Types of visas for Dubai

If you want to travel to Dubai to study and work, you are in the perfect place to make it happen.

Tipos de visados para Dubai Dingoos

If you’ve made it this far, it’s because you are excited about the idea of spending time in one of the most fascinating and cosmopolitan cities in the world: Dubai! You are in the right place to find all the information you need about the different types of visas available for studying, working, and living in Dubai.

As the saying goes, “seek and you shall find,” so stop searching because we are about to tell you everything you need to know about the visas required to make your dream of experiencing life in Dubai come true. We will review the requirements for each type of visa and offer some practical tips that will be very helpful before you embark on your journey.

Get ready to discover everything you need to know to start your adventure in Dubai!

Do I need a visa to travel to Dubai?

The need for a visa to travel to Dubai depends on several factors: the purpose of your trip, your nationality, and the duration of your stay. It’s important to be clear about these aspects before planning your adventure in this dazzling city.

For example, some nationalities do not need to apply for a visa before traveling to Dubai if their intention is to visit or study for up to 90 days. This “Visa on Arrival” is obtained upon arrival and is perfect for short stays without prior administrative complications.

However, if your plan is to stay longer, work, or pursue more extended studies, you will need to apply for a specific visa before your trip. There are several visa options available depending on your needs and the duration of your stay, each with particular requirements and benefits.

Would you like to know if you need a visa to travel to Dubai? Do you want to know all your visa options based on your nationality, the purpose of your trip, and the duration of your stay? Keep reading and discover all the information you need to choose the right visa and make your dream of living in Dubai come true!

Without visa (Visa on Arrival)

If you are a citizen of some fortunate countries, traveling to Dubai can be a very simple process. You do not need to apply for a visa in advance if your stay is for tourism or studies and does not exceed 90 days. This visa is known as “Visa on Arrival.” Upon arriving in Dubai, they simply stamp your passport, and you’re done! You can start your adventure without any complicated procedures.

Among the countries whose citizens can enjoy this facility are:

  • Argentina
  • Chile
  • Colombia
  • Costa Rica
  • El Salvador
  • Honduras
  • European Union countries (except Ireland)
  • Paraguay
  • Peru
  • Uruguay
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Requirements

To obtain the “Visa on Arrival,” you must meet the following basic requirements:

  • Valid passport: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of your arrival in Dubai.
  • Entry and exit flight tickets: You will need a flight ticket that confirms your entry to Dubai and your exit from the country within the permitted 90-day period.
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Price

One of the great advantages of the “Visa on Arrival” is that it is completely free. You will not have to pay any additional fees to obtain this visa upon arrival in Dubai.

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Does it allow you to work?

It is important to note that the “Visa on Arrival” does not allow you to work legally in Dubai. This visa is designed solely for those who wish to visit the country as tourists or for short-term studies.

Another crucial consideration is that the “Visa on Arrival” does not allow you to extend your stay in Dubai beyond the 90 days. If you wish to stay in Dubai for a longer period, you will need to leave the country and apply for an appropriate visa for your needs, such as a student or work visa, before returning.

This option is ideal if you plan a short stay and want to enjoy what Dubai has to offer without worrying about long visa application processes. However, if your plans include working or staying longer, it is crucial that you explore other visa options that suit your needs.

Keep reading to discover more about the different visas available for Dubai or fill out the form below and a Dingoos Guide will contact you to offer personalized and free advice.

Looking for a visa to study in Dubai?

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    Tourist Visa

    If your nationality is not among those that can obtain a “Visa on Arrival” and you want to study in Dubai for up to 12 weeks, you can opt for the tourist visa.

    This visa is ideal for those who want to experience life in Dubai while attending an English course or another short educational program.

    We recommend applying for this visa at least 50 days before your course begins to ensure everything is in order before your trip.

