Is there a student visa for studying in Dubai, and how does the work permit process work after studies in UAE?

Yes, Dubai requires a student visa for international students, typically sponsored by your university and valid for one year (renewable annually for your course duration).

After graduation, Dubai does not offer an automatic post-study work visa. Instead, you can apply for options like:

- Job Seeker Visa: Stay 60 - 120 days to look for work if you graduated recently from a top-500 university (as recognized by UAE authorities).
- Employment Visa: Once you secure a job, your employer can sponsor your work permit - do not start working until this is issued.
- Green Visa: Self-sponsored five-year residence for skilled professionals, freelancers, or self-employed who meet specific requirements.
- Golden Visa: Long-term (5 or 10 years) residence for eligible individuals, allowing you to live, work, or study without a sponsor.

Visa rules and eligibility are subject to change. If you need help understanding your best option, contact your LeapScholar counsellor.