UAE Golden Visa for Indians: New Rules and Detailed Insights

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has long been a magnet for global talent, entrepreneurs, and investors, offering a dynamic blend of economic opportunities, tax-free benefits, and a high quality of life. The UAE Golden Visa, introduced in 2019, has been a cornerstone of the country’s strategy to attract skilled professionals and high-net-worth individuals. In a significant policy shift announced on July 7, 2025, the UAE has introduced a nomination-based Golden Visa scheme specifically targeting Indian nationals, among others, eliminating the need for substantial property or business investments. This article delves into the new rules, eligibility criteria, application process, benefits, and broader implications of this transformative initiative for Indians seeking long-term residency in the UAE.

What is the UAE Golden Visa?

The UAE Golden Visa is a long-term residency permit designed to attract exceptional talent, investors, entrepreneurs, and professionals to live, work, and study in the UAE without the need for a local sponsor. Unlike traditional visas, which often require frequent renewals or employer sponsorship, the Golden Visa offers renewable residency for 5 or 10 years, and in some cases, lifetime residency. The program, initially launched to target high-net-worth individuals, has evolved to include a broader range of professionals and contributors to the UAE’s economy and society.

The new nomination-based Golden Visa scheme marks a departure from the traditional investment-heavy model, making it more accessible to Indian professionals and talented individuals. This change aligns with the UAE’s vision to strengthen its knowledge-based economy and deepen economic and cultural ties with India, particularly under the UAE–India Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) signed in 2022.

New Rules and Changes for Indians (July 2025)

Elimination of Investment Requirements

Historically, Indian nationals could secure a Golden Visa primarily by investing at least AED 2 million (approximately ₹4.66 crore) in property or making significant business investments in the UAE. The new nomination-based scheme, launched on a pilot basis in July 2025, removes these barriers, allowing eligible Indians to obtain lifetime residency by paying a one-time fee of AED 100,000 (approximately ₹23.3 lakh). This eliminates the need to purchase property, hold a trade license, or make large-scale business investments, making the Golden Visa more accessible to a wider pool of applicants.

Nomination-Based Eligibility

Under the new rules, eligibility is determined through a nomination process rather than financial investment. Applicants are evaluated based on their professional background, societal contributions, and potential to benefit the UAE’s key sectors, including:

• Culture: Contributions to art, literature, or media.
• Finance: Expertise in banking, fintech, or investment.
• Trade: Involvement in import/export or logistics.
• Science: Research or innovation in fields like biotechnology or AI.
• Startups: Entrepreneurial ventures with growth potential.
• Professional Services: Skills in education, healthcare, or corporate sectors.

This shift broadens the scope of eligibility to include professionals such as:

• Senior professionals in education, healthcare, and corporate sectors.
• Experienced nurses with over 15 years of service.
• University lecturers and school teachers.
• Digital creators, including YouTubers, podcasters, authors, and filmmakers.
• E-sports players aged 25 and above.
• Coders and IT professionals with expertise in software engineering or related fields.
• Luxury yacht owners and maritime industry workers.

Background and Vetting Process

The nomination-based Golden Visa requires a rigorous vetting process to ensure applicants align with the UAE’s economic and societal goals. The process includes:

• Anti-Money Laundering Checks: To verify the applicant’s financial integrity.
• Criminal Background Verification: To ensure no criminal history.
• Social Media Screening: To assess the applicant’s public persona and societal contributions.

The vetting is managed by Rayad Group, in partnership with VFS Global and One Vasco, which evaluates whether applicants can contribute to the UAE’s market through their skills or expertise. The final decision rests with UAE government authorities.

Pilot Phase and Expected Impact

The nomination-based Golden Visa is currently in a pilot phase, with India and Bangladesh selected as the first countries to benefit. Over 5,000 Indian applicants are expected to apply within the first three months, reflecting the significant demand among Indian professionals. If successful, the program may expand to other CEPA partner countries, such as China.

Eligibility Criteria

The nomination-based Golden Visa targets individuals with specialized skills or contributions. Key eligibility criteria include:

• Professional Expertise: Applicants must demonstrate expertise or experience in sectors prioritized by the UAE, such as healthcare, education, technology, or digital content creation.
• No Investment Requirement: Unlike the traditional Golden Visa, no property or business investment is needed.
• One-Time Fee: A fixed fee of AED 100,000 covers application processing, administrative costs, and lifetime eligibility. This fee is non-recurring, and the visa remains valid even if the holder no longer works or invests in the UAE.
• Background Checks: Applicants must pass anti-money laundering, criminal, and social media screenings to qualify.

For comparison, the traditional investment-based Golden Visa routes remain available and include:

• Real Estate Investors: A minimum investment of AED 2 million in property.
• Entrepreneurs: Ownership of a tech-based or innovative business valued at AED 500,000, approved by a UAE business incubator.
• Skilled Professionals: A minimum monthly salary of AED 30,000 in fields like healthcare, engineering, or IT.
• Outstanding Students: High school students with a minimum 95% score or university students with a GPA of 3.5 or higher.