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    Requirements

    To obtain the tourist visa, you must meet the following requirements:

    • Passport valid for at least 6 months: Ensure your passport is valid for the entire period of your stay in Dubai.
    • 2 passport-sized photos: These must be recent and meet the required specifications of size and white background.
    • Entry and exit flight tickets: You must have a ticket that confirms both your arrival and departure from Dubai within the period allowed by the visa.
    • Acceptance letter from the school in Dubai: You must present an official letter from the school where you have been accepted to study.
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    Price

    The fees for the tourist visa vary according to the duration of your stay and whether you need a single or multiple entry to the country:

    • Up to 30 days with single entry: $90 USD
    • Up to 30 days with multiple entries: $136 USD
    • Up to 90 days with single entry: $177 USD
    • Up to 90 days with multiple entries: $231 USD

    It is important to consider these fees when planning your budget for studying in Dubai.

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    Does it allow you to work?

    The tourist visa does not allow you to work in Dubai. This visa is intended exclusively for tourism and short-term studies.

    However, one of the advantages of this visa is the flexibility it offers to extend your stay. If after your short studies, you decide you want to stay longer in Dubai, you can renew your tourist visa for other types of visas, such as the student visa, which allows you to work.

    This visa is an excellent option for those who want an introduction to life in Dubai, allowing you to explore the city and its culture while studying. If you later decide you want to prolong your stay and perhaps work, you will be able to take the necessary steps to change your visa once you are there. So get ready for your educational adventure in Dubai!

    Short-Term Student Visa

    • Regardless of your nationality, if you want to study an English course in Dubai for a period of 8 to 24 weeks and also want to work full-time while studying, the short-term student visa is your best option. This visa is specifically designed for students who seek to combine their studies with work experience in Dubai.

    Depending on the duration of your course in Dubai, you can opt for one of the following visa options:

    • Short Term Visa for courses between 8 and 12 weeks: Ideal for those seeking a shorter stay and want to maximize their time in an intensive course.
    • Short Term Visa for courses between 12 and 24 weeks: Perfect for those who want a more prolonged and complete experience in Dubai, allowing for a deeper immersion in both studies and local culture.
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    Requirements

    To apply for the short-term student visa, you must meet the following requirements:

    • Passport valid for at least 6 months: Ensure your passport is valid for the entire period of your stay in Dubai.
    • 2 passport-sized photos: These must be recent and meet the required specifications.
    • Entry and exit flight tickets: You will need a ticket that confirms both your arrival and departure from Dubai within the period allowed by the visa.
    • Acceptance letter from your school in Dubai: This letter must be official and issued by the school where you have been accepted to study.
    • Health insurance: It is mandatory to have health insurance that covers the entire period of your stay in Dubai.
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    Price

    The cost of the short-term student visa is $340 USD for a period of 90 days. This visa allows a single entry into the country.

    If your course lasts up to 180 days, you will need to process two short-term visas of 90 days each. You must ensure to apply for the second visa before the first one expires. The total cost for a 180-day stay will be $680 USD ($340 USD x 2).

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    Does it allow you to work?

    Yes, one of the great advantages of the short-term student visa is that it allows you to work full-time while studying. This means you can gain valuable work experience and help finance your stay in Dubai while improving your English. It is an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in the professional environment of a dynamic and global city like Dubai, acquiring skills that will be useful in your future career.

    This visa is ideal for those seeking a balance between studies and work, allowing you to make the most of your time in Dubai. Get ready for an unforgettable experience that combines learning and professional growth in one of the world’s most vibrant cities.

    estudiar en dubai inerior

    Long-Term Student Visa

    If you plan to pursue extended studies in Dubai, the long-term student visa, valid for one year, is the ideal option for you. This visa offers the opportunity to immerse yourself in a complete educational and cultural experience, allowing you to study and work in one of the most dynamic cities in the world.

    One of the main advantages of this visa is that it includes medical insurance for up to one year. However, it is important to note that this insurance will only be available after the third month of your stay. Therefore, you must obtain medical insurance for the first three months before traveling. This detail is crucial to ensure you are covered from the moment you arrive in Dubai.

    Additionally, this visa allows students to work full-time while studying. This means that you can not only advance your academic education but also gain valuable work experience and help finance your stay in Dubai.

    Another important benefit is that you can travel to Dubai with a one-way plane ticket, unlike the short-term student visa, making your trip planning easier.

