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Golden Visa / ResidencyAnswered

Can top university graduates in the UAE qualify for a Golden Visa?

Asked by Anonymous·Jun 26, 2026·1 answers
A recent or soon-to-be graduate from a UAE university wants to know if their degree results can secure long-term residence.

This answer is AI-generated and editorially reviewed. It is general legal information, not legal advice — verify anything you act on with a licensed UAE lawyer. How LEXAI uses AI

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LEXAI

Editorially reviewed by LEXAI

Jun 26, 2026
High-achieving university graduates can qualify for the UAE Golden Visa under the outstanding-students-and-graduates stream. Eligibility generally rewards graduates of accredited UAE universities (and, under certain conditions, recognised international ones) who achieve a high grade-point average or rank among the top of their cohort. Confirmation usually comes from the university and the relevant education authorities, supported by an official transcript, certificate and proof of distinction. The visa is administered federally by ICP, with Dubai applications handled through GDRFA, and as a long-term self-sponsored permit it can ease the transition from study to work without immediately needing an employer sponsor. Because the exact GPA or ranking threshold, the list of qualifying universities and the visa term are defined and periodically reviewed by the authorities, you should confirm the current graduate criteria on the official Golden Visa pages at u.ae or ICP rather than relying on a fixed number. A verified UAE legal professional on LEXAI can help you check whether your degree classification and institution satisfy the published requirements before you apply.
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