The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has announced a 5-year Golden Residency visa for high-achieving secondary school students who demonstrate outstanding academic performance.
The new initiative is aimed at attracting talented and academically excellent students to the UAE by offering them long-term residency benefits without requiring a traditional local sponsor.
According to the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP), eligible students can obtain a five-year UAE Golden Residency permit, along with residency benefits for their immediate family members.
UAE Golden Visa for High-Achieving Students
Under the new policy, students who meet the required academic criteria can live in the UAE without being sponsored by an employer or an individual.
The Golden Residency also provides eligible students with greater opportunities to continue their education, work and invest in the UAE without depending on a local sponsor.
Parents and siblings of eligible students can also benefit from the residency arrangement, allowing families to stay together in the UAE for the duration of the residency.
Unlike conventional residence visas, the UAE Golden Visa is designed to provide long-term and more independent residency to individuals considered to have exceptional talent, skills or achievements.
Eligibility Criteria for UAE Student Golden Visa
The UAE authorities have set specific requirements for secondary school students seeking the five-year Golden Residency.
Students must meet the following conditions:
- They must have obtained at least 95% marks in their examinations.
- They must obtain an official recommendation letter from the UAE Ministry of Education.
- Applicants must provide their academic qualification certificate.
- Proof of achieving 95% or higher marks must be submitted.
- Relevant certificates, verification documents and recommendation letters issued by the school or educational institution may also be required.
Meeting the academic requirement alone may not be sufficient, as applicants must also provide the required official documentation and recommendations.
Benefits of the 5-Year UAE Golden Residency
The Golden Residency offers several advantages to outstanding students and their families.
Eligible students can:
- Live in the UAE for up to five years.
- Continue their education in the country.
- Work and pursue professional opportunities.
- Invest in the UAE subject to applicable laws and regulations.
- Reside without depending on a traditional local sponsor or employer.
Their eligible family members can also receive residency benefits under the program.
UAE Golden Visa Program
The UAE Golden Visa program was introduced to attract exceptional talent, skilled professionals, investors, entrepreneurs, researchers and high-achieving individuals from around the world.
Depending on the category, Golden Residency permits can provide long-term residency for five or ten years.
By extending opportunities to outstanding students, the UAE is strengthening its efforts to attract talented young people and encourage them to pursue higher education and future careers in the country.
The latest announcement is expected to attract the attention of high-performing students, parents and international education applicants looking for long-term study and career opportunities in the UAE.