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    Requirements

    To obtain the long-term student visa, you must meet the following requirements:

    • Passport with a minimum validity of 12 months: Your passport must be valid for the entire period of your stay in Dubai.
    • 2 passport-sized photos: They must be recent and comply with the required size and background specifications.
    • Acceptance letter from your school in Dubai: You will need an official letter from the educational institution confirming your admission.
    • Medical insurance: You must have medical insurance for the first three months of your stay, as the included insurance begins after the third month.
    • Negative medical tests for HIV, tuberculosis, and hepatitis C: These tests are necessary to ensure you can study and live in Dubai safely.
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    Price

    The cost of the long-term student visa is $1,200 USD. This price includes the medical exams you will take in Dubai, biometrics, and one year of medical insurance.

    Although the cost may seem high, consider that it includes several significant advantages that will help you have a safer and more comfortable experience in Dubai.

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    Can you work?

    Yes, as we have mentioned, the long-term student visa allows you to work full-time while studying. This is a great opportunity for students to gain relevant work experience, contribute to their living expenses, and enrich their stay in Dubai by immersing themselves in the local professional environment.

    Working while studying also allows you to apply what you learn in your courses in practice, making your educational experience even more enriching.

    This visa is perfect for those seeking a complete and extended educational experience in Dubai, combining studies and work in one of the most innovative and cosmopolitan cities in the world. Get ready for a year full of learning, professional growth, and adventures in Dubai!

    And remember, you can fill out our contact form, and a Dingoos Guide will get in touch with you to help resolve any doubts you have about the types of visas for studying and working in Dubai. We look forward to helping you!

    Want to know more about Dubai?

    Keep reading to discover everything you need to know about studying, living, and working in Dubai.

    United Arab Emirates

    Explore the United Arab Emirates! A dynamic country with incredible opportunities to study, work, and enjoy life in Dubai. Discover its vibrant culture and impressive skyline!

    Studying in Dubai

    Studying in Dubai is a unique experience! With top-notch academic programs and a cosmopolitan environment, it's the perfect place to expand your horizons and enjoy new adventures.

    Living in Dubai

    Living in Dubai is a vibrant experience! With its mix of culture, professional opportunities, and modern attractions, an exciting lifestyle full of discoveries awaits you.

    Working in Dubai

    Working in Dubai is exciting! With its thriving economy and diverse job opportunities, you can develop professionally while enjoying a cosmopolitan lifestyle full of possibilities.

    Golden Visa

    The Golden Visa is an exceptional opportunity for those who wish to settle in Dubai for extended periods without needing sponsorship. This temporary residence permit, valid for 5 or 10 years, is designed to attract exceptional individuals, including outstanding students, entrepreneurs, investors, and specialists in various fields such as science, medicine, or engineering, among others.

    This special residence permit allows its holders to study, work, and live in Dubai without the traditional restrictions associated with other types of visas. This means you can enjoy a complete experience in Dubai, exploring academic, professional, and personal opportunities over the long term.

     

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    Requirements

    To be eligible for the Golden Visa, you must meet rigorous criteria that ensure quality and excellence. These requirements vary depending on the different profiles of applicants who can apply for this visa.

    Below are the requirements for the profile of a foreign university student:

    • Prestigious University: You must have completed your studies at a university ranked among the top 100 in the world according to international rankings recognized by the Dubai Ministry of Education. This condition ensures that Golden Visa holders possess a high-level academic background.
    • Cumulative GPA: A cumulative GPA of at least 3.5 during your university studies is required. This grade point average is essential to demonstrate your academic excellence and ability to excel in your field of study.
    • Recent Graduation: You must not have graduated more than two years before applying for the Golden Visa. This condition ensures that applicants are recent graduates or close to graduating, promoting the incorporation of young and fresh talent into Dubai’s professional community.
    • Accredited Certificate: Your university certificate must be accredited by the Dubai Ministry of Education to be valid and recognized in the United Arab Emirates. This measure ensures that your degree meets local educational standards.

    If you want to know the specific requirements for the other profiles of potential Golden Visa applicants, visit the official Emirati Government website.

