The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has become a top study destination for international students, offering world-class education and cutting-edge facilities. Whether you’re planning to attend a university in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or any other UAE city, obtaining a student visa is a key step. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about UAE student visas—from types and eligibility to costs and the application process.
MSM Unify, a trusted overseas education consultancy, has helped 1,86,000+ students realize their study abroad dreams. With over 50,000 programs from 1,500+ campuses across 21 destinations, MSM Unify can assist you in selecting the best institution and program to align with your goals.
In the UAE, there are two main types of student visas:
This visa is issued to students enrolled in short-term programs, which are typically less than one year long. It is suitable for exchange programs, short certification courses, and language learning programs.
The long-term visa is designed for students enrolling in degree programs, such as bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degrees. This visa is usually valid for 1-3 years, depending on the program duration, and can be renewed annually until the completion of the course.
Each type of visa requires sponsorship by the university or educational institution in the UAE.
The following requirements must be satisfied for you to be qualified for a UAE student visa:
MSM Unify’s overseas education consultants can assist in ensuring you meet all the eligibility criteria and guide you through each step.
The cost of a UAE student visa can vary based on the duration of the program and other factors such as medical exams, visa issuance fees, and health insurance. Here’s a breakdown:
Please note: The costs listed above are only estimates, the actual amount may vary. These costs can fluctuate based on the institution, course duration, and additional services such as express visa processing. MSM Unify can help you understand these fees and ensure a hassle-free application process.
The UAE government has made several changes to its student visa policies in recent years, aimed at attracting more international students:
Introduced for outstanding students, this visa allows top-performing students to stay in the UAE for up to five years. To qualify, students must achieve a GPA of 3.75 or higher at graduation.
Recent policies allow students to stay for an additional 12 months after graduation to explore employment opportunities.
For the latest visa updates and how these changes could affect your study plans, MSM Unify provides expert advice on navigating the UAE’s visa landscape.
The following documents are typically required to apply for a UAE student visa:
Our experts at MSM Unify can help you gather these documents and ensure they meet the UAE’s visa requirements.
Applying for a UAE student visa is a straightforward process but requires careful planning and attention to detail. The UAE government mandates that your educational institution acts as your sponsor, which simplifies the process for international students. Below is a thorough explanation of each step that is involved:
The first and most crucial step is receiving an admission letter from a recognized university or college in the UAE. This institution will act as your visa sponsor. It’s essential to choose a program that suits your academic and career goals. If you’re unsure which institution or program to apply for, MSM Unify’s experienced consultants can help you find the perfect match from over 50,000 programs worldwide.
Once you’ve secured admission, your university will assist you with the visa application. The institution will gather the necessary documents and submit your application to the UAE’s General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA). It’s important to submit your application as early as possible to account for processing time and avoid delays.
To ensure your application process goes smoothly, you’ll need to provide a set of required documents. These include:
The cost of a student visa varies depending on the institution and the visa’s duration. Typically, it includes application fees, medical test fees, and health insurance. The estimated cost ranges between AED 3,000 and AED 5,000, with additional charges for medical tests and insurance. Some institutions may offer installment plans to ease financial stress.
After your arrival in the UAE, you must undergo a mandatory medical fitness test. This test ensures that you are free of contagious diseases, such as tuberculosis. It’s a crucial step for obtaining your residence visa and must be completed within a specific period after arrival. The medical test typically costs between AED 300 and AED 500.
Once all documents and fees are processed and approved, you’ll receive your student visa. Depending on the institution and the type of visa, you may receive an electronic visa or a visa stamped in your passport. The visa is typically valid for one year, after which it can be renewed annually for the duration of your studies.
Upon receiving your student visa, make sure to keep a copy of the visa document for future reference. Your institution will also provide guidance on the steps to take after receiving your visa, such as booking accommodation, preparing for orientation, and understanding the rules for renewing your visa annually.
Begin your visa application process as soon as you receive your admission offer. Processing times can take two to five weeks, and starting early helps you avoid last-minute stress.
Verify that every document is true, comprehensive, and current. Errors or missing documents may result in rejection or delays.
Monitor important deadlines for both your visa application and university admissions to avoid missing critical dates.
MSM Unify’s expert team can simplify the entire process, from selecting the right program to applying for your visa.
The processing time for a UAE student visa can vary but typically ranges between two to five weeks. Delays can occur if there are issues with your documentation or if additional background checks are required. Some universities also offer expedited processing for an additional fee.
MSM Unify’s experienced consultants can help you avoid unnecessary delays by ensuring that your application is complete and accurate before submission.
Here are a few tips to increase your chances of a successful UAE student visa application:
MSM Unify can guide you through the application process and provide helpful reminders so you don’t miss any important steps.
When applying for a student visa, you may need to submit a Statement of Purpose (SOP). This document outlines your academic goals, why you chose the UAE, and how studying there will benefit your career. Key points to include:
MSM Unify can help you craft a compelling SOP that highlights your strengths and maximizes your chances of visa approval.
Navigating the UAE student visa process may seem overwhelming, but with the right guidance and preparation, it can be a smooth and straightforward experience. Ensuring that your documents are complete, applying early, and staying informed about the latest visa updates will help you avoid delays and successfully obtain your student visa.
Let MSM Unify simplify your journey to studying in the UAE and beyond. Get in touch with us now to start on the road to academic achievement!
How to apply for a UAE student visa: A step-by-step guide
Share your details & our experts will call to discuss your goals
FAQs
A standard student visa is valid for one year and can be renewed annually until the completion of your program.
Yes, students can work part-time with permission from their educational institution and the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation.
There is no specific age limit, but students applying for higher education must meet the admission criteria of the institution.
Yes, health insurance is mandatory for all student visa holders in the UAE.
Yes, students can stay in the UAE for up to 12 months after graduation to search for employment.
This depends on the institution’s requirements. Most universities require IELTS, TOEFL, or other English proficiency tests.
The processing time typically ranges from two to five weeks, depending on the institution and other factors.
Yes, the visa application process can be initiated online through the educational institution’s portal or visa office.
In case of rejection, students can reapply after resolving the issues mentioned in the rejection notice.
No, UAE student visas do not allow sponsorship of family members, but they may apply for separate visas.
MSM Unify is a student marketplace that connects students with educational institutions and recruitment partners worldwide. We unify and allow everyone in the industry to work collaboratively to reach the world’s curious learners and provide them with a host of options when it comes to their education.
Download our App
Download our App
Copyright © 2025, MSM Unify. All rights reserved.
Google