Why not every Indian with Rs 23 lakh can get UAE Golden Visa? What are the conditions

Time of India

08-07-2025

While the new nomination-based UAE Golden Visa model for Indians has drawn widespread attention for offering lifetime residency at a one-time cost of AED 1,00,000 (approx. ₹23.3 lakh), the process isn't as simple as just paying the fee.
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Not everyone with the money qualifies automatically, according to the official UAE government website.
The UAE's Golden Visa is a long-term residence permit that allows foreign nationals to live, work, or study in the Emirates. Benefits include a 5- or 10-year renewable visa, multiple-entry options, no sponsor requirement, the ability to stay outside the UAE for extended periods, and full sponsorship rights for family and domestic help.
However, eligibility criteria differ depending on the applicant's background—be it investment, talent, entrepreneurship, or academics. For example, investors must either place AED 2 million in a UAE-accredited fund or own qualifying real estate of similar value. Additionally, they must submit proof of medical insurance and verify that the capital is not loaned.
So why can't everyone buy it?
Despite the introduction of a nomination-based model that appears to reduce the investment barrier, eligibility remains strictly controlled and approval is not guaranteed merely by paying the fee. According to the official UAE websites, each category—be it investor, entrepreneur, student, or professional—has specific documentation and approval requirements. Here's what the categories entail:
Investors: Must invest AED 2 million (Rs 4,67,64,760 aprox.) in a UAE-accredited fund or property and prove capital ownership (not a loan). They must also provide medical insurance and pay AED 250,000 annually in UAE taxes to qualify for a 10-year visa.
Must invest AED 2 million (Rs 4,67,64,760 aprox.) in a UAE-accredited fund or property and prove capital ownership (not a loan). They must also provide medical insurance and pay AED 250,000 annually in UAE taxes to qualify for a 10-year visa. Entrepreneurs: Must own a business valued at over AED 500,000 (1,16,91,190 aprox.) in a tech or innovation sector and get approvals from auditors, incubators, and local authorities.
Must own a business valued at over AED 500,000 (1,16,91,190 aprox.) in a tech or innovation sector and get approvals from auditors, incubators, and local authorities. Specialised talents: Doctors, artists, scientists, executives, and athletes need endorsements from government bodies. Executives also need a salary certificate of at least AED 50,000 (11,69,119 aprox) and a five-year experience letter.
Doctors, artists, scientists, executives, and athletes need endorsements from government bodies. Executives also need a salary certificate of at least AED 50,000 (11,69,119 aprox) and a five-year experience letter. Students: High school toppers with 95% marks or university students with high GPAs from top-rated global institutions may be granted visas of 5–10 years.
High school toppers with 95% marks or university students with high GPAs from top-rated global institutions may be granted visas of 5–10 years. Humanitarian workers and frontline heroes: Require verification of long-term service or recognised contributions to qualify.
What about the Rs 23 lakh option?
The nomination-based Golden Visa—recently opened to Indian and Bangladeshi citizens—is being offered through authorised agencies like Rayad Group, VFS, and One Vasco.
It waives the property or business investment requirement but applies vetting based on profession, societal contributions, and potential economic value to the UAE.
Rayad Kamal Ayub, Managing Director of Rayad Group, said, 'This is a golden opportunity for Indians,' but clarified that applicants must pass criminal background, anti-money laundering, and social media checks. Final approval lies solely with the UAE authorities.
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Application process explained
Whether applying under the traditional or nomination-based model, here is a general outline of how the application process works:
Choose the right category: Determine if you qualify as an investor, entrepreneur, student, talent, or humanitarian worker.
Collect supporting documents: Depending on your category, gather required letters (from auditors, government bodies, universities, etc.), financial statements, certificates, and passport copies.
Apply online or via an authorised agency:
For traditional routes, visit the ICP website or ICP App.
For nomination-based visas, contact agencies like Rayad Group or visit a VFS/One Vasco centre.
Use the 'One Touch' Golden Visa service (optional): This consolidated service allows applicants to handle all paperwork, visa issuance, identity documentation, and renewals in one step.
Await background verification: Authorities will conduct checks on criminal history, financial compliance, and online behaviour.
Receive approval and Golden Visa: If successful, you receive a long-term residence visa and can bring family members, hire staff, and start business or professional activities in the UAE.
Still confused? Official channels can help
For further clarification or eligibility assessments:
Contact ICP (Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security)
For Dubai-specific inquiries, contact GDRFAD (General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs - Dubai)
Despite the recent changes making access seemingly easier, the UAE Golden Visa remains a merit-based system. Whether applying through investment, academic excellence, or nomination, it requires more than just a bank balance.