UAE Golden Visa for just Rs 23 lakhs: Know what exactly

UAE Golden Visa: Recent reports circulated in Indian media regarding a “lifetime Golden Visa” for Indians at a cost of around Rs 23 lakh (AED 100,000) have caused a significant stir. However, it’s crucial to understand the latest clarifications and nuances from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) authorities.

Clarification from UAE Authorities: The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP) of the UAE has denied reports of a new “lifetime Golden Visa” at the Rs 23 lakh price point for “certain nationalities,” including Indians.

They have stated that Golden Visa applications are handled exclusively through official government channels and that no external consultancy entities are recognized as authorized parties for such a simplified process.

Apology from a Consultancy Firm: Rayad Group, a Dubai-based visa advisory company that was widely cited in initial reports for making claims about this new visa, has since publicly apologized for spreading false information. They admitted that their previous communications were “incorrect” and committed to being more accurate in the future.

Existing Golden Visa Pathways Remain: The UAE Golden Visa program still exists and offers long-term residency (5 or 10 years, renewable) to eligible individuals.

The confusion stemmed from reports of a “nomination-based” Golden Visa being piloted for Indian and Bangladeshi citizens, supposedly at a much lower cost and without the need for significant investment. While a nomination-based route for individuals who can contribute to the UAE economy has always existed as part of the broader Golden Visa program, it is not a “pay-to-get” scheme for Rs 23 lakh.

The nomination-based visa is granted at the discretion of the UAE government, based on an individual’s professional background, societal contributions, or potential value to specific sectors like culture, trade, science, or finance.

Applicants undergo rigorous vetting, including criminal background, anti-money laundering, and even social media checks. The fee of AED 100,000 (approx. Rs 23.3 lakh) would only apply after an applicant has been successfully nominated and approved by the relevant UAE authority, and it is not a guarantee of a “lifetime” visa that can be simply purchased.

Benefits of the UAE Golden Visa:

Long-term residency: Typically 5 or 10 years, which is renewable.

No local sponsor required: Unlike traditional visas.

Ability to live, work, and study in the UAE.

Family sponsorship: Golden Visa holders can sponsor their spouse, children (no age limit), parents, and an unlimited number of domestic helpers.

Flexibility: Ability to stay outside the UAE for extended periods without losing residency.

Access to world-class infrastructure: Healthcare, education, and banking.

Potential path to citizenship: After 30 years of residency, foreigners can apply for UAE citizenship, with potential for faster approval for those offering exceptional services.

Tax advantages: The UAE has no personal income tax, capital gains tax, or inheritance tax.
While the UAE is keen to attract global talent and investment, the widely circulated news about a “lifetime Golden Visa for Indians for Rs 23 lakhs” as a straightforward purchase is incorrect and has been debunked by the UAE authorities and the consultancy firm that initially made the claims.

The Golden Visa remains a merit-based or investment-based program with specific eligibility criteria.

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