HOW TO SECURE A GOLDEN VISA AS A STUDENT IN THE UAE
The United Arab Emirates stands as a beacon of progress and opportunity in the Middle East, attracting individuals from across the globe with its dynamic economy, vibrant cultural tapestry, and educational opportunities. For students dreaming of leveraging their academic pursuits into long-term residency in the UAE, the Golden Visa presents a golden opportunity.
Abu Dhabi: The UAE offers a unique opportunity for students and recent graduates to extend their stay in the United Arab Emirates through the prestigious Golden Visa. This visa provides a long-term residence permit, available for 5 or 10 years, based on academic excellence.
This comprehensive guide explains how to secure a Golden Visa as a student in the UAE, providing you with a pathway to potentially extend your stay and deepen your educational and professional experiences.
What is the UAE Golden Visa?
Introduced in 2019, the UAE Golden Visa is a long-term residency program that allows foreign nationals to live, work, and study in the UAE with more stability than typical visa options. For students, this visa not only underscores the UAE’s commitment to attracting and retaining talented individuals but also offers an array of benefits that enhance both academic and career prospects.
Eligibility Criteria for Students
To qualify for a Golden Visa as a student, individuals must meet certain academic standards. The UAE primarily targets students displaying outstanding academic performance. Here are the key criteria:
University Students with Top Grades:
- Exceptional graduates from UAE-accredited universities or outstanding students from recognized foreign universities are eligible.
- Students must have a GPA of at least 3.75 (or equivalent) in their undergraduate or graduate studies from certified universities within or outside the UAE.
- University graduates must apply for their Golden Visa within the emirate where their current visa was issued
High School Students with Excellence:
High school students can also qualify if they have distinction in their academic performance, with conditions stipulating top grades and recommendations from top-tier institutions.
- High school students can apply for a 5-year Golden Visa.
- The visa can be extended beyond 5 years for students enrolled in certain majors or courses that require longer study periods.
University Classification
The classification of the university attended by the applicant plays a crucial role in the documentation required for the Golden Visa. Applicants should verify their university’s classification through its website or by contacting its administrative department. The application process may also vary depending on the educational institution’s governing authority.
Application Process
To begin the application process:
- Secure ICP nomination approval before visiting an Amer service center.
- Check if your GPA meets the required threshold, typically 3.8, although some universities accept a GPA of 3.5 for graduates with ICP nomination.
Steps to Apply:
- Documentation:
Prepare your academic records, proof of eligibility, passport copies, and a sponsorship application if you are applying with family members.
- Nomination & Submission:
You may be nominated through your university based on academic excellence. Alternatively, you can initiate a self-nomination through the UAE’s official immigration portals.
- Visit www.icp.com and select “Golden Visa” under Services.
- Start the “Nomination Request for Golden Residence – New Request” and complete the application form.
- Attach the necessary documents, pay the application fees, and submit your application either online through the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA) or the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in Dubai.
- Upon receiving ICP approval, visit the nearest Amer service center with the required documents. Alternatively, applications can be made through the GDRFA website, smart application, or Customer Happiness Centres.
- Review and Approval:
The application will undergo a review process. If additional information or interviews are required, you will be notified.
- Issuance:
Upon approval, you will be instructed on how to collect your visa and complete any remaining formalities.
Benefits of the Golden Visa for Students
Securing a Golden Visa as a student comes with numerous advantages:
- Long-term Residency: Enjoy up to a 10-year renewable residency without the need for a national sponsor.
- Family Inclusion: Ability to sponsor family members, including parents and siblings, to live in the UAE.
- Employment Opportunities: Students can work during their study and also seek employment post-graduation without the hassle of changing their visa status.
- Stability: Provides a sense of security and stability, allowing students to make long-term educational and career plans in the UAE.
Costs Involved
The cost of obtaining a Golden Visa can vary depending on various factors, including processing fees and whether you apply through standard or expedited channels. It’s advisable to budget for application fees, issuance costs, and potential consultancy fees if you are using a legal advisor to help with your application.
In Conclusion:
The UAE Golden Visa represents a significant opportunity for students to transform their educational endeavors into a long-term presence in one of the world’s most dynamic regions. By meeting the academic requirements and navigating the application process effectively, ambitious students can secure not just a visa, but a promising future in the UAE.
For students aiming high and dreaming big, the UAE Golden Visa isn’t just a document—it’s a gateway to unprecedented opportunities in education, career advancement, and personal growth in a land that values vision and ambition.
The Golden Visa in Dubai not only opens the door to prolonged residence in the UAE but also offers students the chance to leverage educational achievements for long-term benefits and opportunities in the region.
ABS Partners: Your Trusted Legal Consultants
Our team has a distinguished track record of providing precise and effective legal advice, as well as representing individuals and businesses in the UAE to successfully complete their targets. We are dedicated to swiftly assist with the Golden Visa application process in the UAE, from preparation stages to submission and government interactions, especially for students who may not be familiar with the complexities of immigration laws and regulations while leveraging our wealth of expertise to comprehensively address our clients’ concerns. If you find yourself in need of further clarity or legal assistance, we encourage you to reach out to us. Your satisfaction and peace of mind are our top priorities, and we are committed to delivering exceptional support every step of the way.
For trustworthy and professional legal services in the UAE, we are your go-to partner, providing customized solutions ensuring your business success. If you’re exploring the option feel free to contact us at +971 54 377 0 774 or Book an appointment
