UAE Introduces Nomination-Based Golden Visa for Indians, Lifetime Residency Without Property Investment
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In a major policy shift, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has launched a new nomination-based Golden Visa scheme, offering lifetime residency to eligible Indian nationals without requiring property or business investment.
The one-time application fee for the visa is AED 100,000 (approximately ₹23.3 lakh).
Until now, Indian citizens could only access the UAE’s prestigious Golden Visa through significant financial commitments, such as purchasing property worth at least AED 2 million (₹4.66 crore). The new model, however, allows applicants to be nominated based on professional achievements, societal contributions, or impact in sectors such as trade, science, finance, startups, and the arts.
The pilot phase is currently open exclusively to citizens of India and Bangladesh, with over 5,000 Indian applications anticipated in the first three months. In India, the scheme is being led by Rayad Group, the designated consultancy in collaboration with VFS and One Vasco centres. Applications can be submitted at physical centres or through Rayad Group’s online portal and call centre.
“This is a golden opportunity for Indians,” said Rayad Kamal Ayub, Managing Director of Rayad Group. He added that a thorough vetting process will include anti-money laundering checks, criminal background verification, and social media screening. Final approval will rest with UAE authorities.
Approved Golden Visa holders will receive lifetime residency and be entitled to bring family members, employ staff, and engage in business or professional activities. Unlike previous property-linked visas that expired upon the sale of the asset, this visa will remain valid permanently.
This initiative comes against the backdrop of strengthening UAE–India relations, particularly following the signing of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) in 2022. The UAE government plans to expand the nomination-based visa model to other CEPA partner countries, including China in subsequent phases.
The move reflects the UAE’s broader strategy to attract global talent and long-term residents based on merit and strategic value, rather than financial wealth alone.
Source: TIMES OF INDIA
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