Visa Officer

Location: Royal Roads University, Ras Al Khaimah, UAE Employment Type: Full-Time  About the RoleRoyal Roads University, Ras Al Khaimah Campus, is seeking a proactive and detail-oriented Executive / Senior Executive – Visa & Administration to manage the complete visa lifecycle for students and employees while supporting key administrative and operational functions of the campus.The successful candidate will take end-to-end ownership of all immigration related processes, ensuring compliance with RAKEZ and UAE immigration regulations, timely processing of applications, and effective coordination with internal stakeholders and government authorities. Key ResponsibilitiesVisa & Immigration ManagementManage the complete lifecycle of student and employee visas, including new applications, renewals, amendments, cancellations, status changes, Medicals, Biometrics and related documentation.Process student visa applications in line with admissions timelines and ensure timely submission through the RAKEZ portal.Process work permits, employment visas, entry permits, Emirates ID applications and residence visa renewals for employees.Apply for and renew employee work permits in accordance with applicable regulations.Monitor visa validity and proactively plan renewals to avoid delays or penalties.Maintain accurate visa records, trackers and compliance documentation.Government LiaisonAct as the primary point of contact with RAKEZ, immigration authorities and other relevant government departments.Respond promptly to observations, document deficiencies and compliance requirements raised by the authorities.Stay updated on changes to UAE immigration and free zone regulations and ensure institutional compliance.Cross-Functional CoordinationCoordinate closely with the Admissions Team for student onboarding and visa processing.Liaise with the Student Affairs Team regarding student documentation, visa renewals and insurance requirements.Work with the HR and Finance teams to facilitate employee visa processing, insurance issuance, fee payments and related approvals.Ensure smooth coordination among all stakeholders to achieve timely visa processing.Administration & Operations SupportProvide administrative support for day-to-day campus operations whenever required.Assist with operational, facility management and general administration activities to ensure smooth campus functioning.Support compliance audits and maintain proper documentation and filing systems.Required Skills & QualificationsBachelor's degree.Minimum 2+ years of experience in UAE visa and immigration processing, preferably within a Free Zone environment.Excellent knowledge of Microsoft Excel, Word and Office applications.Structured thought process and logical thinking.Strong working knowledge of UAE immigration procedures, work permits and residence visa processes.Strong organisational, documentation and record-management skills.Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English.Ability to coordinate effectively with multiple departments and external authorities.Proactive, self-driven and solution-oriented, with the ability to work independently and take complete ownership of assigned responsibilities.High attention to detail with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet strict deadlines.Preferred QualificationsValid UAE driving licence preferred, as the role may require travel to RAKEZ and other government entities.Working knowledge of RAKEZ portal, Exposure to higher education institutions or student visa administration will be an advantage.Experience in campus administration, facilities coordination or general operations will be an added benefit.What We OfferFull-time employment.UAE employment visa sponsorship.Medical insurance.Annual leave and other benefits as per UAE Labour Law and company policy.Opportunity to work in a dynamic and growing international higher education environment.