Student Residence Visa
United Arab Emirates
Last updated: December 19, 2025
1 year (renewable)
$82
3-5 weeks
Low
About this Visa
This visa lets international students study full-time at UAE universities. You get a residence visa lasting one year and renews each year you study. It's one of the easiest visas to get in the UAE if you have university acceptance. The visa comes with key benefits: you can legally live in the UAE, get health insurance, and after your first year, you can work part-time up to 6 hours daily. You can also bring family members once you're earning income. This visa is for international students only. Gulf citizens (Saudi, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar) don't need visas.
Key Benefits
- Work part-time after first year up to 6 hours daily
- Study legally with full-time enrollment protection
- Mandatory health insurance included
- Bring family once working with income
- Travel freely with visa
- Fast renewal if enrolled
Eligibility & Requirements
Eligibility Criteria
- Age 18 or older
- Full-time admission to accredited UAE university
- Pass medical screening (TB, HIV, Hepatitis tests)
- No criminal convictions or deportations from UAE or Gulf countries
- Show minimum $8,000-$10,000 in bank account
- English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL may be required)
- University or parent/guardian sponsorship
- Can only work after completing first year of studies
Financial Requirement
Show at least $8,000-$10,000 in your bank account. This proves you can support yourself during studies.
Documents
- Valid passportAt least 6 months valid, 2 blank pages
- University acceptance letterFrom accredited UAE institution
- Proof of fundsRecent bank statements showing $8,000+
- Transcripts and degreeTranslated to English, officially certified
- Medical testsBlood tests, chest X-ray, TB screening in UAE
- Photos12 passport-sized, white background
- Housing proofLease or university housing letter
- Birth certificateTranslated and certified, may be needed
Disclaimer: The information on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Visa requirements, fees, and processes change frequently. Please verify all information with official government sources and consult a qualified immigration attorney before making decisions.