Residence visa for studying in the UAE
Student visa
A student can stay in the UAE for studying, either under the sponsorship of his/her parent, who should be a resident of the UAE or under the sponsorship of the accredited university/college he/she is studying at. Universities facilitate the process of getting a visa for the students.
Expatriate residents can sponsor their male child/children up to the age of 25. Therefore, male students over the age of 25 can stay on their parents’ sponsorship if they provide evidence of attending a higher educational institute. Expatriate residents may continue to sponsor their female children for study, regardless of their age, until she is married.
To apply for a student visa, you must submit a certificate issued by the university or institute specifying the duration of the study and meet other general provisions.
Related links
- Apply for a student visa - ICP
- Apply for a student visa – Visit Dubai
- Visa process – Abu Dhabi University
- Visa services – American University of Sharjah
Residence visa for families of university students
Family members of foreign students studying at the UAE’s universities may stay in the UAE, as long as they can afford suitable housing. The Government permitted such a move with the aim to achieve moral stability for the students.
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Golden visa for outstanding students
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Updated on:
18 Feb 2026
