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The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has introduced a groundbreaking nomination-based Golden Visa program tailored for Indian nationals, eliminating the traditional requirements of substantial property investment or trade license ownership. This initiative provides a streamlined pathway to long-term residency in the UAE, requiring a one-time fee of AED 100,000 (approximately Rs 23.3 lakh). This significant shift in policy aims to attract individuals who can contribute to the UAE's economic and cultural landscape, broadening the scope of eligibility beyond traditional investors and business owners. The previous requirements, which often involved an investment of AED 2 million in real estate or business ventures, presented a substantial barrier to entry for many talented individuals. By removing these stringent criteria, the UAE is signaling its commitment to fostering a more inclusive and diverse community of residents. The new nomination-based system opens doors for a wider range of professionals and individuals who can contribute their skills, expertise, and creativity to the UAE's growth and development. This strategic move is expected to attract a significant influx of talent from India, further strengthening the bilateral relationship between the two countries and boosting the UAE's economy. The UAE's decision to introduce this nomination-based Golden Visa program for Indians is a bold step towards attracting global talent and fostering economic growth. By removing the traditional barriers to entry, such as the need for substantial property investment or trade license ownership, the UAE is making itself a more attractive destination for skilled professionals and entrepreneurs from India. This initiative is expected to have a significant impact on the UAE's economy and its standing as a global hub for innovation and creativity. The program targets individuals who can contribute to the UAE's economy or culture, including scientists, teachers, nurses with 15+ years' experience, startup founders, YouTubers, podcasters, esports athletes, maritime professionals, and yacht owners. This diverse range of eligible candidates reflects the UAE's commitment to attracting talent from various fields and industries. The Rayad Group, in collaboration with partners like VFS and One Vasco, is responsible for managing the application process in India, ensuring a smooth and efficient experience for applicants. This partnership leverages the expertise of established organizations in visa processing and immigration services, providing applicants with comprehensive support and guidance throughout the application process. The introduction of this new visa program is a testament to the strong economic and cultural ties between India and the UAE, and it is expected to further strengthen these ties in the years to come.
The application process involves several key steps, starting with nomination by authorized bodies like the Rayad Group. This nomination serves as an initial screening process, ensuring that applicants meet the basic eligibility criteria. Following nomination, applicants undergo thorough background checks, including anti-money laundering (AML) investigations, criminal record reviews, and social media evaluations. These comprehensive checks are crucial to maintaining the integrity of the Golden Visa program and ensuring that only individuals with a clean record and a positive reputation are granted residency. Once the background checks are completed and the applicant is deemed eligible, the next step is to pay the AED 100,000 fee. Upon payment, the application is submitted to the UAE authorities for final approval. A significant advantage of this new process is that applicants are not required to visit the UAE during any stage of the application process. Everything can be handled remotely from India, making it a convenient and accessible option for those seeking long-term residency in the UAE. This streamlined process minimizes the logistical challenges and costs associated with international travel, making it easier for talented individuals to pursue opportunities in the UAE. The validity of the nomination-based Golden Visa extends for life, even if the holder sells property or closes a business in the UAE. This provides a significant level of security and stability for residents, allowing them to focus on their professional and personal development without the constant worry of visa renewals or changes in investment requirements. The program also allows Golden Visa holders to sponsor family members, drivers, and domestic helpers, creating a supportive environment for individuals who choose to relocate to the UAE. This comprehensive package of benefits makes the UAE Golden Visa a highly attractive option for skilled professionals and entrepreneurs seeking a long-term home in the Middle East.
The UAE expects over 5,000 Indians to apply for the nomination-based Golden Visa within the first three months of its launch. This ambitious target reflects the UAE's confidence in the program's appeal and its potential to attract a significant influx of talent from India. The introduction of this new visa program aligns with the India-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), which came into effect in May 2022. The CEPA aims to strengthen economic cooperation between the two countries by reducing trade barriers, promoting investment, and fostering collaboration in various sectors. The nomination-based Golden Visa program is seen as a key component of this broader effort to enhance bilateral relations and facilitate the movement of skilled professionals and entrepreneurs between India and the UAE. The UAE intends to expand the Golden Visa program to other countries like China in the future, indicating its commitment to attracting global talent and becoming a leading international hub for innovation and economic growth. While the nomination-based route is a significant addition to the Golden Visa options, other existing pathways remain available. These include investing AED 2 million in real estate, AED 500,000 in startups, or qualifying as a recognized talent in fields such as medicine, education, humanitarian work, content creation, and esports. This multi-faceted approach ensures that the Golden Visa program caters to a wide range of individuals with diverse backgrounds and skillsets. The program's emphasis on attracting talented professionals, entrepreneurs, and innovators underscores the UAE's commitment to building a knowledge-based economy and fostering a dynamic and competitive business environment. The UAE's ongoing efforts to attract global talent and promote economic growth are a testament to its vision and ambition, and the nomination-based Golden Visa program is a key component of this broader strategy.
Source: UAE golden visa nomination based no investment long term residency AED 100000 fee