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    Additional Benefits

    In addition to extended residency and labor and academic freedom, the Golden Visa offers other significant benefits:

    • Access to Services: Golden Visa holders can enjoy world-class healthcare services and high-quality education for their families in Dubai.
    • Ease of Travel: With the Golden Visa, you can enter and leave Dubai without needing an additional visa, facilitating international mobility.
    • Investment Opportunities: Investors and entrepreneurs can take advantage of the favorable business environment in Dubai and the United Arab Emirates in general.

     

    The Golden Visa is an exclusive gateway to a complete and enriching experience in Dubai. For those looking to establish themselves in this thriving global city, this visa represents much more than a residence permit; it is an invitation to fully participate in Dubai’s economic, cultural, and social dynamism. Get ready to make the most of the opportunities Dubai offers with the Golden Visa.

    estudiar en dubai interior

    Work Visas in Dubai

    So far, we’ve talked about various tourist and student visa options, as well as the exclusive Golden Visa. Now, let’s present the specific visas for working in Dubai. If you’re considering moving to this vibrant city to advance your career, keep reading!

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    Standard Work Visa

    The Standard Work Visa is your gateway to working in Dubai for up to 2 years. To obtain this visa, you need sponsorship from an employer in the private sector or the Emirati Government, which means you must have a firm job offer.

    The good news is that you won’t have to worry about the paperwork, as your employer will handle the visa application process for you.

    Requirements

    To apply for the Standard Work Visa, you will need:

    • Passport: Valid for the entire duration of your stay in Dubai.
    • Photographs: Two passport-sized photos.
    • Medical tests: Negative results for HIV, tuberculosis, and hepatitis C.
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    Green Visa

    The Green Visa is ideal for those with an independent spirit. This visa is perfect for skilled workers and freelancers who wish to work in Dubai without needing a sponsor.

    The Green Visa allows you to live and work in Dubai for 5 years, with the possibility of extending it for another 5 years.

    Requirements for Skilled Workers

    To obtain the Green Visa as a skilled worker, you must meet the following requirements:

    • Valid employment contract: You need to have a valid work contract.
    • Minimum salary: You must earn at least $4,084 USD per month.
    • Education: You must hold a bachelor’s degree or higher.
    • Qualified occupations: You must be a professional in one of the level 1, 2, or 3 occupations according to the list of the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization.

    Requirements for Freelancers

    If you are a freelancer, the requirements are slightly different:

    • Education: You must demonstrate having completed university studies (bachelor’s, master’s, or doctorate).
    • Income: You need to prove that in the two years prior to the application, you have earned at least 360,000 AED ($98,017 USD).
    • Freelancer permit: You must present the permit to work as a freelancer issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization.
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    Domestic Worker’s Visa

    The Domestic Worker’s Visa is specific for those who wish to work as domestic employees in Dubai. This visa allows you to work for an Emirati family in roles such as driver, cook, nanny, gardener, private tutor, personal assistant, nurse, or personal trainer, among others.

    The visa duration is 1 to 2 years. All procedures and formalities for the visa application are handled by agencies authorized by the Government, ensuring that the process is managed efficiently and safely.

    Requirements

    To apply for the Domestic Worker’s Visa, you will need:

    • Passport: Valid for both the employer and the domestic worker.
    • Photographs: Passport-sized photos of both the employer and the domestic worker.
    • Bank certificate: From the employer, to ensure the ability to pay the worker’s salary.
    • Employment contract: Copy of the signed contract between the employer and the domestic worker.

    Dubai offers a wide range of work visas that cater to various needs and circumstances. Whether you seek a job opportunity in a company, wish to work independently, or want to be part of a family as a domestic employee, there is a visa that suits your goals.

    Ensure you meet all necessary requirements and get ready to live and work in one of the most dynamic and exciting cities in the world.

    If you want to compare or expand on information about work visas for Dubai, take a look at this section of the official Emirati Government website.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Below, we provide a series of questions and answers to address many of the doubts you may have about the types of visas in Dubai.

    Do I need a visa to travel to Dubai?

