The UAE is now the top destination for foreign students. It offers top-of-the-line education, cutting-edge research facilities, and a diverse setting. To attract top talent, the UAE government launched the Golden Visa which is a long-term residence program that allows students of exceptional quality to stay or study within the UAE for 5 or 10 years without any sponsor.
Contrary to the standard 1-year student visa, the Golden Visa offers more stability, work flexibility, as well as benefits for family sponsorship. If you’re an outstanding student, this guide will take you through the procedures for application, the cost, as well as the advantages of obtaining a UAE Student Golden Visa for 2025.
What is the UAE Student Golden Visa?Â
The Golden Visa is a”long-term resident permit” that is granted to students who meet a set of academic standards. It permits students to:
(a) Live and work in the UAE for 5-10 years with no sponsor.
(b) Work part-time or create an enterprise while you are studying.
(c) Sponsor relatives (parents, spouse, children, parents).
(d) Travel freely and without restrictions on residency (unlike normal visas, which have to be renewed every year).
This visa was designed to keep top talent in the UAE by encouraging students to pursue careers in areas such as AI and medicine, engineering, and business.
Eligibility Criteria for UAE Student Golden Visa (2025)
In order to be eligible for the Golden Visa as a student, you must fall into one of the following categories:
1. High School Students (National-Level Toppers)
- Minimum 95% score at Secondary school (public or private).
- Recommendation letter from the Ministry of Education or the Emirates School Establishment.
- Attested certificates (e.g. IGCSE, A-Levels through KHDA in Dubai or SPEA at Sharjah ).
- Valid passport and residency permit (if you are already located in the UAE).
2. University graduates who have graduated from UAE institutions
- GPA of 3.5+Â (A-class institutions) as well as 3.8+ (B-class universities).
- Graduated within the last two months.
- The UAE Ministry of Education must accredit the university.
- Attested transcripts and degree, and a recommendation note from your university.
3. International University Graduates (Top 100 Globally Ranked)
- Bachelor’s, Master’s or PhD from a top 100 university (as per the UAE-approved rankings).
- Minimum GPA of 3.5.
- Graduated within the last two years.
- Equivalency certificate from the UAE Minister of Education.
Step-by-Step Application Process (2025)
Step 1: Check Eligibility
- Utilise the ICP UAE Smart App or the GDRFA site in order to verify eligibility.
Step 2: Get an ICP Nomination
Following steps should be followed for ICP nomination
- Log in via UAE Pass.
- Go to Visa – Golden Residence – Nomination Request .
- Upload any required documents (passport documents, academic transcripts or recommendation letters).
- Fee: AED 153.5.
Step 3: Submit Golden Visa Application
If nomination is approved (usually within 1-3 days), submit your nomination via:
- GDRFA(for Dubai residents). (for Dubai residents).
- ICP Smart App (for other Emirates).
- Upload files in PDF format (max 500KB).
Step 4: Cancel Current Visa (If Applicable)
- Visit an Amer Centre (cost: AED 190 ).
Step 5: Medical Examination
- Get a blood test and chest X-ray at a certified centre (AED 323).
Step 6: Obtain Health Insurance
- Visa approval is required for all applicants. (cost AED 800,500/year). ).
Step 7: Biometrics & Emirates ID
- Visit an ICA Centre to have your fingerprints taken.
- Apply for Emirates ID (AED 1,150-1,165 ).
Step 8: Receive Golden Visa
- Digital copy via ICP App or courier delivery (AED 20 for Zajel).
Required Documents
Following documents are mandatory for Golden Visa.
- Passport Copy (6+6 months validity).
- Passport-sized photo (white background).
- Academic certificates (attested).
- Recommendation letter (Ministry of Education/university).
- Residence proof (if you are already in the UAE).
- Medical Fitness Certificate.
- Health insurance certificate.
Benefits of the UAE Student Golden Visa
The UAE golden Visa has so many benefits. Some of them are given below.
- No Sponsors Needed! Full independence.
- Work while studyingPart-time jobs or startup companies are permitted.
- Sponsor Family: Bring spouses, parents or your children.
- Long-Term Residency 5 or 10 year term and renewable.
- Travel Flexibility: You can travel abroad for more than six months without losing your residency.
LBMS & Golden Visa for Students
LBMS provides a full range of support to applicants to apply for the UAE Golden Visa, streamlining the application process to provide an efficient and seamless experience. They assist with the preparation of documents which includes the acceptance of academic papers, receiving letters of recommendation which are issued from the Ministry of Education or accredited universities, and collecting documentation of the residency of the applicant or evidence that insurance is in place. LBMS will also help students in applying online using the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICP) portal or through specialized platforms specially created for the emirate such as the TAMM platform in Abu Dhabi. They will make sure that all applications have been completed and that the application fee has been paid. They also assist dependent sponsors, which enables students to include their family members to benefit from their visa. They also provide post-approval services such as medical tests coordination as well as Emirates ID processing. By getting rid of bureaucratic hurdles, LBMS enables students to concentrate on their studies while also securing permanent residency for their relatives and their family members within the UAE.
Conclusion
The UAE student Golden Visa is an exciting opportunity for students who are highly achieving with a long-term outlook and opportunities for career advancement in one of the fastest-growing economies. If you follow the step-by-step procedure to apply, obtain the correct documents and meet the eligibility requirements for the visa, you’ll be able to get this highly sought-after visa and open the door to an opportunity to make a difference in the UAE.
FAQ’S
Q: What is the time frame for this Golden Visa nomination?Â
A: Usually, it takes 1-3 days if the documents are in order.
Q: What is the maximum time I can work with a Student Golden Visa?Â
A: The answer is yes, once you have completed your graduation, you are able to transition into a work visa
Q: What does it mean if my grade is lower than 3.5?Â
A: You may require a strong recommendation letter from your school.
For more information, go to the official ICP website or contact the student affairs office of your university.
