Residence Visa for Studying in the UAE: Complete Guide for Indian Students
Updated On
-
Copy link
-
-
Limited-time offer : Access a free 10-Day IELTS study plan curated for you
Table of Contents
If you want to pursue higher education in the UAE as an international student, you would require a student residence visa, a permit to legally study and work in the country.
Whether you enrol in a University in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or any other emirate, understanding the visa process is critical for a smooth transition to student life in the UAE. To be able to apply for the residence visa for studying in the UAE, you would need to submit a certificate issued by the university you enrol in and certain other documents.
What is a UAE Student Residence Visa?
A UAE student residence visa is a permit that allows international students to live and study in the UAE for the duration of their academic program, typically for a year, and it can be renewed annually. It is a form of residence visa sponsored by your educational institution.
Apart from enabling international students to live and study, the UAE student residence visa provides access to essential services such as opening a bank account, obtaining a UAE SIM card, and accessing healthcare facilities.
Eligibility Criteria for UAE Student Visa in 2025
To obtain a UAE student visa in 2025, you generally need to be at least 18 years old, have an acceptance letter from a recognised UAE educational institution, and proof of sufficient financial resources to cover tuition and living expenses. For more specific information, refer to the table below:
ܾԳ |
ٱٲ |
Age |
Applicants must be at least 18 years old. |
University Admission |
An offer letter from a licensed UAE educational institution is necessary. |
Financial Resources |
Proof of sufficient funds or evidence of tuition and fee payment is generally required. |
Health Insurance |
Valid health insurance coverage within the UAE is compulsory. |
Medical Fitness |
A medical fitness test (blood test and chest X-ray) at an approved UAE health center is required. |
Sponsorship |
Visa sponsor required (university or parent/guardian in UAE). |
Security Clearance |
Some nationalities may need additional background checks. |
GPA Requirements |
Some universities have minimum GPA or grade requirements, especially for higher-level programs. |
Degree Accreditation |
Degrees from outside the UAE may need accreditation by the UAE Ministry of Education. |
Recent Graduation |
For Golden Visa, graduation may need to be within the last two years. |
University Rating |
Some programs may require the university to be highly rated by the Ministry of Education. |
Emirates ID |
Application for Emirates ID is mandatory for all student residents. |
Visa Fees |
Fees range from AED 7,000 to AED 15,000 for a one-year residence visa (varies by university and process). |
Processing Time |
Typically 10–20 working days (may be longer if applying from outside UAE) |
Required Documents for UAE Student Visa in 2025
To obtain a UAE student visa in 2025, you need to submit the following documents:
- A valid passport
- Passport-sized photographs as per UAE's specifications (generally with a white background) are required.
- Acceptance letter from a recognized UAE university or educational institution.
- Receipt or proof that you've paid the tuition fees.
- Proof of financial you have sufficient funds to cover your tuition fees.
- A medical fitness certificate from an approved clinic in the UAE.
- Valid health insurance coverage for the duration of your stay in the UAE.
- Submit the official UAE student visa application form.
Application Process for UAE Student Visa in 2025
The application process for a UAE student visa in 2025 generally involves the following steps:
Step 1: Secure Admission
Receive an offer of admission from a UAE-based university or educational institution. Keep in mind that the institution needs to be accredited by the UAE Ministry of Education.
Step 2: Find a Sponsor
The university or any designated sponsor typically handles the visa application process on your behalf.
Step 3: Gather Required Documents
As you already know, gather all the necessary documents like passport, admission letter, visa application form, and other documents.
Step 4: Submit the Application
Complete your application and submit it with all the required documents to the university or any other immigration authorities (GDRFA).
Step 5: Medical Fitness Test and Biometrics
Get yourself checked medically and provide a medical fitness test at a designated center in the UAE. Provide your biometric data (fingerprints) as part of the process.
Step 6: Wait for Visa Approval and Stamping
Wait for approval of your visa. Once approved, your passport will be stamped with the residence visa.
Step 7: Post-Approval Formalities
Finish any remaining formalities with your university and local authorities upon arrival. Finally, register with your university.
Step 8: Apply for Emirates ID
You’ll need to apply for an Emirates ID after your visa is stamped.
It is essential that you have a UAE Student Residence Visa before you begin your studies in the UAE. By meeting the eligibility criteria, preparing the required documents, and following the application process, you can ensure a hassle-free student life in the UAE.
Ready to Begin Your UAE Study Journey?
Navigating the UAE student visa process can be complex, but you don’t have to do it alone. ÿմ offers professional services for obtaining visas, but you can also take advantage of our vast experience in obtaining visas across the world, where over 50,000 people have trusted us for simple and hassle-free immigration solutions. Let us assist you with the process so that you can start a successful career in the UAE and elsewhere.
Thinking of Moving Abroad? Here's How We Can Help
- Point Calculation: In ÿմ, we calculate your points on your behalf to eliminate any chances of rejection or failure.
- Visa Application: ÿմ helps you to complete your visa application properly, and we even train you for your visa interview process, to make your immigration journey easier.
- Preparation for Language Test: ÿմ offers you expert guidance for your preparation for language tests like IELTS/PTE/TOEFL/CELPIP.
- Expert Guidance for Each Step of Your Immigration: With ÿմ, you can rest assured about your immigration journey. We help you to take every step in the right direction to make your immigration journey smooth.
- Job Search Assistance: At ÿմ, you receive complete job search assistance, from CV optimization to mock interviews, everything is covered by ÿմ. And we won’t leave you alone until you get your job in your dream country.
So don’t waste time thinking about the best time to visit the UAE. Start your career in UAE with ÿմ and Book Your Free Consultation Today!
Useful Links for Further Reading:
- Tags
Limited-time offer : Access a free 10-Day IELTS study plan curated for you