The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has taken a historic decision and introduced a new and very attractive opportunity for Indian citizens. While earlier one had to invest in property worth crores to get permanent residence in the UAE, now by paying a one-time fee of just ₹23 lakh (AED 100,000), one will get the facility to stay in the UAE for life—and that too without any investment obligation. Under this new nomination-based Golden Visa scheme, priority will be given to Indian professionals, scientists, artists, businessmen and social workers who can contribute to the development of the UAE. This is not just a visa but a new window of global opportunities, which is very important, especially for a talent-rich country like India.
What is a Golden Visa and how did it work earlier?
The Golden Visa was introduced in the UAE a few years ago, but at that time it was open only to high investors. Any Indian citizen who invested in property worth at least AED 2 million (approximately ₹4.66 crores) in the UAE could get a long-term residence visa. This rule was almost impossible for ordinary middle-class Indians. Now under this new scheme, it is possible to get a visa without buying a property, only on the basis of professional qualification and social influence. This initiative is not only economically viable, but it is also a symbol of the strengthening relations between India and the UAE.
Nomination-based process: Eligibility is necessary before application.
The most important condition for getting this visa is nomination. This means that not everyone can apply for this visa directly. For this, the candidate must be nominated by a UAE-recognized institution or consultancy company. This process is being conducted by Rayad Group in India and Bangladesh, working in collaboration with VFS and One Vasco Center. More than 5,000 Indians are expected to apply in the first three months. If a candidate’s educational background, professional experience, or social contribution is useful for the UAE, he or she may be eligible for this visa.
What will you get with this visa? Facilities that can change lives
The biggest feature of this visa is that it is permanent—that is, it gives you lifelong security. With this, the applicant will get the right not only to live in the UAE but also to work there, start a business, buy property, and bring family along. This is especially useful for those who want to educate their children in the UAE or want to set foot in international business. Also, it allows the visa holder to hire domestic staff, making living there more convenient.
Application process: Easy, but with full scrutiny
The application process for this visa has been made extremely smooth and digital-friendly. Candidates can fill out the online form by visiting the official website of Rayad Group or apply offline by visiting VFS Global and Vasco centers in India. But note—this is not just a form-filling process. It includes stringent criteria such as anti-money laundering checks, criminal background verification, and social media profile scanning. The final decision on nomination and approval will rest with the UAE government, which maintains both its credibility and transparency.
New chapter in India-UAE relations
It would not be appropriate to consider this scheme as just an immigration option. It is actually an important link in the development of India-UAE strategic relations. Under the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) signed in the year 2022, unprecedented cooperation has been seen between the two countries in areas such as trade, investment, culture and education. The UAE currently wants to make global talent a part of its economy, and India is playing a leading role in this. For this reason, India and Bangladesh have been selected as pilot projects. Going forward, this scheme can be expanded to other partner countries like China.
Is this visa for you? Make a wise decision.
If you are a professional, researcher, artist, startup founder, or freelancer and have done something remarkable in your field, this visa can open a new door for you. Getting permanent residency in a modern, safe and globally connected country like the UAE for a one-time fee of ₹23 lakh is a huge opportunity in itself. Also, the absence of a property requirement makes this scheme more practical and inclusive. For those who want to see their children grow up in an international environment, this scheme is an ideal option.
Conclusion: This visa is a door—to a global lifestyle and opportunities.
This new Golden Visa of the UAE is not just a government scheme but a new idea—an idea that recognizes talent, honors it and provides opportunities on a global platform. For citizens of a country like India, where there is no dearth of talent, this is a golden opportunity. It is not only a gateway to a better lifestyle but also the foundation of a future in which boundaries are only on paper.
If you are a talented, motivated and globally minded individual, this is probably the opportunity that is waiting for you.
FAQs
Q. What is the new UAE nomination-based Golden Visa?
A. It’s a lifetime residency visa offered to eligible individuals based on their professional background, for a one-time fee of AED 100,000—no investment required.
Q. Who can apply for this Golden Visa?
A. Professionals, entrepreneurs, artists, and individuals contributing to sectors like culture, science, trade, or startups may be nominated for the visa.
Q. Do I need to invest in property to qualify?
A. No, property or business investment is not required under this new nomination-based Golden Visa.
Q. Can I bring my family with this visa?
A. Yes, approved visa holders can sponsor their family, employ staff, and engage in business or professional activities in the UAE.
Q. How can I apply for the Golden Visa from India?
A. You can apply through Rayad Group, VFS, or One Vasco centres in India, or use their official online portal.