In a major shift from investment-based residency, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has launched a new nomination-based Golden Visa scheme exclusively for India and Bangladesh as part of a pilot programme. This visa offers lifetime residency to approved applicants for a one-time fee of AED 1,00,000 (around ₹23.30 lakh).
From Investment to Nomination
Previously, obtaining a UAE Golden Visa required significant investments, such as purchasing property worth AED 2 million (₹4.66 crore) or injecting capital into local businesses. The new policy, however, introduces a more inclusive and accessible route, focused on merit, reputation, and contribution potential.
What Makes You Eligible?
Applicants need to pass several background checks, including:
- Criminal record screening
- Anti-money laundering compliance
- Social media footprint analysis
- Potential value to UAE sectors like culture, trade, science, startups, and finance
Once the applicant clears these criteria, Rayad Group, the appointed consultancy, will forward the case to the UAE government for final approval.
No Need to Visit Dubai for Application
The application process has been simplified. Indians can apply through:
- One VASCO centres in India and Bangladesh
- Online portals
- Registered offices
- Dedicated call centres
This means pre-approval can be obtained without visiting Dubai physically.
What Does the Visa Offer?
The nomination-based Golden Visa comes with lifelong residency and several perks:
- Bring family members
- Employ domestic staff
- Freedom to start or join businesses
- No cancellation even if property is sold, unlike traditional property-based visas
India-UAE Relations: A Key Factor
India’s inclusion in this pilot reflects its strong geopolitical and economic relationship with the UAE, especially after the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) signed in May 2022. The UAE plans to expand this initiative to other CEPA nations, including China.
A New Pathway to Global Mobility
The new nomination route to the UAE’s Golden Visa is a game-changer for Indians seeking permanent global residency and business freedom, without the burden of hefty property investments.
