduates with companies throughout the world through its presence in Malaysia, Singapore, Hong Kong, and Dubai.
5) Business-friendly atmosphere: The United Arab Emirates is a popular destination for Indian and foreign investors.
6) Scholarships and financial aid: UOWD supports students with financial aid scholarships so that students who genuinely need extra financial help, can have their education expenses covered.
Q: Â What is the cost of studying in BITS Dubai?
The cost of studying in BITS Dubai vary as per the program for International students. BITS Dubai tuition fees varies from INR 7 L and 11 L for first-year. Students also maanage the additional cost to study at BITS Dubai campus. Mentioned below are the tuition fees with additional cost of International studnets:
Course | Tuition Range | Hostel Range | Insurance Range | Miscellaneous Expenses and Fees Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
BE/BTech | INR 6.80 L – 11.29 L | INR 6.80 L | INR 45,360 | INR 40,824 – 1.13 L |
BSc | INR 6.80 L – 11.29 L | INR 6.80 L | INR 45,360 | INR 40,824 |
MBA/PGDM | INR 6.80 L – 7.25 L | INR 6.80 L | INR 45,360 | INR 65,772 |
MEng | INR 6.80 L – 7.25 L | INR 6.80 L | INR 45,360 | INR 65,772 |
MS | INR 6.80 L – 7.25 L | INR 6.80 L | INR 45,360 | INR 65,772 |
Q: Â How expensive is it to live at University of Wollongong - UAE?
The estimated annual living expenses for overseas students, as per the university's official website, range from $8,000 to $12,000 and include housing, food, entertainment, books, internet usage, and transportation. As per the same sources, the estimated tuition cost for the 2023 academic year is $9,990. Students are also required to pay the Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF) and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).
Dubai, where UOW is located, has a generally higher cost of living than other UAE cities. But Wollongong has a fairly affordable cost of living, so students can concentrate on their education rather than their monetary worries. Depending on the region, the approximately weekly rental cost for a two-bedroom flat in Wollongong ranges from $550 to $750.
Q: Â What are people's opinions on SP Jain School Of Global Management - Dubai Campus for MBA?
Q: Â How many students are in Manipal, Dubai?
At present, over 22,000 international students from 40 nations across the globe have taken MAHE Dubai admissions due to its rating, reputation, brilliant faculties, and excellent academic programs. The university offers over 50 UG, PG, Ph.D., and certificate programs in specializations like Architecture & Design; Engineering; Humanities & Social Sciences; Information Sciences; Life Sciences; Management; Media & communication, and more. Also, the university rating was 5 stars as per the Knowledge and Human Development Authority's (KHDA) higher education classification which is also a reason for the huge admission rate.
Q: Â Is getting part-time jobs easy while studying at University of Wollongong - UAE?
A variety of services are provided by the University of Wollongong in Dubai (UOW) to assist students in locating part-time employment. Some of these are -
Campus Jobs (JOC)
All enrolled students are eligible to apply for casual positions as administrative and project assistants, student mentors, and hospitality workers.
Career portals
Students can apply for internships, part-time jobs, and full-time jobs by uploading their resumes.
Finding a part-time work in Wollongong is based on your talents, prior experience, and communication skills. It is not at all difficult, though, if you are willing to work on any available task and are not too picky.
In the UAE, in order to work part-time, you have to:
- Obtain a university degree, or a two- or three-year Diploma in a technical or scientific field
- Get a part-time work permit from the government
- Work less than eight hours/day in the secondary job
Priya Garg is a seasoned content writer and editor. With her rich experience in content writing, teaching and research & analysis, Priya believes in providing only the correct information which is also up-to-date. H... Read Full Bio
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