
The UAE has launched a groundbreaking nomination-based Golden Visa for Indians, offering lifetime residency without investment
A Golden Opportunity: UAE’s New Visa Revolutionizes Residency to Indians
In a landmark move that’s already creating waves across South Asia, the United Arab Emirates has launched a nomination-based Golden Visa program offering lifetime residency to Indian nationals without requiring any investment in property or business. For a one-time fee of AED 100,000 (approximately ₹23.3 lakh), eligible applicants can secure permanent residency in one of the world’s most dynamic economies.
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This initiative marks a dramatic departure from the UAE’s earlier visa models, which demanded a minimum investment of AED 2 million (₹4.66 crore) in real estate or business ventures. Now, the focus has shifted from wealth to talent, contribution, and credibility. The program is currently in its pilot phase, with India and Bangladesh selected as the first countries to participate.
Applicants will undergo rigorous background checks, including anti-money laundering compliance, criminal record screening, and even social media audits. The UAE government will assess each candidate’s potential to contribute to the nation’s economy, culture, or innovation ecosystem.
The visa also allows for family sponsorship, employment of domestic help, and the freedom to engage in any professional or business activity within the UAE. Unlike previous visas, this one is not tied to asset ownership, making it a truly permanent solution for those seeking long-term stability in the Gulf.
Who’s Eligible? From Nurses to YouTubers, UAE Opens Doors to Diverse Talent
The new Golden Visa (Lifetime Residency) is designed to attract a broad spectrum of skilled professionals, not just high-net-worth individuals. The eligibility list reads like a celebration of modern expertise:
- Educators and university faculty
- Scientists and researchers
- Nurses with 15+ years of experience
- Digital creators, YouTubers, and podcasters
- Accredited e-sports professionals
- Luxury yacht owners and maritime executives
- Top-performing students and entrepreneurs
This inclusive approach reflects the UAE’s ambition to become a global hub for innovation, culture, and entrepreneurship. It also aligns with the country’s Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) with India, which aims to deepen bilateral ties across trade, migration, and investment.
The Rayad Group, in partnership with VFS Global, has been tasked with facilitating the application process in India. Applicants can apply through dedicated visa concierge centres or online portals, with pre-approval possible without visiting the UAE.
The government expects over 5,000 applications in the first three months, signalling strong demand from Indian professionals seeking global mobility, tax advantages, and a higher quality of life.
Beyond Status: What This Means for India-UAE Relations and Global Migration Trends
This visa launch is more than just a policy tweak, it’s a strategic signal. The UAE is positioning itself as a magnet for global talent, moving away from wealth-based immigration to a meritocratic model that values skills, creativity, and social impact.
For India, this is a diplomatic and economic win. With over 3.5 million Indians living in the UAE, the Golden Visa (Lifetime Residency) strengthens the bridge between the two nations. It also offers a lifeline to professionals disillusioned by bureaucratic hurdles, high taxation, or limited global exposure at home.
Social media reactions have been mixed. While many hail it as a “golden ticket” for Indian professionals, others see it as a status symbol for elites or a reflection of India’s brain drain. One user quipped, “When a nation values your potential more than your passport, migration becomes clarity, not escape”.
Critics argue that the ₹23 lakh fee may still be prohibitive for many deserving candidates. However, supporters counter that the lifetime benefits zero income tax, world-class infrastructure, and business freedom, far outweigh the cost.
This move also puts pressure on other Gulf nations to modernize their immigration policies. As the global competition for talent intensifies, countries that offer flexibility, dignity, and opportunity will emerge as the new power centers of the 21st century.
Conclusion:
The UAE’s new Golden Visa (Lifetime Residency) is a game-changer for Indian professionals seeking global opportunity without the burden of massive investments. By valuing talent over capital, the Emirates is rewriting the rules of migration and offering a golden bridge to those ready to cross it.
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