UAE: Golden Visas for crypto investors? Authorities officially say ‘NO'
In response to growing misinformation circulating online, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has officially clarified that Golden Visas are not being issued to cryptocurrency investors.
The statement, made by three key national regulatory bodies, firmly denied claims suggesting otherwise.
The joint clarification was released by the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICP), the Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA), and the Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA).
False Claims Spark Official Denial
The statement was prompted by false reports on websites and social media platforms, which suggested that holders of virtual assets, particularly cryptocurrency, were eligible for the UAE's long-term Golden Residency visa.
A specific claim drew attention after Max Crown, CEO of the Ton Foundation, tweeted on July 6 that Ton holders had 'the exclusive chance to secure a 10-year Golden Visa' after paying a one-time fee of $35,000, subject to other conditions. This assertion quickly spread online, leading to confusion among investors.
Responding directly to these claims, VARA clarified that Ton is not licensed or regulated by the authority.
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It also stated that any licensed 'company' must strictly adhere to visa procedures set by the Dubai government. VARA further confirmed that 'claims of granting golden residency to virtual asset investors in the Emirate of Dubai are false', and urged the public to interact only with licensed and regulated companies.
Who Actually Qualifies for the
UAE Golden Visa
?
The ICP clarified that the long-term Golden Residency visa is available only to specific groups, such as:
Real estate investors
Entrepreneurs
Outstanding talents
Scientists and specialists
Top students and graduates
Humanitarian pioneers
Frontline workers
Superyacht Owners: Individuals with yachts of at least 40 meters
Crypto investors or virtual asset holders are not included in the official list of eligible categories.
Authorities Urge Caution and Verification
The Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA) echoed the warnings, stating that digital currency investments are governed by strict regulations and that 'such investments are not linked to a Golden Visa.' The SCA emphasized the need for investors to rely on credible and official sources of information.
All three authorities jointly advised the public to verify any information related to investment benefits and visa privileges directly from official government websites or approved channels. They also strongly cautioned against engaging with unreliable advertisements or offers found online.
Finally, for accurate and up-to-date details about Golden Residency conditions, the public is encouraged to visit the ICP's official website.
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