To obtain a study visa for Dubai, Indian students must first secure admission to a recognised university in Dubai. Once admitted, students can apply for a study visa through the institution or the Dubai immigration authorities.
To be eligible for a Dubai study visa, students must meet certain requirements, including passing a medical examination and providing proof of financial support for their stay in Dubai. The fees for a Dubai student visa vary and depend on various factors, including the course duration and the applicant's nationality. The validity of a Dubai student visa usually corresponds to the duration of the degree, with the option to renew it before expiration.
Are you considering studying at a UK university campus in Dubai? Book a free consultation with SI-UK today to learn more about student visa requirements in Dubai and how we can help you submit a successful Dubai visa application.
Dubai Student Visa Process
A Dubai student visa allows international students to study and reside in the UAE for one year and can be renewed annually based on the course duration. Below is the step-by-step process for obtaining a student visa:
Step 1: Receive your Offer Letter
After securing admission to a recognised university in Dubai, obtain your formal acceptance or offer letter from the institution.
Step 2: Prepare the Required Documents
Gather and submit the following documents along with your visa application:
- A completed Student Visa Application Form
- Signed and unconditional offer letter
- Proof of tuition and visa fee payment (receipt copies)
- Colour passport copy with at least six months validity
- Passport-sized photographs (recent, colour)
Step 3: Pay Visa Fees
Pay the applicable visa fees, which typically range between AED 2,300–2,700 for processing, with an additional refundable security deposit (AED 2,500–3,000). Payment methods depend on the university or visa processing centre.
Step 4: Wait for Visa Processing
Visa processing times typically take 10–15 business days after submitting all required documents. Students receive a Student Entry Permit valid for two months, during which they can enter Dubai and collect their residency visa.
Step 5: Collect Your Visa
Once approved, the visa is issued as a residency visa, allowing students to live and study in Dubai.
Types of Dubai Student Visa
Regular Student Visa
A UAE Student Visa is issued annually, renewable based on course duration, with an added grace period for travel to and departure from the country.
Golden Visa
The Golden Visa 10-year residency permit for exceptional students who meet high academic or entrepreneurial criteria. Investors, entrepreneurs, notable scientists, talented students, and humanitarians are the most eligible applicants for this route.
Green Visa
The UAE Green Visa is a 5-year visa available to freelancers, investors, or entrepreneurs without requiring a sponsor.
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Green Residence for Skilled Employees: This visa category is to attract talented individuals. The new track provides a 5-year residency for skilled employees without a sponsor or employer. The salary of the applicant should not be less than AED 15,000.
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Green Residence for Freelancing and Self-Employment: The biggest advantage of this type of visa is that you don’t need to require a sponsor or an employer. The annual income from self-employment for the previous two years should not be less than AED 360,000.
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Green Residence for Investor or Partner: The track includes a 5-year residency for investors who establish a new firm or participate in commercial activities.
Documents Required to Apply for Dubai Student Visa
The documents required to apply for a Dubai student visa are as follows:
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Passport with at least six months of validity and two blank pages
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Passport copies (4)
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Passport-sized photographs (12)
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Entry visa copies (3, upon arrival)
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Acceptance letter from a UAE university
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Proof of tuition and visa fee payments
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Attested undergraduate degree (for postgraduate applicants, based on university requirements)
Study in Dubai
Contact SI-UK today to learn more about Dubai student visa requirements or begin your visa application.
FAQs
The visa deposit fee is 3000 AED. Normal application takes 14 working days from the date of application.
Graduate with a grade of at least 95% from public or private secondary schools. University students must graduate with a distinctive GPA of 3.75 from universities within and outside the country.
Dependents are not currently allowed into the UAE on a student study visa.
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