Application Process

The application process for the nomination-based Golden Visa is streamlined and can be completed without visiting the UAE initially. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Contact an Authorized Agent: Applications are managed by Rayad Group in partnership with VFS Global and One Vasco. Applicants can submit nominations through One Vasco centers in India (located in Delhi, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Pune), Rayad Group’s registered offices, their online portal, or a dedicated call center.
2. Submit Nomination: Provide details of your qualifications, professional background, and intent to contribute to the UAE’s economy or society.
3. Pay the Fee: Submit the one-time fee of AED 100,000 (approximately ₹23.3 lakh).
4. Undergo Background Checks: Complete anti-money laundering, criminal, and social media screenings.
5. Receive Approval: Once approved by UAE authorities, the Golden Visa is issued, granting lifetime residency.

For those applying through traditional routes, applications can be submitted via the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) website (www.icp.gov.ae) or the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) for Dubai-specific visas.

Processing Time

The nomination-based visa application typically takes 30 to 60 days, depending on document verification and security clearances. Fast-track processing (within 30 days) is available through government channels for eligible applicants.

Benefits of the UAE Golden Visa

The Golden Visa offers a range of benefits that make it highly attractive for Indian nationals:

• Lifetime Residency: Unlike property-based visas, which lapse if the property is sold, the nomination-based Golden Visa provides permanent residency without renewal requirements.
• Family Sponsorship: Holders can sponsor their spouse, children, and even domestic staff (e.g., drivers or servants) for residency in the UAE.
• No Local Sponsor Required: The visa allows self-sponsorship, eliminating the need for a UAE national or employer to act as a sponsor.
• Freedom of Movement: Holders can travel in and out of the UAE without restrictions and maintain residency even during extended periods abroad.
• Business Opportunities: The visa grants 100% business ownership, enabling entrepreneurs to operate without local partners.
• Tax-Free Environment: The UAE’s lack of personal income tax makes it an attractive destination for professionals and entrepreneurs.
• Access to World-Class Amenities: Residents enjoy premium healthcare, education, and lifestyle options in cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

Implications for Indian Nationals

The new nomination-based Golden Visa is a game-changer for Indian professionals, entrepreneurs, and digital creators. With over 3.5 million Indians living in the UAE, representing one of the largest expatriate communities, this policy enhances opportunities for skilled individuals to establish long-term roots in the country. The initiative reflects the strengthening ties between India and the UAE, particularly following the CEPA agreement, which has facilitated smoother migration, trade, and business exchanges.

Economic and Cultural Impact

The UAE’s decision to ease Golden Visa requirements for Indians aligns with its goal of attracting global talent to bolster its knowledge-based economy. By including professionals like nurses, teachers, and digital creators, the UAE is diversifying its talent pool and fostering innovation in sectors like healthcare, education, and technology. For India, this presents an opportunity for professionals to access a tax-free, business-friendly environment while contributing to the UAE’s growth. The expected influx of 5,000 Indian applicants in the first three months underscores the program’s appeal.

Comparison with Other Residency Programs

The UAE’s nomination-based Golden Visa stands out compared to similar programs in other countries. For instance, Canada’s Express Entry system requires permanent residency applicants to meet points-based criteria, often involving language proficiency and job offers. The UAE’s program, by contrast, focuses on professional contributions and a one-time fee, offering lifetime residency without the need for continuous renewals. Similarly, Portugal’s Golden Visa requires a €280,000–€500,000 investment, a higher threshold than the UAE’s AED 100,000 fee for nomination-based applicants.

Challenges and Considerations

While the new scheme is promising, applicants should be aware of potential challenges:

• Rigorous Vetting: The background checks, including social media screening, may be stringent, requiring applicants to maintain a clean public profile.
• Fee Accessibility: While significantly lower than the previous AED 2 million investment, the AED 100,000 fee may still be a barrier for some professionals.
• Pilot Phase Uncertainty: As a pilot program, the nomination-based scheme’s long-term success and expansion to other countries remain uncertain.

Applicants are advised to work with authorized agents like Rayad Group or VFS Global to ensure compliance with all requirements and avoid delays.

How to Prepare for the Application

To maximize your chances of securing a nomination-based Golden Visa, consider the following tips:

• Highlight Relevant Experience: Emphasize your expertise in sectors valued by the UAE, such as healthcare, education, or technology.
• Prepare Documentation: Gather proof of professional qualifications, work experience, and any awards or recognitions.
• Maintain a Clean Record: Ensure no criminal history or financial irregularities, as these will be thoroughly checked.
• Engage Authorized Agents: Use reputable services like Rayad Group or VFS Global to navigate the application process efficiently.

Conclusion

The UAE’s new nomination-based Golden Visa scheme, launched on July 7, 2025, marks a significant step toward making long-term residency more accessible for Indian nationals. By eliminating the need for large investments and focusing on professional contributions, the UAE is opening its doors to a diverse range of talent, from nurses and teachers to digital creators and e-sports players. With a one-time fee of AED 100,000, lifetime residency, and the ability to sponsor family members, this program offers unparalleled opportunities for Indians seeking to live, work, and thrive in the UAE.

For Indian professionals and entrepreneurs, the Golden Visa is more than a residency permit—it’s a gateway to a tax-free, business-friendly environment with world-class infrastructure. As the UAE continues to strengthen its ties with India through initiatives like the CEPA, this program is poised to attract thousands of skilled individuals, further cementing the UAE’s position as a global hub for talent and innovation. For those interested, now is the time to explore this golden opportunity and take the first step toward a future in the UAE.

For more information or to start your application, visit the official ICP website (www.icp.gov.ae) or contact authorized agents like FastTreck Travels or VFS Global.

Disclaimer: Visa policies and requirements are subject to change. Always verify details with official UAE government sources or authorized agents before applying.