Visa for NYU Abu Dhabi

International faculty and researchers enter the United Arab Emirates on different types of visas, depending on their length of visit, appointment, and/or country of citizenship. Regardless of visa type, all individuals hired to work at NYUAD, must first receive UAE Security Clearance. After receiving Security Clearance, NYUAD’s Office of Immigration and Relocation Services works with faculty to determine the appropriate visa type, assists faculty throughout the application process, and will gladly answer questions, should they arise.

Visit Visa: Granted upon arrival

Validity period: 30 days from the date of first arrival, extendable for another 30 days of consecutive stay only; validity for a maximum of 60 days total. Citizens of EU countries and South Korea will receive a non-renewable visa that is valid for a total of 90 days over a six-month period, with a maximum allowable stay of 180 days per calendar year.

Summary of process: No paperwork needed initially. For extension, must apply by submitting passport to NYUAD’s Office of Immigration and Relocation Services before the 30 day expiration date.

Visit Visa: Pre-Arranged

Validity period: 30 or 90 days, non-extendable.

Summary of process: Advance paperwork required. NYUAD’s office of Academic HR Affairs works with the faculty member to complete the Visit Visa Request form (requires NYU credentials to view) on their behalf. Once the form is completed, NYUAD’s Office of Immigration and Relocation Services works with an external service provider to apply for the visa on the visitor’s behalf.

Mission Visa

Validity period: 90 days, non-extendable

Summary of process: NYUAD’s Office of Immigration and Relocation Services applies for this type of visa on the faculty member’s behalf with the UAE Ministry of Human Resources & Emiratisation. All information needed for this visa application has already been submitted by the faculty member during the UAE Security Clearance Process. This visa is single entry and cancellation of the visa is required after the visa holder has exited the UAE.

Residence Visa

Validity period: 2 years initially; then renewable every 2 years.

Summary of process: Multiple entries. Advance paperwork needed. Medical test and fingerprinting required in the UAE after entry. Legalized degree or diploma required. Cannot stay outside UAE for longer than 180 days. Cancellation required prior to exit if the visa holder leaves permanently. For more information, please see the UAE Residency Visa webpage.