UAE Opens the Golden Door: Lifetime Residency Now Available for ₹23 Lakh

The UAE has just made waves with its revamped Golden Visa program, allowing Indian and Bangladeshi citizens to secure lifetime residency through a nomination-based model — no property investment required. At a one-time fee of AED 1,00,000 (approx. ₹23.3 lakh), this marks a sharp pivot from earlier policies that mandated multi-crore investments in real estate or businesses.

What’s New in the Golden Visa Game

Previously, applicants had to invest AED 2 million (roughly ₹4.66 crore) to qualify. Now, selected professionals can apply directly through agencies like Rayad Group, VFS, and One Vasco. This new path requires no physical investment, but candidates must still meet key criteria around profession, economic contribution, and clean records.

The nomination route is currently exclusive to India and Bangladesh as part of a pilot rollout. According to Rayad Kamal Ayub, Managing Director of Rayad Group, the new format makes the UAE more accessible to mid-tier professionals and digital entrepreneurs who wouldn’t qualify under traditional models.

Who Qualifies – And Who Doesn’t

Before you rush to the bank, know this: ₹23 lakh isn’t a buy-in, it’s a door opener. Approval isn’t guaranteed just because you have the funds. You’ll still need to clear eligibility filters:

• Professionals: Executives, doctors, scientists, or artists must submit endorsements and proof of impact.
• Entrepreneurs: Must own a business valued at AED 500,000+ in innovation or tech.
• Students: Toppers with 95%+ in school or high GPA in top global universities may qualify for 5–10 year visas.
• Investors (under traditional model): Need AED 2 million in UAE-accredited funds or real estate, and must show tax contributions.

For the full list of requirements by category, check the official UAE visa portal or consult GDRFAD for Dubai-specific queries.

The Application Process

Whether you apply via the ICP app, One Touch service, or an approved agency, the process includes:

1. Selecting your category (talent, business, student, etc.)
2. Uploading documents (IDs, endorsements, financials)
3. Undergoing background, AML, and social media checks
4. Awaiting final approval from UAE authorities

Once granted, the Golden Visa offers full residency, the ability to sponsor family and domestic help, and conduct business within the Emirates — with no local sponsor required.