UAE students: Worried about visas? These countries offer perks, PR routes, tuition refunds – Here’s how

Abu Dhabi: As the international student population continues to surge, the debate over which countries best balance high-quality education with promising post-study opportunities is intensifying. Visa policies and immigration pathways have become crucial deciding factors for students seeking not just a degree, but a future.

At the Gulf News Edufair in Abu Dhabi, leading subject-matter experts deliberated on the topic: ‘Global education trends and the race for post-study opportunity’ during a panel discussion.

Seema Krishna, Head Counsellor and Assistant Manager at Score Plus Education, remains optimistic about traditional destinations like the US and Canada, despite recent political and visa uncertainties.
“All these countries require quality students. If the student is genuine, has good academic and financial backgrounds, study permits are never nied.”

Krishna underlined that despite policy shifts, the demand for international students remains constant.

“Irrespective of government policies and changes, all these countries require international students because they bring in a lot of revenue. International students often pay twice as much as in-state students.”

She noted the importance of student fit over destination hype.
“Ask yourself, are you the right fit for the US, Canada, the UK, or Europe? Focus on building a strong profile rather than chasing trends.”

Tejas Labhshetwar, Founder and CEO of Gyanberry, highlighted Germany’s strong positioning.
“Germany has struck a very good balance in terms of the ability to work part-time. After graduation, students can work from 12 to 18 months, and then you can apply for a PR as well.”
He noted that despite recent scrutiny, Canada remains a solid option.
“The post-study work permit and PR are still in place. And don’t overlook emerging destinations. The UAE is a good destination.”

Shivani Kumar, CSO and Head of Partnerships at UniHawk Global, agreed that destination matters less than a student’s authenticity. “If you're genuine and academically sound, your permit won’t be denied,” she noted, adding an interesting twist: “In Malta, graduates can get 70 per cent of their tuition reimbursed if they work in the country for two years.”

Gagandeep Singh, who handles Business Development at Y-Axis Middle East, highlighted Europe’s growing appeal among international students, citing affordability, opportunity, and evolving immigration policies as key factors.
“It's not just about Canada or the US anymore Europe, particularly Germany, is becoming a top choice.”

Singh noted that many private universities in Germany remain affordable.
“If you study well and build the right network, you can do your internships during summer breaks at top companies. Thus, Europe stands out now because of its flexibility and improved immigration policies. Things have changed for good,” he noted.

Muhammad Zaid Qadri, COO of Qadri International Educational Consultancy, said the UK is also making strides. “The UK has relaxed its immigration rules as well, and their post-graduation work permits are already in place,” he said.

Meanwhile, Albania is quietly entering the scene as well. Agron Hoxha, Director at Western Balkans University in Tirana, Albania, said: “We offer affordable living, beautiful surroundings, and degrees recognised across Europe. Students from India, UAE, and 25 more countries are choosing Albania now.”