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The UAE is a great place for international students. It is the most popular destination for students from all over the world, and it offers many opportunities to make your life in UAE easier, more peaceful, and more fulfilling. The country is home to one of the most remarkable educational institutions – the University of Sharjah, where thousands of students attend, each year. For them, it's not just about education but also about living a joyful life in Dubai and experiencing the best of UAE culture.
Those planning to study in the United Arab Emirates must apply for a student visa. However, they must first be accepted into a university in the UAE, as the school is in charge of the visa application process. The requirements may differ depending on the student's nationality, or the student may be required to submit additional documents for review. You will find all of the information you need about student visas for the UAE right here.
How to Get a Student Visa for the UAE?
If you are accepted into a UAE university, your institution arranges to get your UAE Student Visa. To get your UAE Student Visa, your school must be accredited. The UAE Student Visa is a residence visa, so your school can only get it for you once you are in the country. This means you will first need to obtain an entry permit for study.
1. Applying for the Entry Permit
Depending on your country, you must obtain an entry permit before entering the UAE. Your entry permit is also sponsored by your school. They can apply through one of the following channels:
- The Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship
- The General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs
- GDRFA Dubai mobile apps for Apple and Android
Your institution is responsible for obtaining a Student Visa, also known as a Student Residence Visa, once you arrive in the UAE.
2. Applying for the Student Visa
On your behalf, your higher education institution applies for a UAE Student Visa. It is applied at the GDRFA office in the relevant emirate where you will reside. If your application is approved, the GDRFA will attach a Residence Visa to your passport and issue you an Emirates ID, which will be valid for the same period as your student visa.
Documents required for Student Visa for the UAE
When applying for a Student Visa in the UAE, you must meet several requirements. Some of the documents supporting your application must be submitted. This includes:
- Your passport
- Passport-sized pictures.
- The letter of acceptance
- Proof of financial ability to cover the costs of your studies in the UAE.
- A medical certificate
- Proof of accommodation.
- Attach your proof of certification from your previous university if you are applying for a master's program.
The requirements for visa applications vary depending on the emirate and university you attend. These are only the general requirements. Your school will eventually provide you with a complete list of all the required documents.
Validity of UAE Student Visa
The majority of student visas are valid for one year and can be renewed once a year for the duration of your studies. To renew your visa, you must notify the government that you are still a student. This can be confirmed by your university/college. However, in 2018, the UAE government launched a new type of Long-Term Residence Visa reserved exclusively for outstanding international students. This visa is only valid for five years.
Eligibility for a 5-year UAE Student Visa
If an international student has a high GPA, then they are eligible to receive a UAE Student Visa having a validity of 5 years. The eligibility criteria are:
- Secondary education graduates must have a minimum grade point of 95%.
- Graduates from a university must have a GPA of at least 3.75.
Work With a Student Visa in the UAE
Working in the UAE while studying on a Student Visa is only possible if you also have a UAE Work Permit. You cannot, however, work full-time. You can only work for four hours straight. Previously, international students were not permitted to work in the UAE except in internship programs approved by their school.
Now that you have all the information you need, it should be easy for you to apply for the visa. But before you do, ensure you have proof of your bank statements and clean credit history. Also, check which documents you need to provide. You can also contact a professional who can help you with the application. If you have any more queries or questions, please write to us. We are always happy to help.
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