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Dubai Student Visa 2024: Application Process, Imp Documents & Eligibility

Updated on 05 January, 2024

Neha Uppal

Neha Uppal

Sr. Content editor

Dubai, one of the seven emirates of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), is a popular destination for students seeking higher education. The city offers the finest academic programs, including undergraduate and graduate degrees, vocational training, and language courses. The highly recognized and globally renowned degrees provide job opportunities domestically and internationally. To study in Dubai, international students need to obtain a student visa. In this article, we will provide a detailed guide on the process of getting a Dubai study visa.

 

Dubai Student Visa: Documents Requirements

In Dubai, international students have access to top institutions and colleges. To receive a freshman Dubai student visa for India, the applicant must first obtain an official acceptance letter from the university where they will study. A certificate of continued education is required for senior students. Here is a list of documents required. 

  • Duly filled online application form with the signature of the applicant
  • Two recent Passport size photos (not older than three months)
  • Student declaration form
  • Original passport along with a photocopy of current and old passport that have valid UAE residence visa page
  • A Bonafide certificate from the concerned Indian educational institution
  • Photocopy of a demand draft of $1500 in the student's name 
  • Prior approval from CGI Dubai
  • In the case of minors, a passport copy of the parent and NOC is required
  • Students will also require a valid medical certificate issued by a government-approved health center in the UAE. Candidates above 18 must undergo medical examinations for TB, HIV, Hepatitis B and C, Syphilis, and Leprosy.

How to Apply for a UAE Student Visa

The following sections contain information on obtaining a student visa in Dubai.

Types of Dubai Study Visa  

Family-Sponsored Study Visa: 

Full-time international students enrolled in a university can apply for a Dubai student visa under the sponsorship of their parents. 

Educator-Sponsored Study Visa: 

If the educational institution adheres to the UAE standards, it can facilitate the sponsorship of full-time students. Dubai student visas for Indian students can be received as per their degree duration.

Dubai Study Visa for a brief stay: 

If the duration of the course is a few months long, students can apply for a short-term student visa. It allows for a 60-day stay and can be expanded if required.

Golden Visa: The revised visa program in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) offers a 10-year extended golden visa program, a five-year green residence program to promote talented employees, and a new tourist visa to allow visitors to stay in the country for up to 90 days. It is the best opportunity for students and job seekers in the UAE.

Dubai Study Visa 2023: Eligibility & Other Requirements

The type of Dubai Study Visa you apply for determines your eligibility. In general, to be eligible to study in Dubai, you must satisfy the following Dubai study visa requirements:

  • You must be at least 18 years old to apply.
  • Get an official approval letter from the UAE university.
  • The university must provide an official acceptance letter.
  • A certificate of continued study is necessary for older students.
  • A document showing that you have passed your medical tests.
  • Approval from the competent General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA).
  • A visa sponsor from the university or a parent or family.
  • For a long-term Dubai Study Visa, students must graduate with at least 95% from any school. University students must pass with a minimum distinguishing GPA of 3.75 from both domestic and international universities. 

Other Documents needed include:

  • Personal Photo
  • A copy of the passport, with a minimum validity of six months
  • An acceptance letter from the educational institution

Steps to Obtain a Dubai Student Visa

Obtaining a Dubai student visa is an easy process. The following are the processes to apply for a Dubai student visa:

Apply for admission to a university in Dubai

The first step is to apply for admission to a university or college in Dubai. Provide your academic transcripts, English proficiency test scores, and other relevant documentation.

Receive an acceptance letter 

Once you have been accepted, the university or college will offer you an acceptance letter to proceed with your visa application.

Apply for a student visa

The next step is to apply for a Dubai student visa for Indian students. You can do this online through the UAE government's website or by visiting your nearest UAE embassy or consulate.

Online Channels

The following are the online methods for applying for entrance permits:

  • The eChannels website: Individuals and enterprises registered in the UAE can apply for a new visa or a visa renewal using the ICA site. They need to sign up to apply.
  • The GDRFA website: Visas to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) can be obtained online through the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA). Dubai's GDRFA has another website, Amer.ae, where Dubai nationals and residents can apply for entrance permits.
  • Apps for mobile devices: Apply for an entrance permit and a resident visa in the UAE through:
  1. – the ICA UAE eChannels for Apple and Android users.
  2. – the GDRFA Dubai app for Apple and Android users.

Offline Channels

The offline ways for applying for entrance permits are as follows:

  • Typing centers: Offline visa applications are made through licensed typing facilities, where the visa application is typed and processed through the GDRFA of the appropriate emirate. After approval, the sponsor will get information about the approval as well as the actual entrance permission.
  • Amer centers: The Dubai government requires all entrance permit and visa procedures to be conducted through its Amer centers. 
  • Submit the required documents: You will need to provide the documents when applying for a student visa.
  • Pay the visa fee: You will need to pay a fee for your student visa. The fee varies depending on the duration of your stay and the type of visa you are applying for.
  • Wait for your visa to be processed: Once you have submitted your application and paid the fee, you will need to wait for your visa to be processed. This can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks.

The processing time for Dubai Student Visa is approximately 10-15 working days before your selected university receives the Student Entry Permit. The permit is valid for two months and should be used to enter the country within the date specified on the visa.

Validity and Fee for UAE Student Visa

A student visa is typically provided for one year and can be extended yearly as per the duration of your study. To renew your Student Visa, you must obtain confirmation from the institution you are enrolled.

The following Dubai student visa for Indian fees must be paid by international students seeking a Dubai Study Visa. The fees may vary depending on the program, university, and type of application. However, the Dubai student visa for Indian fees listed below needs to be paid:

  • Student Visa Fee (includes visa processing fees, Emirates ID, and medical insurance): AED 6,975
  • Visa deposit refundable: AED 2,500

Can a Student Work with a UAE Student Visa?

Yes, students with a UAE student visa can work part-time while studying. However, they need to meet the following specific criteria to work in Dubai.

  1. A student must be over the age of 18.
  2. They must be enrolled in one of the 23 academic institutes in Dubai's creative clusters.
  3. Students must be sponsored by their university.
  4. They must meet the university's academic qualifications.

Conclusion

Studying in Dubai requires a lot of preparation, and students will want to know all they can about it. Getting a Dubai student visa for Indian students is one of the essential aspects for students seeking higher education in the country. With the right preparation and research, you can get the Dubai student visa seamlessly and open the doors to a prosperous academic and professional career.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can a student receive a resident visa to live and work in the United States after finishing their studies?

Students with outstanding grades can get a 5-year long-term residence visa from Dubai and the UAE government. It allows students to find jobs, receive work permits, and establish permanent residency in the nation. Another option is to get a work permit through the company you are employed in. 

What are the benefits of getting a Dubai residence visa?

  1. Access to government healthcare facilities and health insurance coverage.
  2. Getting a bank account
  3. Getting a personal loan or a vehicle loan
  4. Getting your driver's license 
  5. Visa-free travel to numerous countries

Can I extend my Dubai study visa?

Yes, you can extend your Dubai one-year study visa by applying at the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA).

Neha Uppal

Sr. Content editor

Neha Uppal is a passionate content creator and editor. She carries 7.5+ years of experience working with leading edutech companies where she worked as a Faculty, Community Manager, and Content Marketeer. At upGrad, she is helping out people keep informed about the scopes and opportunities of studying abroad via informational articles/blogs.

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