In a landmark shift, the United Arab Emirates has launched a nomination-based Golden Visa scheme for Indian citizens, eliminating the need for property investment or a trade license. This new pathway, currently in pilot phase, allows eligible Indians to secure lifetime residency in the UAE by paying a one-time fee of AED 1,00,000 (about ₹23.3 lakh). The initiative is expected to attract thousands of skilled professionals and deepen the UAE-India relationship.
Old vs. New UAE Golden Visa Requirements for Indians
| Criteria | Old Golden Visa (Property/Business) | New Nomination-Based Golden Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum Investment | AED 2 million in property (~₹4.7 crore) | None |
| Trade License Required | Yes (for business route) | No |
| Residency Duration | 5 or 10 years (renewable) | Lifetime |
| One-Time Fee | Application fees + property/business costs | AED 1,00,000 (~₹23.3 lakh) |
| Eligibility | Investors, business owners | Nominated professionals, creators, etc. |
| Family Sponsorship | Yes | Yes |
| Visa Validity on Asset Sale | Revoked if property sold | Remains valid regardless of assets |
| Background Checks | Standard | Enhanced (criminal, financial, social) |
Previously, Indian applicants had to invest at least AED 2 million in real estate or hold a valid UAE trade license with substantial business investment. The new scheme removes these financial barriers, making the visa accessible to a much broader pool of talented individuals.
How Does the New Nomination-Based UAE Golden Visa Work?
- Nomination Required: Applicants must be nominated by an approved UAE partner organization or agency, such as Rayad Group or through official visa concierge services like OneVASCO.
- Professional Merit: The process is designed for those with skills, experience, or achievements in sectors the UAE wants to attract – such as education, healthcare, digital media, science, maritime, and more.
- Background Checks: Every applicant undergoes thorough screening, including criminal, financial, anti-money laundering, and social media checks. The UAE government makes the final decision on all nominations.
- No Need to Visit Dubai for Pre-Approval: Applications and initial approvals can be managed from India via authorized centers, online portals, or call centers.
Who Is Eligible?
The new Golden Visa is not open to all Indians solely on payment of the fee. Eligibility is based on:
- Professional standing (e.g., senior educators, healthcare professionals, corporate leaders)
- Creators (YouTubers, podcasters, authors, filmmakers)
- Digital professionals (e-sports players, coders)
- Maritime industry workers (yacht owners, executives)
- Experienced nurses, university lecturers, teachers
- Start-up founders and innovators
- Other individuals who can demonstrate potential economic, cultural, or scientific value to the UAE.
Applicants must demonstrate how they will benefit the UAE’s market, culture, or professional landscape. Final approval is at the discretion of UAE authorities.
Key Benefits of the New Golden Visa
- Lifetime Residency: Unlike the previous 5- or 10-year visas, the new scheme offers permanent residency, not tied to property or business ownership.
- Family Sponsorship: Visa holders can sponsor their spouse, children, and even domestic workers.
- Freedom to Work and Invest: Holders can work, start businesses, or invest in the UAE without restrictions.
- No Sponsor Needed: No need for a local sponsor or employer.
- Unrestricted Travel: Multiple entry/exit allowed; extended stays outside UAE do not affect visa status.
- No Asset Maintenance: The visa remains valid even if the applicant sells property or changes jobs.
Application Process: Step-by-Step
- Nomination Submission: Apply through an approved agency (such as Rayad Group visa online apply or OneVASCO centers) or via the official online portal.
- Background Check: Undergo comprehensive checks for criminal, financial, and social media history.
- Evaluation: The agency forwards eligible applications to UAE authorities for final decision.
- Fee Payment: Pay the one-time AED 1,00,000 fee (approx. ₹23.3 lakh).
- Approval & Issuance: Upon approval, receive lifetime residency and the right to sponsor family and staff.
Why Is India in Focus?
India and Bangladesh are the first countries selected for this pilot, reflecting the UAE’s strategic emphasis on deepening bilateral ties after the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) signed in 2022. The Indian diaspora is the largest expat group in the UAE, and over 5,000 applications from India are expected in the first 90 days of rollout.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is paying AED 1,00,000 enough to guarantee the Golden Visa?
No. Payment alone does not guarantee approval. Applicants must clear background and professional merit checks, and be successfully nominated by an authorized agency.
Can I apply without visiting the UAE?
Yes. Pre-approval and application can be managed from India through authorized centers or online portals.
What happens if I sell my assets or change jobs?
The new Golden Visa remains valid regardless of property ownership or employment status.
Can I bring my family?
Yes. The visa allows family sponsorship and even permits employing domestic staff.
The Big Picture: What This Means for Indian Professionals
This nomination-based Golden Visa is a game-changer for Indian professionals, creators, and entrepreneurs who previously could not meet the high investment thresholds. It aligns with the UAE’s vision to attract global talent and deepen economic and cultural ties with India.
While the process is more accessible, it still demands professional merit, clean records, and a successful nomination – ensuring that only those who can contribute meaningfully to the UAE’s development are granted this privilege.
The UAE’s new Golden Visa for Indians is not just a residency permit—it’s a long-term bridge for talent, innovation, and partnership between two dynamic nations.