A recent report has caused a wave of excitement among Indians after it claimed that the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has introduced a new “nomination-based” Golden Visa programme offering permanent residency for just Rs 23 lakh. The claim quickly spread across media and social platforms, with many suggesting that Indians could now secure lifetime residency in the UAE for a one-time payment of AED 100,000. However, official authorities have since clarified that no such scheme exists, urging the public to rely only on verified government sources.
The Origin of the Claim
The story gained attention after a report from the Press Trust of India (PTI) suggested that the UAE had launched a new visa policy under which Indians and Bangladeshis could obtain lifetime Golden Visas for a fee of around Rs 23.3 lakh. The report cited statements attributed to a Dubai-based consultancy, which claimed to be piloting the initiative in India.
The alleged policy was said to be “nomination-based,” meaning eligible applicants could be recommended for permanent residency without meeting traditional investment or professional criteria. The offer’s affordability, compared to existing Golden Visa requirements, immediately caught public interest.
However, as the story gained traction, immigration consultants and media outlets began raising questions about its authenticity. The UAE’s immigration authority later confirmed that it had not introduced any such policy, and the consultancy involved issued an apology for the confusion.
What the UAE Golden Visa Actually Is
The UAE Golden Visa programme, first introduced in 2019, allows long-term residency for investors, entrepreneurs, professionals, and students who meet specific eligibility criteria. It is part of the government’s wider effort to attract global talent and investment while supporting economic diversification.
The programme offers 5- or 10-year renewable residency visas depending on the applicant’s category. However, these visas are not granted for a one-time payment or flat fee. Instead, applicants must qualify through investment, professional achievements, or educational excellence.
Here’s what the official Golden Visa categories require:
- Investors: Applicants must invest at least AED 2 million (approximately Rs 4.67 crore) in a UAE-accredited fund or property. The investment must be made with owned capital and not through loans. Applicants are also required to maintain valid medical insurance and, in some cases, meet annual tax obligations.
- Entrepreneurs: Eligible entrepreneurs should own a business valued at over AED 500,000 (about Rs 1.17 crore), preferably in technology or innovation sectors. They must obtain approvals from certified auditors, business incubators, and local authorities.
- Specialised Talents: Professionals such as doctors, scientists, researchers, executives, artists, and athletes can qualify through endorsements from relevant UAE government bodies. Executives must demonstrate at least five years of experience and a minimum monthly salary of AED 50,000 (approximately Rs 11.7 lakh).
- Students: Exceptional high school and university students may be granted 5- to 10-year visas. Eligibility is based on high academic performance — for example, students with 95 percent or higher marks in high school or top GPAs from globally ranked universities.
- Humanitarian Workers and Frontline Heroes: Individuals who have made outstanding humanitarian or community contributions may also be eligible upon verification by approved authorities.
No Official Lifetime Visa Scheme
Following the surge in reports about the Rs 23 lakh lifetime visa, the UAE’s Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP) issued a formal clarification denying any such scheme. The authority emphasized that all Golden Visa applications must go through official government channels and warned against paying external agents or consultancies promoting unverified offers.
The Dubai-based company mentioned in the viral reports later issued a public apology, confirming that its statements were misinterpreted. It clarified that there was no officially approved lifetime Golden Visa for a one-time payment and that residency approvals remain subject to strict eligibility checks.
Why the Confusion Matters
The rapid spread of the misinformation highlights the growing global interest in the UAE’s Golden Visa programme. The country’s stable economy, tax benefits, and high standard of living have made it one of the most desirable destinations for investors and professionals alike.
However, immigration experts caution that misleading claims can lead to financial losses for unsuspecting applicants. Unverified “quick visa” offers have become a growing issue worldwide, and applicants are urged to verify any claims directly through the UAE government’s official visa portals.
The Reality Behind the Numbers
While a one-time payment of Rs 23 lakh might seem like an attractive offer, the current Golden Visa framework is far more complex. It involves rigorous documentation, background checks, and validation by UAE authorities. The visa is not for sale — it is a merit-based residency programme designed to attract qualified professionals and long-term investors who can contribute to the national economy.
Experts note that the cost of securing a Golden Visa through legitimate means can vary widely depending on the category and supporting expenses. These include investment capital, legal fees, and processing costs — often amounting to several crores of rupees, not a flat Rs 23 lakh.
The Bottom Line
The claim that Indians can now obtain a UAE Golden Visa for Rs 23 lakh is inaccurate. There has been no official change to the UAE’s visa policies or fee structures. The Golden Visa remains a prestigious long-term residency programme reserved for investors, entrepreneurs, professionals, and exceptional students who meet established criteria.
Until any official announcement is made by the UAE government, reports of a fixed-fee lifetime visa should be treated with skepticism. Prospective applicants are advised to consult only recognized government websites or licensed immigration advisors before proceeding with any residency or investment applications.
