What is the UAE golden visa?
The UAE Golden Visa is a residential program that allows foreign nationals, including Indians, to live, work, and study in the UAE without requiring a local sponsor. It offers 5- or 10-year eligibility options aimed at investors, professionals, entrepreneurs, students, and more. The Golden visa was launched in 2019, and in 2022, the investment limit to enroll in this program was reduced by 20 lakh dirham and amounted to 2 million.
But in July 2025, the UAE launched a new golden visa offering a nomination-based residency pilot program for Indians and Bangladeshis. Unlike the old program, the new UAE golden visa program doesn’t require any property investment, business ownership, or high salaries. This new system offers lifetime UAE residency for a one-time fee, without needing to invest in real estate or open a company.
What Makes This New Scheme Different?
| Traditional Golden Visa | New Nomination-Based Golden Visa (July 2025) |
|---|---|
| Requires AED 2 million property/business investment | ❌ No investment needed |
| Only for high-income professionals or investors | ✅ Available to skilled professionals across sectors |
| Applied through the GDRFA or ICP portal | ✅ Apply via authorised partners like One Vasco, Rayad Group |
| 5 or 10 years validity | ✅ Lifetime validity (under current scheme) |
| Available globally | 🔓 Currently available only to Indian & Bangladeshi nationals (pilot phase) |
UAE golden visa requirements
This is a nomination-based program, which implies that the applicant will be selected based on professional background, achievements, or sectoral contributions.
-
Nationality (Pilot Phase)
- Indians
- Bangladeshis
-
Sectors and Professions
- Scientists, researchers, and educators
- University or school teachers with 15+ years of experience
- Nurses with 15+ years of service
- Startup founders
- Business professionals
- Digital Creators, YouTubers, Influencers
- Technology Professionals (IT engineers, AI specialists, blockchain experts)
- Esports & Gaming Professionals (age 25+)
- Yacht Crew, Maritime Professionals
- Artists, Writers, Designers, Cultural Contributors
- Senior Executives, Business Leaders, Startup Founders
- Humanitarian Workers and Volunteers
REMEMBER: Your income level or investment capacity will not get you selected; your skills, experience, and social credibility will.
How to apply for the Golden Visa UAE?
To apply for the Golden Visa UAE, follow these steps:
- As of now, you cannot apply through the standard GDRFA or ICP portals for this scheme. You need to contact one of the approved agencies:
- Rayad Group
- One Vasco UAE
- VFS Global (expected rollout)
- Submit professional documents and a personal statement.
- UAE authorities will conduct a background check, including:
- Criminal record check
- Financial background screening
- Social media audit for reputation
- The Ministry of Interior and other bodies evaluate your eligibility
- Upon approval, you’ll receive an entry permit.
- Complete biometrics, medical test, and Emirates ID upon arrival.
- Get Your Golden Visa for life under the current pilot terms
REMEMBER: UAE golden visa can be renewed or updated based on the new legislation.
Required Documents (Common for All Routes)
- Passport (valid 6+ months)
- Passport-size photos
- Emirates ID (if applicable)
- Medical fitness test result
- Proof of residence (UAE tenancy or address)
- Category-specific documents (degree, license, proof of investment, etc.)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
| Mistake | How to Avoid |
|---|---|
| Incomplete professional documentation | Provide experience letters, portfolios, social media links |
| Criminal/legal history not disclosed | Be fully transparent – UAE does detailed background checks |
| Unverified third-party consultants | Use only approved visa facilitators |
| Assuming it’s available globally | This scheme is currently India- and Bangladesh-specific |
UAE golden visa cost breakdown
| Item | Amount (AED) | Approx. in INR |
|---|---|---|
| One-Time Golden Visa Fee | 100,000 AED | ~₹23–24 lakh |
| Medical Test, Emirates ID | Included in the application | – |
| No investment/property required | ✅ | ✅ |
Final thoughts
Exciting news! Starting July 2025, the UAE will launch its Golden Visa nomination scheme, shifting from “money talks” to “merit matters.” This inclusive program empowers skilled professionals to secure long-term residency in one of the world’s most attractive destinations. It also strengthens the UAE’s ties with India and Bangladesh, celebrating talent and opportunity in the UAE!
Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)
1. Is it truly a “lifetime visa”?
Yes, this visa is described as a lifetime visa, but it is likely for renewal after 10-year periods, like the previous visa, but no renewal cost has been mentioned.
2. Is the AED 100,000 refundable?
No, the amount paid as a fee for issuing a visa is not refundable.
3. Can I bring my family on this visa?
Yes, Spouse, children, and even support staff (like house help) can be sponsored in this visa.
4. How long will it take to get my visa approval?
It can take anywhere from 6 to 12 weeks to get UAE golden visa approval.