Student residence visa for international students enrolled at UAE-accredited universities and educational institutions. The visa process is facilitated by the university, which acts as sponsor. Includes initial Student Entry Permit followed by Student Residence Visa for the duration of studies. Covers programmes at universities across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and other emirates.
Undergraduate programmes: AED 37,500–70,000/yr ($10,200–$19,000). Postgraduate: AED 55,000–85,000/yr ($15,000–$23,000). Free zone university branches of international institutions may charge more. Government-funded institutions (UAE University, Khalifa University) may offer scholarships to UAE/GCC nationals.
Students aged 18+ may work only with the appropriate student training or work permit. Official UAE sources confirm the permit route but do not publish a universal student hour cap; universities and emirates may apply local conditions.
| Program | Type | Duration | Min Degree | Work | PR Path |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Graduate Residence Extension | Job seeker | 12mo | Bachelors | No | No |
| Golden Visa (Long-Term Residence) | Work permit | 60mo-120mo | Bachelors | Unrestricted | No |
| Test | Purpose | Language | Min Score | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TOEFL iBT / IELTS | Admission | English | — | English is the medium of instruction at most UAE universities. TOEFL 80+ or IELTS 5.5+ typically required. EmSAT (Emirates Standardized Test) accepted by many UAE institutions. |
| Fee | Type | Amount | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Student Visa Processing Fee | Application | $1,500 | One time |
| Visa Maintenance Charge | Registration | $680 | One time |
University acts as visa sponsor. Total visa costs (entry permit, stamping, medical, insurance): AED 5,500–8,500 ($1,500–$2,300). Additional AED 2,500 one-time Visa Maintenance Charge at some institutions. Passport must be valid for at least 7 months. Apply 2–3 months before semester. Security deposit may be required. Dubai Knowledge Fund Establishment regulates Dubai free zone universities.
- Dubai Virtual Working Programme (digital nomad visa)
- UAE Golden Visa (Entrepreneur) (entrepreneur)
- UAE Golden Visa (Specialist/Professional) (economic)
- UAE Green Visa (Freelancer) (freelancer)
- UAE Startup Visa (startup)
- UAE Golden Visa (Investor) (golden visa)
- UAE Citizenship by Nomination (merit)
Last verified: May 3, 2026. Source