The UAE Golden Visa is not just a long-term residence permit, but a golden opportunity for those who want to shape their future with ambition, progress, and innovation. Whether you are a bright student at a school in the UAE, a talented graduate of a prestigious international university, or already making an academic contribution to the UAE this visa provides you with a platform for long-term growth and success.
What is the Golden Visa?
It is a long-term residency program that was launched with the aim of attracting outstanding talent from specific fields. Initially meant for investors and professionals, changes made in April 2022 expanded its reach, and it now also includes exceptionally performing students whether they are from within the country or abroad. The initiative is in line with the UAE’s Centennial 2071 plan, which aims to make the country’s economy knowledge and technology-based.
Key features of the Golden Visa:
5 or 10 years of residency period
No UAE resident sponsor required
6-month multiple-entry visa for residency issuance
Facility to live, study and work independently
Visa remains valid even if you stay abroad for more than six months
Sponsorship of unlimited domestic helpers
Sponsorship of spouse and children of any age
In case of the visa holder’s death, the family can stay in the UAE for the duration of the visa
Eligibility Criteria for Students
The Golden Visa targets meritorious students from two categories:
Outstanding UAE high school students
Minimum 95% marks
Ministry of Education recommendation required
Visa duration: 5 years (may be extended in case of longer studies)
For Abu Dhabi:
Government school students apply through Abu Dhabi Residents Office
Private school students are selected by ADEK
Documents:
Certified Grade 12 certificate
Recommendation Letter (automatically issued to Abu Dhabi government students)
Application Process:
Public schools: Abu Dhabi Residents Office
Private schools: Enrollment by ADEK
Or apply directly: https://icp.gov.ae
University graduates (UAE and international)
A) Graduates from UAE-based universities:
Degree from top 100 local institutions recognized by the UAE Ministry of Education
Minimum GPA:
A category universities: 3.5
B category universities: 3.8
Graduated in the last two years
Degree recognition from Ministry of Education required
Visa duration: 10 years
Application: Through Abu Dhabi Residents Office or ICP portal
B) Graduates from global universities:
Degree from top 100 international universities recognized by the UAE
Minimum GPA: 3.5
Graduated in the last two years
Equivalency certificate from UAE Ministry of Education required
Application Process: Abu Dhabi Residents Office or ICP Portal
Priority Academic Sectors and Government Strategy
The UAE government values academic sectors that are directly linked to national development. Recent expansions have also included futuristic sectors such as renewable energy and space science.
Priority Sectors:
Artificial Intelligence
Big Data
Epidemiology and Virology
Computer and Software Engineering
Electronic and Electrical Engineering
Biotechnology
Genetics and Molecular Engineering
Required Documents:
Certified degree
Academic transcript with proof of GPA 3.5 or higher
University recommendation letter
Legal translation of documents from other languages into Arabic
Recognition of Universities
The UAE government evaluates universities based on a globally accepted ranking system. Applications from students with high rankings and belonging to the appropriate field are given priority.
An opportunity to participate in nation building
The UAE Golden Visa Programme is not just a facility for students but a visionary initiative. “By rewarding academic excellence and supporting future-focused disciplines, the nation is building a robust knowledge economy.” This visa, whether you are a promising student in Abu Dhabi or a recent graduate from an international institution, gives you the opportunity to be part of the UAE’s progressive and innovation-driven future.
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