The new nomination-based system of UAE Golden Visa for Indians has made a buzz, particularly its promise of permanent residence backed by one-time payment of AED 1,00,000. Nevertheless, the so-called excitement is not a plain purchase and stay offer. At least two official documents by the UAE Government portals, the only acceptable requirement is to have the money.
Golden Visa is a special long-term residence permit, which provides a foreign national with an opportunity to live, work, or study in the Emirates and does not require a sponsor. Benefits are that they are renewable after about 5 or tried years, multiple entries, family sponsorships are long-term, and extended absences outside the UAE without annulment of the visa.
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What Is the UAE Golden Visa?
The UAE Golden Visa is a permanent residence document that will enable foreigners, who are not citizens of the UAE, to work, study, or reside within the country without requiring a sponsor who is a local resident. It is renewable and issued up to 5 or up to 10 years and gives multiple-entry permits, right of extended stay abroad and allows the sponsorship of all family members and domestic help completely.
However in the past, one had to be either eligible through serious investment, academic brilliance or talent identification. Today, after launching a nomination-based system membership-first made available to Indians and Bangladesh, Dubai has ensured that citizens can now make applications without going through the norm until then-investing in property or a business enterprise.
What Is the New Nomination-Based Golden Visa?
The nomination-based visa is another route that gives an option to the traditional investment-oriented route. Historically, candidates had to invest AED 2 million in real estate or accredited in the UAE fund, which the nomination model avoids.
The Indians can now get a lifetime Golden Visa (AED 1,00,000) if they are successful in an examination conducted by authorised organisations such as Rayad Group, VFS, and One Vasco.
Rayad Kamal Ayub, the Managing Director of Rayad Group termed this as a golden opportunity to the Indians. But he has also made it clear that applicants have to pass:
- Anti-money laundering checks
- Criminal background checks
- Social media screening
- Professional or societal value vetting
UAE authorities still have the power to give final approval.
Why Can’t Everyone Just Buy It?
Since eligibility is not entirely money-based but continues to be merit-based too. The applicants must demonstrate that they will contribute to the economy, the culture, or the society of UAE. The single-time fee of AED 1,00,000 is only applicable once accepted, and you will not be able to get back your money in the case of rejection. Individual applicants are ranked according to their professional experience, potential contribution and category.
Traditional UAE Golden Visa Categories and Their Requirements
No matter which route you go; the traditional model or the nomination-based one, your profile needs to be up to certain standards. This is how they break it up:
1. Investors
- Have to invest AED 2 million in:
- An investment fund that is accredited by the UAE, or
- Real estate
- The capital has to be owned, not loaned
- Will be required to show medical insurance
- Is obligated to pay 250,000 UAE taxes per year
- Eligible for a visa with a duration of 10 years
2. Entrepreneurs
- Business value should amount to AED 500,000
- Needs to be in a technology or innovation based business
- Needs authorization of auditors, incubators, and local administrations
3. Specialised Talents
- Doctors, scientists, artists, executives, athletes are all open
- Needs to be approved by the UAE ministries
- The executives will have to submit:
- AED 50,000+ salary certificate
- 5 years of experience letter
4. Students
- High school students who have 95%+ marks
- College students in the top tier schools studied throughout the world
- Countries eligible to 5-10 year visas
5. Humanitarian Workers & Frontline Heroes
- Must show long tracking service
- Must have had a recognised role in crisis or welfare
Also Read: Dubai to Begin Autonomous Vehicle Trials in 2025: Full Self-Driving Rollout Set for 2026
Step-by-Step Application Process
Either the conventional or nomination-based path, here is the rough guide:
Step 1: Selection of the Right Category
Know whether you fit in as an investor, entrepreneur, student, talent or a humanitarian.
Step 2: Get Mandatory Documents
Prepare your:
- Financial statements
- Educational transcripts
- Recommendation letters
- Professional certifications
- Passport and photographs
Step 3: Submit Your Application
- For traditional visas: Use the ICP website or application
- For nomination-based visas: Get in touch with Rayad, VFS, or One Vasco
- One Touch Golden Visa service to include the entire application exercise
Step 4: Background Screening
The authorities will perform:
- Criminal record checks
- Financial background checks
- Social media activities analysis
Step 5: Get Your Golden Visa
If approved:
- You will be granted a residence permit entitling you to a 5 or 10 year renewable residence permit
- You will be able to sponsor your family and employ employees and do businesses or work in the UAE
Final Thoughts: It’s Not Just About the Money
Although the potential of the UAE Golden Visa is of utmost importance, due to the perhaps reduced entry threshold with the AED 1,00,000 nomination-based Golden Visa to Indians, we should realize the following: UAE Golden Visa is not everybody s cup of tea.
It is intended so as to bring quality individuals with high-potential so that they may contribute economically, culturally, or in another professional manner to the country.
You are a top academic, a business innovator, a proven talent in your arena, UAE would also like to make it home to you, but only when you pass their tests. Now before you pull out your cheque book, find that you have the qualifications as well as the money.