Who needs a student visa?
International students
International students must have a student visa sponsored by their university. The application process is managed by the institution through the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA).
Required documents:
- Passport with at least six months’ validity
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Recent passport photo, white background, taken at a professional studio
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University admission letter or study certificate confirming course duration
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Emirates ID (if available)
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UAE health insurance card or certificate
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Student Undertaking Letter
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National Identity Card for nationals of Pakistan, Afghanistan and Iraq
UAE residents
Students in the UAE on a family or other residence visa may need to switch to a student residence visa, particularly male students over the age of 25, unless eligible under current parental sponsorship rules. Male students can remain on a parent’s sponsorship until the age of 25, if enrolled in a recognised higher education programme, while female students may stay sponsored until marriage.
Documents typically required for a student visa application include:
- Passport with at least six months’ validity
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Recent passport photo, white background, taken at a professional studio
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Emirates ID
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UAE health insurance card or certificate
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University admission letter or study certificate confirming course duration
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Visa cancellation from current sponsor (if applicable)
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National Identity Card for nationals of Pakistan, Afghanistan and Iraq
GCC nationals
Citizens of GCC countries including Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the UAE do not need a visa to study in Dubai.
Universities will still require standard enrolment documents such as:
- Valid GCC passport or national ID
- Emirates ID
- Academic transcripts or certificates
- University admission letter