UAE Golden Visa: A Lifetime Opportunity with New Nomination-Based Policy

The UAE’s Golden Visa offers Indians lifetime residency for AED 1,00,000 (INR 23.3 lakh) under a new nomination-based system. The process includes strict background checks, such as anti-money laundering, criminal records, and social media activity, to ensure alignment with UAE values. Applicants must demonstrate contributions to sectors like culture, science, or business. Benefits include no need for local sponsors, full family sponsorship, and business opportunities. This initiative highlights the UAE's focus on attracting talent and fostering economic growth.

The UAE’s Golden Visa, a highly sought-after long-term residency permit, has captured the attention of Indians, offering them a chance to live, work, and thrive in the Emirates. However, under a recently introduced nomination-based scheme, the application process has become more stringent, requiring not just a hefty fee but also extensive background scrutiny, including an evaluation of applicants' social media activity.

The New Nomination-Based System

For a fee of AED 1,00,000 (approximately INR 23.3 lakh), Indian applicants can now apply for a lifetime UAE Golden Visa. This marks a shift from the earlier requirement of investing at least AED 2 million (around INR 4.66 crore) in property or making significant business investments in the UAE.

While the fee makes the visa more accessible, the new process includes rigorous background checks. Rayad Kamal Ayub, Managing Director of Rayad Group, explained the steps involved: “Applicants undergo strict scrutiny to ensure compliance with anti-money laundering regulations, a clean criminal record, and even a review of their social media activity. These checks also assess how the applicant can contribute to the UAE’s economy, culture, or other key sectors such as science, finance, and professional services.”

Once the checks are complete, agencies like Rayad Group forward the applications to UAE authorities, who make the final decision on granting the visa.

The Role of Social Media in Visa Approval

Interestingly, social media activity has become a critical aspect of background checks, echoing practices seen in U.S. visa applications. Although specific guidelines for these checks have not been disclosed, they are expected to focus on ensuring that applicants align with the UAE's values and pose no reputational or security risks.

What is the UAE Golden Visa?

The UAE Golden Visa is a coveted long-term residency permit that allows foreign nationals to live, work, and study in the Emirates. Traditionally offered for 5 or 10 years with automatic renewal, the visa delivers a range of benefits:

• No need for a local sponsor.

• Multiple entry privileges.

• Unrestricted travel outside the UAE for extended periods without forfeiting residency.

• Full family sponsorship, covering spouses, children, and even parents.

• The ability to sponsor domestic staff.

• Eligibility to apply for an Emirates ID and start a business in the UAE.

Why the UAE Golden Visa Stands Out

The UAE Golden Visa is more than just a residency permit—it’s an opportunity to become an integral part of a thriving global hub. With the introduction of the nomination-based scheme, the UAE ensures that its residents not only meet high ethical standards but also contribute meaningfully to the nation’s economic and cultural landscape.

This progressive approach to immigration reflects the UAE’s vision of attracting top talent and fostering innovation while maintaining security and integrity. For those willing to meet the criteria, the Golden Visa is a gateway to unparalleled opportunities in one of the world's most dynamic regions.