NEW DELHI: In a major shift from its traditional investment-based residency model, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has introduced a revamped Golden Visa programme that significantly broadens access to long-term residency to Indians. The Middle East country is now offering eligible Indians lifetime residency by paying a one-time fee of AED 1,00,000 (approximately Rs 23.3 lakh), without the need to invest in property or business.
The nomination-based Golden Visa is now open to a wide range of professionals, beyond just investors and entrepreneurs.
Under this new system, applicants can be nominated and approved based on their professional background, societal contributions, or potential benefits to UAE’s sectors such as culture, trade, science, startups, or finance. Eligible applicants include: healthcare workers (e.g., nurses), educators, digital content creators, scientists and researchers, corporate executives, maritime and logistics professionals.
Applicants must pass strict background checks, including anti-money laundering (AML) and criminal record screenings.
In India, the application and verification process is handled by Rayad Group in collaboration with VFS Global and One Vasco. Applications can be submitted via physical centers, online platforms, or dedicated call centres. Importantly, candidates can receive pre-approval without needing to travel to the UAE.
The new programme offers several advantages over the previous Golden Visa model, which required a minimum real estate investment of AED 2 million (approx. Rs 4.66 crore): lifetime residency regardless of property ownership; freedom to work, reside, or invest in any professional or business sector; sponsorship of family members and domestic staff; no requirement to maintain a minimum asset threshold; tax advantages, including zero personal income tax, capital gains tax, and inheritance tax.
This initiative reflects growing India-UAE ties, building on the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) signed in 2022. Over 5,000 Indian nationals are expected to apply in the first three months alone.
While the new nomination-based UAE Golden Visa model for Indians has drawn widespread attention for offering lifetime residency, the process isn’t as simple as just paying the fee.
As per the official UAE government website, not everyone with money qualifies automatically for residency. The investors from India must either place AED 2 million in a UAE-accredited fund or own qualifying real estate of similar value.
Also, they must submit proof of medical insurance and verify that the capital is not loaned. Despite the introduction of a nomination-based model that appears to reduce the investment barrier, eligibility remains strictly controlled and approval is not guaranteed merely by the fee. Each category from student to investor has specific documentation and approval requirements.