Student Residence Visa
International students enrolled at an accredited UAE university or college.
The Student Residence Visa is a UAE study & graduate visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~AED 3,000-6,000 (incl. medical, Emirates ID, insurance)) and processing time (~2-4 weeks), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Student Residence Visa is for
International students enrolled at an accredited UAE university or college.
Renewable while enrolled; outstanding students/graduates may qualify for a 5- or 10-year Golden visa, but study alone gives no permanent residence or citizenship.
Student Residence Visa - eligibility criteria
- Admission/enrolment at an accredited UAE institution
- Sponsorship by the university or college
- Proof of funds or guardian support
- Pass medical fitness test
- Health insurance
Student Residence Visa cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Student Residence Visa (United Arab Emirates) is ~AED 3,000-6,000 (incl. medical, Emirates ID, insurance), with an indicative processing time of ~2-4 weeks. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at UAE Government (u.ae).
| Type | Temporary |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Sponsored by the university; processed via ICP/GDRFA |
| Length of stay | 1 year, renewable for the course duration |
| Work rights | Limited part-time work with permission |
| Study rights | Full-time study at the sponsoring institution |
| Government fee | ~AED 3,000-6,000 (incl. medical, Emirates ID, insurance) |
| Processing time | ~2-4 weeks |
| Route to PR | Renewable while enrolled; outstanding students/graduates may qualify for a 5- or 10-year Golden visa, but study alone gives no permanent residence or citizenship. |
Pathway & next steps
Renewable while enrolled; outstanding students/graduates may qualify for a 5- or 10-year Golden visa, but study alone gives no permanent residence or citizenship.
Many applicants also compare Golden Visa · Golden Residence Visa (10-year), Family Child · Family Residence Visa - Children, Jobseeker · Job Exploration / Jobseeker Visit Visa. Run a free VisaChief check to see which UAE route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Student Residence Visa pitfalls we fix
Student Residence Visa - frequently asked questions
How much does the Student Residence Visa cost?
The Student Residence Visa government fee is ~AED 3,000-6,000 (incl. medical, Emirates ID, insurance). Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at UAE Government (u.ae) before applying.
How long does the Student Residence Visa take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~2-4 weeks. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Student Residence Visa lead to permanent residence?
Renewable while enrolled; outstanding students/graduates may qualify for a 5- or 10-year Golden visa, but study alone gives no permanent residence or citizenship.
Can I work on the Student Residence Visa?
Work rights: Limited part-time work with permission.
Who can apply for the Student Residence Visa?
International students enrolled at an accredited UAE university or college.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official United Arab Emirates government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- UAE Government (u.ae) - official United Arab Emirates immigration authority