UAE’s New Golden Visa for Indians
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has made it easier for professionals in different fields to apply for its residency program. A new type of Golden Visa is now available through a nomination system, which has some conditions, unlike the old system that required big investments in property or business.
This update is especially helpful for Indian citizens, who form one of the largest expat groups in the UAE.
Now, the Golden Visa is open to nurses, teachers, and content creators—not just business owners, investors, students, and experts. Many are drawn to the UAE for its tax benefits, modern infrastructure, and safe environment.
What the Golden Visa was earlier
The program started in 2019 mainly for wealthy people who invested in real estate. In 2022, the property investment limit for a 10-year visa was reduced to AED 2 million, allowing more people to qualify. People could also get the visa by investing a lot in a UAE-based business.
What the New Golden Visa Program Offers
The UAE has expanded its Golden Visa program. Earlier, it was only for investors, business owners, and top students. Now, more people can apply — like:
- Scientists, company executives, frontline workers
- Teachers, principals, and university staff
- Nurses with over 15 years of experience
- YouTubers, podcasters, and digital content creators
- Recognized e-sports professionals (age 25+)
- Luxury yacht owners and people in the marine business
What’s New for Indians
Under the new nomination-based system, Indian citizens can now get a lifetime Golden Visa by paying a fee of AED 100,000 (around ₹23.3 lakh).
People involved in the process told PTI that more than 5,000 Indians are expected to apply in the next three months.
India Part of First Test
India and Bangladesh are the first two countries chosen to try out this new visa system. A company called Rayad Group is helping test the process in India. Its head, Rayad Kamal Ayub, said that this is a great chance for Indians to get long-term residency in the UAE
The Selection Process
Rayad Kamal told PTI that when someone applies for the new UAE Golden Visa, the first step is a background check. This includes checking for any criminal history, money-related issues, and the applicant’s social media.
They will also see how the person can contribute to the UAE — whether it’s through business, culture, science, finance, start-ups, or other professional services.
Once this check is done, Rayad Group will send the application to the UAE government, which will make the final decision on giving the visa.
Good news — applicants don’t need to visit Dubai for this. They can get pre-approval from their home country.
People in India and Bangladesh can apply through:
- One VASCO centres (visa help centres)
- Rayad Group’s offices
- Online portal
- Dedicated call centre
Benefits of the UAE’s Golden Visa
Once someone gets the UAE Golden Visa, they can bring their family to live in Dubai. They are also allowed to hire helpers or drivers.
“You can do any kind of business or professional work with this visa,” said Rayad Kamal. He added that if you got a Golden Visa based on property and later sell that property, the visa ends. But the nomination-based Golden Visa lasts forever.
This new visa also shows how strong the relationship between India and the UAE has become, especially after the CEPA agreement (a trade deal) that started in May 2022.
The nomination-based Golden Visa is part of a special agreement between the UAE and countries that have signed CEPA with them. The program has started with India and Bangladesh, and will later include China and other countries.
The companies RayadGroup and VFS are in charge of checking applications before sending them to the UAE government for final approval.
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