The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has introduced a five-year Golden Residency visa for outstanding secondary school students.
The new scheme will allow high-performing students to live in the UAE without a local sponsor. Their families can also benefit from the residency arrangement.
The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) has introduced the new residency option for students who have excellent academic results.
Who can apply for the Golden Residency?
Students must meet certain academic conditions to qualify.
They must:
- Score at least 95 per cent in secondary school exams.
- Get a recommendation letter from the UAE Ministry of Education.
- Provide valid academic certificates and official proof of their marks.
- Submit the required verification and recommendation documents from their school or educational institution.
Eligible students can get residency for five years. Their parents and siblings can also receive residency under the scheme.
The purpose of the programme is to attract talented people from different countries. It offers long-term residency to high-achieving students and professionals as well as highly qualified graduates.
What does it mean for Pakistani students?
The new residency option could give Pakistani students a chance to continue their education in the UAE.
What are the rules for Pakistani visitors on visit visas?
Previously, Pakistani citizens travelling to the UAE on visit visas were given important instructions about the rules they must follow during their stay.
The Bureau of Immigration and Overseas Employment in Islamabad issued the guidelines for Pakistanis living in or travelling to the UAE.
The bureau advised Pakistani visitors to follow UAE laws and avoid any activities that are not allowed. It said that following the rules can help visitors avoid legal issues.
According to the guidelines, visitors cannot work in the UAE while on a visit visa. Those who want to stay longer must renew their visa before it expires.
People who stay or work in the UAE illegally may face legal action and other consequences.
Pakistanis have also been advised to be careful about their social media activity.
They should avoid posting content that could be seen as offensive towards the UAE government, culture or other sensitive matters.