    There are certain nationalities that do not need to apply for a visa before traveling to Dubai if their trip is for tourism and/or work for up to a maximum of 90 days. In these cases, you will receive a visa on arrival when you enter the country. Check the “Visa-Free” section on this page to see the eligible nationalities.

    All other nationalities will need to apply for a visa before traveling to Dubai, regardless of the purpose of their visit and the length of their stay.

    Are there mandatory vaccines for traveling to the United Arab Emirates?

    No, there are currently no mandatory vaccines for traveling to Dubai. However, if you come from a country where yellow fever is a risk or if you have had a layover of more than 12 hours in an airport in an affected region, you must be vaccinated against yellow fever and have your international vaccination certificate up to date.

    Even though there are no other mandatory vaccines, we recommend visiting an international vaccination center for personalized advice.

    What happens if my visa expires while I'm in Dubai?

    If you overstay your permitted time in the United Arab Emirates, you will have to pay a fine when you leave the country. The fine is 250 AED (about 68 USD) for the first day and 150 AED (about 41 USD) for each additional day. Overstaying can complicate future visa applications for the country and could result in legal or judicial issues.

    How do I receive the visa to travel to Dubai?

    The visa for Dubai is an electronic document that you will receive by email. You just need to print it and show it at passport control when you arrive in the United Arab Emirates. Each visa will include your personal details, the photo you sent us, and a barcode that will be scanned by Immigration when you enter the country.

    What other requirements besides the visa are needed to enter Dubai?

    As an additional security measure, immigration authorities at Dubai International Airport are conducting random retina scans on some visitors. If you are selected for a retina scan, you will need to present a photocopy of your visa or a copy of the page containing the visa confirmation number at the scanning desk. If you do not have a copy with you, you will need to pay 30 AED (in local currency only) for the photocopy.

    My passport is about to expire. Can I still apply for the Dubai visa?

    To apply for your Dubai visa, ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of your travel. In other words, your passport must not expire within six months after your trip. If your passport does not meet this requirement, you will need to renew it before applying for the visa.

    When will I be asked for my Dubai visa during my trip?

    Before boarding your flight to Dubai or any other Emirate, the airline may ask to see your visa. If you do not have it, they may not let you board the plane. Upon arrival at Dubai or Abu Dhabi airport, you will be asked to present the printed visa at immigration. Sometimes, they may not ask for it because scanning your passport shows that you have a visa in the system. However, it is best to have it with you to avoid any issues and ensure your entry into Dubai (if your nationality requires a visa before traveling to Dubai).

    Could your tourist visa be denied?

    If for some rare reason the Government of Dubai (less than 1% of the time) denies your tourist visa, the initial payment will not be refunded. Additionally, in some special cases, there are additional costs for processing, such as for women under 30 from Morocco or Nigeria, and travelers with Syrian or Palestinian passports.

    How can I get a work visa for Dubai?

    To obtain a work visa for Dubai, a company registered with the UAE Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratization (MoHRE) must apply on behalf of the foreign employee. Business visas can be applied for directly by any suitable individual who meets the requirements for one of Dubai’s sponsored Golden Visas, without needing a local sponsor.

    How does Dingoos help you travel to Dubai to study and work?

    The answer is simple: we assist and accompany you through every phase of your journey to Dubai. Our services are carefully designed to meet all the needs that will arise at each moment of your trip.

    All members of the #DingoosTeam have experienced living, studying, and working abroad. That is why we do what we do. We love sharing our experience to help you avoid the mistakes we made.

    Our goal is to support you not only in the pre-trip formalities but also once you arrive in Dubai.

    You may not realize it yet, but you will need the most support when you arrive. And we will be here to help you. Not only with bureaucratic procedures but also to give you a welcoming hug and connect you with other newly arrived international students like you.

    If you are eager to have an unforgettable experience in Dubai, we are eager to help you make it happen. Contacting us is the first step!

    Do you want to know the available visas for traveling to other countries?

    Keep reading to discover the main types of visas for traveling to Australia, Canada, Ireland, Malta, and the United Kingdom.
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