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Is there a stay-back or post-study work permit option available in Dubai in UAE?

25 Jun 2026 · Answered by Abhishek Mehta · 1 min read
Abhishek Mehta
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Yes, Dubai offers options for international graduates to stay and seek work after studies, but there is no dedicated post-study work visa (PSW) like in some other countries.

- Job Seeker Visa: Allows recent graduates to stay in the UAE for 60 - 120 days to find a job. Eligibility usually requires graduation from a top 500 university (as recognized by the UAE Ministry of Education) within the last two years, plus a financial guarantee.
- Employment Visa: Once you secure a job offer, your employer can sponsor your employment visa. You must wait for your work permit before starting employment.
- Golden Visa: Exceptional graduates and top academic performers may qualify for a long-term residence visa (5 or 10 years), which allows living and working in the UAE without a sponsor.

Visa policies and requirements are subject to change. For personalized guidance, connect with your LeapScholar counsellor.

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Pallavi Attri
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Yes, Dubai offers several stay back and post-study work visa options for international graduates:

- Job Seeker Visa: Allows you to stay in the UAE for 60, 90, or 120 days to find a job. You must have graduated within the last two years from a top 500 university (as recognized by the UAE Ministry of Education) and hold at least a bachelor's degree. A financial guarantee is required.

- Employment Visa: Once you secure a full-time job, your employer will sponsor your employment visa, valid for two years. You cannot start work until the permit is issued.

- Golden Visa: Exceptional graduates from top-ranked universities may be eligible for a 5 or 10-year visa, allowing full work rights and family sponsorship without needing an Emirati sponsor.

- Green Visa: For skilled workers and freelancers who meet certain qualifications and income requirements, this self-sponsored visa is valid for five years and allows family sponsorship.

Visa rules and eligibility criteria are subject to change. For personalized guidance on the best option for you, please connect with your LeapScholar counsellor.

Swastika Ghosh
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No, Dubai does not offer a direct post-study work visa like the UK's Graduate Route. However, international graduates in Dubai have several pathways to stay and work after their studies:

- Job Seeker Visa: Stay for 60, 90, or 120 days to search for a job. Eligibility depends on graduating from a top 500 global university and meeting financial requirements.
- Employment Visa: If you secure a job offer, your employer can sponsor a 2-year employment visa.
- Golden Visa: Exceptional graduates and top performers may qualify for a 10-year residence visa, which includes family sponsorship.
- Green Visa: Skilled workers, freelancers, or self-employed individuals meeting specific criteria can apply for a 5-year self-sponsored residence visa.

Visa rules and eligibility are subject to change. For guidance on the best option for your profile, connect with your LeapScholar counsellor.

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