UAE opens direct Rs 23 lakh route for Indian Golden Visa. All you need to know

India Today

08-07-2025

The UAE just launched a nomination-based Golden Visa for Indians, no trade licence or property needed. You pay a one-time fee of AED 100,000 (around Rs23.3lakh), and after vetting, you get permanent residency. That's a big shift from earlier rules requiring an AED 2million investment in real estate or business.WHO'S ELIGIBLE?Now open to anyone who boosts the UAE's economy or culture, from scientists, teachers and nurses with 15+ years' experience to startup founders, YouTubers, podcasters, esports athletes, maritime pros and yacht owners. Rayad Group, with partners like VFS and One Vasco, handles applications in India.advertisementTHE PROCESS IN BRIEF1. Nomination by authorised bodies.2. Background checks: AML, criminal records, social media reviews.3. Fee payment: AED 100,000.4. Final approval from UAE authorities no need to visit the UAE during the process.WHY IT MATTERS?
This new UAE nomination-based visa remains valid for life, even if you sell property or close a business. You can bring family, drivers, domestic helpers, and work freely, unshackled by previous investment rules.Over 5,000 Indians are expected to apply within the first three months. This move strengthens cooperation under the India-UAE CEPA, effective May 2022, and is a pilot ahead of expansion to other countries like China.WHAT STAYS THE SAME?Other Golden Visa options remain, like AED 2million in real estate, AED 500,000 in startups, or recognised talent categories (doctors, nurses, teachers, humanitarian workers, content creators, esports athletes, etc.).PEOPLE ALSO ASK THESE QUESTIONS:Q1. How to apply for UAE Golden Visa from India?To apply for the new nomination-based UAE Golden Visa from India:1. Nomination: You need to be nominated by authorised entities such as the Rayad Group, which operates with partners like VFS and One Vasco.2. Eligibility Check: Your background will be vetted, this includes criminal records, anti-money laundering checks, and even your social media activity.3. Pay the fee: If approved, you must pay AED 100,000 (approximately Rs 23 lakh).4. Approval: After verification and payment, the UAE government issues the Golden Visa.5. No need to visit the UAE during the process. Everything can be done remotely from India.Q2. Is the UAE giving a Golden Visa for Rs 23 lakh?Yes. As per the new nomination-based route, eligible Indians can now get the UAE Golden Visa by paying AED 100,000, which is roughly Rs 23 lakh. This method does not require property ownership or a trade licence, unlike earlier.Q3. What are the benefits of UAE Golden Visa 2025?Some of the major benefits of the UAE Golden Visa include:Lifetime residency in the UAE.No need to maintain property or business once the visa is granted.Freedom to work or start a business in the UAE.Sponsorship of family members, domestic workers, and drivers.Travel flexibility and long-term stability without the usual visa renewals.advertisementIs the UAE giving a Golden Visa for Rs 23 lakh?Yes, under the new process, eligible Indians can get a UAE Golden Visa by paying AED 100,000, which is about Rs 23 lakh. This is a nomination-based route, so not everyone qualifies automatically. You must meet certain criteria and pass background checks.Q5. Is the Golden Visa a lifetime?Yes, under this new nomination-based model, the UAE Golden Visa is granted for life. You do not need to invest in property or keep a trade licence active to maintain the visa. Once issued, it remains valid even if you no longer own assets in the UAE.- EndsMust Watch