The United Arab Emirates’ new Golden Visa program, based on nomination for Indians, has caused a stir by providing lifetime residency at a one-time fee of AED 1,00,000 (about ₹23.3 lakh). But far from an automatic process and guaranteed approval by paying the fee alone, the hype is in danger of blowing the reality out of proportion.
The UAE Golden Visa is a permanent residence permit that enables foreign nationals to reside, work, or study in the Emirates. The visa has various advantages, such as five- or ten-year renewable visas, multiple-entry rights, no requirement of a local sponsor, and the ability to sponsor family and domestic assistance.
Significantly, visa residents are even allowed to remain outside the UAE for more than six months without losing residency, unlike the usual visa holders.
Eligibility of Golden Visa based on Occupation, Not Payout
Even with the recent introduction of the ₹23 lakh option, eligibility is still strictly in control. On the UAE government’s official website, each of the visa categories—Investor, Entrepreneur, Student, or Specialised Talent—possesses its approval criteria.
Here’s an overview of the most significant categories:
- Investors: Should invest AED 2 million (approx. ₹4.67 crore) in a UAE-accredited investment fund or property and demonstrate that ownership of capital is not on loan. They should also carry legitimate medical insurance and remit AED 250,000 yearly in UAE taxes to be eligible for a 10-year visa.
- Entrepreneurs: Must own a company worth more than AED 500,000 (around ₹1.17 crore) in the technology or innovation field. Approvals must come from licensed incubators, auditors, and local UAE authorities.
- Specialised Talents: Experts such as doctors, scientists, executives, artists, and sportsmen require endorsements from government-approved organizations. Executives must also submit a salary certificate of AED 50,000 (around ₹11.69 lakh) per month and a five-year experience letter.
- Students: High school students with 95% grades or university graduates with good GPAs from top institutions are eligible for 5–10 year visas.
Humanitarian Workers and Frontline Heroes: Should be able to demonstrate long-term service or significant contributions.
What’s Different About the ₹23 Lakh Option?
The Golden Visa, based on nominations, which is now accessible to Indians and Bangladeshis, bypasses the investment requirement in real estate or businesses. Instead, the applications can be submitted through the same nominated agencies like Rayad Group, VFS, and One Vasco.
Rayad Kamal Ayub, Rayad Group’s Managing Director, clarified, “This is a golden chance for Indians,” but made it clear that final approval is subject to various factors. “Applicants have to clear criminal background, anti-money laundering, and social media scans,” he further clarified.
Final choice and validation are in the hands of UAE authorities, depending on the profession of the applicant, contribution to society, and economic importance.
