UAE’s golden visa at Rs 23 lakh is not for all Indians. What are the conditions?

The UAE's new nomination-based Golden Visa scheme for Indians promises lifetime residency, but one-time cost of AED 1,00,000 (approx. Rs 23.3 lakh) alone isn’t enough to qualify.

The UAE has introduced a nomination-based Golden Visa route that allows Indian and Bangladeshi citizens to apply for lifetime residency at a one-time cost of AED 1,00,000. While this offer has attracted strong interest among Indian professionals, the process is not as simple as paying the fee. According to the UAE government, eligibility is not automatic and depends on professional merit, clean records, and a successful nomination.

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Eligibility based on individual’s qualification and profile

The UAE’s Golden Visa is a long-term residence permit that grants holders the right to live, work, or study in the country. It includes multiple-entry options, no sponsor requirement, and the ability to sponsor family and domestic workers. However, even under the new ₹23 lakh route, applicants must undergo screening based on their profession, societal contributions, and perceived economic value to the UAE.

Rayad Kamal Ayub, Managing Director of Rayad Group, one of the agencies facilitating the nomination process, said, “This is a golden opportunity for Indians,” but made it clear that “final approval lies solely with the UAE authorities.”

This nomination-based model is being offered through authorised agencies such as Rayad Group, VFS Global, and One Vasco. It waives the need for a business or property investment, but approval depends on the applicant’s background. The route is designed for mid-career professionals, entrepreneurs, creators, and individuals with proven contributions in sectors such as healthcare, media, innovation, or humanitarian work.

Candidates are vetted through a series of checks. These include anti-money laundering clearances, criminal background verification, and even social media audits. Applicants who pass these checks and receive a successful nomination may be granted a 10-year visa, renewable thereafter.

The application process

• Applicants must first determine the category they fall under,such as talent, entrepreneur, or humanitarian contributor.
• Based on this, they must gather documents and apply either through the official ICP portal or via an authorised nomination agency.
• An optional “One Touch” Golden Visa service offered by UAE authorities enables candidates to manage all processes, from paperwork to visa issuance, in one place.
• Regardless of the method, final approval is at the discretion of UAE immigration authorities.

Documents required for Indians

Applicants should prepare the following documents for submission:

• Clear copy of passport (all pages, including stamps and visas)
• Copies of any previous UAE visas (if applicable)
• Recent passport-sized colour photographs (white background)
• Proof of eligibility based on the chosen category
• Bank or financial statements to demonstrate financial stability
• Valid health insurance
• Proof of current Dubai residence (if already residing in UAE)
• Police clearance certificate from India or other countries of residence
• Additional documents may be requested depending on category (e.g., salary certificate, academic transcripts, endorsement letters)

Where to seek information from

For eligibility queries or clarifications, applicants may contact the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP). For Dubai-specific concerns, the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai (GDRFAD) is the key authority.

Even as the UAE’s ₹23 lakh Golden Visa offer appears to simplify access, the program remains selective and merit-based. Whether through investment, achievement, or nomination, entry depends not just on wealth but on a clean track record and recognised value to the country. As the UAE authorities continue to evaluate applications carefully, applicants must meet more than just financial expectations.