The UAE has unveiled a pilot nomination‑based Golden Visa program specifically for India and Bangladesh, moving away from its traditional multi‑crore investment route. Under this new system, eligible Indians can obtain a lifetime Golden Visa by paying a one‑time fee of AED 100,000 (approximately ₹23.3 lakh), without needing to invest in property or business holdings.
Who It’s For:
The visa targets individuals with specialized skills, talent, or contributions, such as:
- Senior-level professionals: educators, healthcare experts, corporate executives
- Creators: YouTubers, filmmakers, authors, podcasters
- Digital experts: coders, e-sports professionals
- Maritime industry specialists
- Scientists, doctors, PhD holders
- Humanitarian or frontline workers.
Eligibility Criteria:
Payment alone does not guarantee approval. Applicants must:
- Be nominated by an approved UAE agency (currently Rayad Group, VFS Global, One Vasco).
- Possess a strong professional profile and a record of achievement in the targeted fields.
- Pass rigorous background checks: AML, criminal record, social media vetting.
- Provide required documentation: passport, photos, category-based credentials (e.g., qualification certificates, letters of recommendation), police clearance, health insurance, etc.
Core Benefits:
- Lifetime residency in the UAE, without sponsor dependency.
- Ability to sponsor spouse, children (including adult children), parents, and domestic staff.
- Freedom to work, study, start business, or hold any job.
- No requirement to keep assets in the UAE – visa remains regardless of property sale.
- Right to stay outside UAE for periods longer than 6 months, a privilege not available under standard residency visas.
Application Process: Step by Step
- Nomination: Contact an approved agency (Rayad Group, VFS Global, One Vasco) to assess your eligibility.
- Documentation: Submit required documents per your category.
- Payment: Pay the AED 100,000 fee and agency fees.
- Background Vetting: Undergo AML checks, criminal and social media screening.
- Submission & Approval: Agency forwards your application to UAE authorities.
- Residence Issued: Pre-approval issued from India; no need to visit UAE before residency is granted.
Points to Consider
- This is a pilot scheme limited to – 5,000 applicants in the first 90 days.
- Approval remains entirely at UAE government discretion – even post nomination fee.
- Cost of living in UAE is notably high; plan accordingly .
Why Indians Stand to Gain
- Significantly lower financial barrier compared to the ₹4.66 crores investment previously required.
- Aligns with UAE‑India CEPA goals, fostering talent exchange and strengthening economic ties.
- Simplifies long-term relocation – no need to relocate immediately, and families are covered too.
- Enhances career flexibility: easier entry into new roles, business ownership, or academic pursuits.
- Offers stability & prestige with extended, secure residency and full sponsorship privileges.
Final Take
The UAE’s new nomination-based Golden Visa is a game-changing opportunity for eligible Indians – dramatically reducing costs while unlocking lifetime residency, mobility, and sponsorship benefits. But it’s still merit-based, requiring strong credentials and background clearance. For professionals, creators, or experts poised for global impact, this could be your golden gateway to the Emirates.