UAE clarifies Golden Visa rules, denies ‘Lifetime Visa’ claims for Indian applicants

After introducing the new nomination-based Golden Visa, UAE authorities have issued a clarification amid rising misinformation online.

The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) has denied claims that certain nationalities, including Indians, are eligible for a lifetime Golden Visa. Officials clarified that such terms are misleading and have no legal basis.

A Dubai-based visa advisory service company, Rayad Group, on Wednesday issued an apology and accepted “full responsibility” for spreading “incorrect” information about the UAE Golden Visa. It seems that the ₹23.30 lakh mentioned by Rayad Group was the fee it would charge for facilitating the Golden Visa.

ICP also warned against fake claims made by consultancies based abroad, some of which suggest simplified application routes. These claims have no legal basis, and legal action will be taken against any entity attempting to exploit applicants.

No consultancy or influencer outside the UAE is authorised to process Golden Visa applications. Interested individuals are advised to rely solely on official platforms such as the ICP website or app.

Authorised centres in Dubai such as Amer, Tasheel and Tawjeeh have reported a rise in scams. Some overseas agents are charging up to AED 40,000 (₹9 lakh) for visa processing, while the actual cost is closer to AED 3,000 (₹67,000), excluding medical and Emirates ID expenses.

Eligibility is clearly defined and includes the following categories:

• Skilled professionals earning AED 30,000/month (₹6.7 lakh)

• Investors with AED 2 million (₹4.5 crore) in fixed deposits

• Real estate owners with property worth AED 2 million

• Scientists, IT experts and highly skilled individuals

• Outstanding students and humanitarian workers

In Dubai, applicants can be outside UAE during the nomination stage but must enter the country within three days of approval to complete the process. In other Emirates, applicants must already be present throughout the application.

While UAE’s updated Golden Visa route offers a simpler, non-investment-based path for Indian citizens, it’s crucial to avoid misinformation and stick strictly to official processes.