Indians can now get UAE's Golden Visa without trade license, property purchase

The United Arab Emirates has introduced a new nomination-based Golden Visa programme, offering Indian citizens lifetime residency without the need for large property or business investments. This move marks a shift from the existing visa framework and is part of a pilot project that begins with India and Bangladesh, as per a PTI report.

Under the current rules, Indian citizens typically secure the UAE’s Golden Visa by investing a minimum of AED 2 million (around ₹4.66 crore) in property or making substantial business investments. The new nomination-based system, however, allows eligible applicants to obtain lifetime residency by paying a fee of AED 1,00,000 (approximately ₹23.3 lakh), subject to background checks and approval by UAE authorities.

Pilot begins with India and Bangladesh


Those involved in the rollout told PTI that over 5,000 Indians are expected to apply within the first three months of the launch. India and Bangladesh are the first countries selected for this programme, reflecting closer bilateral ties following the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), which came into effect in May 2022.

Rayad Group, a consultancy appointed to handle the nomination process, is leading the initial rollout in India. Rayad Kamal Ayub, Managing Director of Rayad Group told PTI that it is “a golden opportunity for Indians to get the UAE's Golden Visa.”

Background checks and UAE Golden Visa application process
Applicants will undergo strict background checks that include verification against anti-money laundering databases, criminal records, and review of social media activity. The assessment will also consider the applicant’s potential contribution to the UAE in sectors such as culture, science, finance, startups, trade, or professional services.

Once the checks are complete, Rayad Group will forward the application to UAE government authorities for a final decision. Approved applicants will receive the Golden Visa without needing to visit the UAE during the application phase.

Applications can be submitted through One Vasco centres in India and Bangladesh, registered offices, the Rayad Group’s online portal, or via a dedicated call centre.

USE Golden Visa for Indians: Key benefits and policy shift

The new visa provides lifetime residency and includes the right to sponsor family members, domestic workers, and drivers. “You can do any business or professional work here,” said Rayad Kamal. In contrast to the property-based visa, which becomes invalid if the property is sold or divided, the nomination-based Golden Visa remains permanent regardless of property ownership status.

The UAE government’s decision to partner with India in this initiative highlights growing cooperation between the two countries, especially in trade and mobility.

The nomination-based Golden Visa is part of a broader strategy to extend the programme to other CEPA partner countries, including China, in the near future. VFS and Rayad Group will continue to handle applicant vetting as the programme expands.

(With inputs from PTI)