UAE Golden Visa: New Nomination Route Sparks Hope and Confusion for Indians
The UAE’s Golden Visa program has recently seen significant changes, particularly with the introduction of a nomination-based route. This new pathway, reportedly starting at around ₹23 lakh, aims to make long-term residency more accessible to skilled professionals and talented individuals from countries like India and Bangladesh, moving beyond the traditional property investment requirements. However, the lack of official government statements has led to widespread confusion and concerns about potential scams.
Key Takeaways
- A new nomination-based Golden Visa route is reportedly being piloted for Indians and Bangladeshis, offering long-term residency for a significantly lower cost than property-based visas.
- This new route focuses on attracting skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, and individuals with specialized talents, rather than requiring substantial financial investments.
- Despite reports from some consultancies, the UAE government has not officially announced this new pilot project, leading to warnings about fraudulent offers.
- The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) has debunked claims of a ₹23 lakh offer for lifetime residency and citizenship, emphasizing that all official applications are managed through government channels.
The New Nomination-Based Golden Visa
Traditionally, the UAE Golden Visa required substantial investments, such as AED 2 million (approximately ₹4.66 crore) in property or significant business stakes. The new nomination-based route, as reported by some sources, aims to provide a more affordable entry point for eligible individuals, with costs starting around ₹23 lakh (AED 100,000).
Key features of this reported new route include:
- Eligibility: Open to skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, scientists, creatives, and individuals recognized for their accomplishments.
- Cost: Significantly lower than traditional investment-based visas.
- Family Sponsorship: Golden Visa holders can sponsor their family members, including spouses, children, and even household staff.
- No Property/Business Investment: Unlike previous routes, this pathway does not require real estate or business investments.
Confusion and Scam Warnings
The reported launch of this nomination-based visa has been met with mixed reactions. While it offers a promising opportunity for many, the absence of official confirmation from the UAE government has fueled skepticism and concerns about scams.
- Lack of Official Announcement: As of early July 2025, the UAE government has not issued any official statement regarding a new pilot project for a ₹23 lakh Golden Visa.
- Scam Alerts: The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) has explicitly warned against false and misleading claims, stating that all Golden Visa applications are managed exclusively through official government channels.
- Misleading Information: Consultancy firms have reportedly circulated press releases claiming a new nomination-based route, which the ICP has dismissed as an attempt to exploit individuals.
How to Apply (Official Channels)
To avoid falling victim to scams, individuals interested in the UAE Golden Visa should always refer to official government sources. The ICP website and smart application are the only authorized platforms for information and application. The ICP has urged the public not to respond to
Sources
- Is UAE offering Indians Golden Visa for Rs 23 lakh?, India Today.
- UAE’s nomination-based Golden Visa vs real estate-linked residency: Know the key differences, Moneycontrol.
- UAE Golden Visa scam: ₹23 lakh offer for Indians is fake, warns govt | Immigration News, Business Standard.
- Rs 23 lakh UAE Golden Visa a marketing gimmick? It’s a ‘rebranding’ of the existing practices, says
immigration consultant – Investing Abroad News, Financial Express. - UAE’s Golden Visa: Cost, application process, documentation, India Today.
