Debunked: The Rs 23 Lakh UAE Golden Visa Myth and the Real Paths Indians Can Take
The United Arab Emirates has long been a hotspot for Indian professionals, investors, and entrepreneurs. With its high standard of living, business-friendly policies, and cultural diversity, it continues to attract people seeking long-term opportunities.
The Golden Visa has been a significant draw, offering eligible individuals and families the opportunity to reside in the UAE with extended residency rights.
Recently, headlines around a “lifetime Golden Visa for Rs 23 lakh” made waves across Indian media. However, the UAE government has since addressed the confusion.
In this blog, we break down the actual facts, debunk misleading claims, and guide you through the legitimate Golden Visa process for Indian applicants.
What Is the UAE Golden Visa?
The UAE Golden Visa is a long-term residency program designed to attract skilled professionals, investors, entrepreneurs, and outstanding students. Introduced in 2019, this visa allows individuals to live, work, and study in the UAE without the need for a local sponsor. The standard visa duration is 5 or 10 years, with the possibility of renewal.
Holders of the Golden Visa can sponsor their family members, access healthcare and education, and enjoy long-term stability in one of the most dynamic economies in the Middle East.
What Actually Happened: Clarifying the Rs 23 Lakh Golden Visa Rumor
Recent media reports suggested that the UAE had launched a new one-time payment Golden Visa scheme for Indian and Bangladeshi nationals, requiring a payment of AED 100,000 (approximately Rs 23 lakh). These reports described a visa available without investment in real estate or businesses, positioning it as a “lifetime residency.”
This claim quickly gained traction. However, the UAE’s Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) has since issued a clear denial. The authority confirmed there is no such offer of a lifetime Golden Visa in exchange for a flat payment.
Moreover, UAE officials emphasized that all Golden Visa applications must go through official government channels, and no external consultants or agencies are authorized to process or guarantee visas.
The confusion appears to have stemmed from a pilot nomination-based process discussed by a few agencies. While it targeted mid-career professionals in sectors like digital media, education, maritime, and healthcare, the initiative was not a publicly announced or government-approved policy.
No such program was ever officially launched or recognized as part of the UAE’s Golden Visa structure.
Who Is Actually Eligible for the UAE Golden Visa?
While the "Rs 23 lakh visa" may not exist, there are still clear and legitimate paths for Indian nationals to obtain the Golden Visa under the standard framework. The main categories include:
| Category | Eligibility Criteria |
|---|---|
| Investors in Public Investments or Real Estate | Individuals who invest a minimum of AED 2 million in the UAE, whether in business or property. |
| Entrepreneurs | Founders of businesses registered in the UAE with annual revenue exceeding AED 1 million, or those who have sold a successful start-up for AED 7 million or more. |
| Highly Skilled Professionals | Doctors, engineers, IT experts, and other professionals with a minimum salary of AED 30,000 per month and a valid UAE employment contract. |
| Exceptional Talents | Artists, inventors, athletes, and creative professionals with documented achievements or international recognition. |
| Outstanding Students and Graduates | Top-performing students from UAE schools or globally ranked universities, especially those recommended by their academic institutions. |
| Humanitarian Workers and Frontline Heroes | Individuals who have made significant contributions to humanitarian work or served in frontline roles during crises. |
Benefits of the UAE Golden Visa
The standard Golden Visa offers a host of long-term advantages, such as:
- Residency for 5 or 10 years, renewable
- No need for a local sponsor
- Inclusion of family members, including children up to age 25
- Freedom to own real estate and establish businesses
- Access to UAE healthcare and education
- Simplified travel and visa re-entry process
Golden Visa holders also receive a special Emirates ID that provides them with additional benefits in banking, education, and government services.
How to Apply: The Legitimate Process
To apply for a UAE Golden Visa, follow these steps:
Determine Eligibility
Identify the correct category based on your profile—investor, entrepreneur, skilled professional, student, or exceptional talent.
Prepare Documentation
Required documents typically include your passport, proof of investment or employment, salary slips, educational qualifications, and health insurance.
Submit Your Application Online
Applications must be submitted through official portals such as the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICP) or the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA).
Undergo Medical and Security Checks
A standard medical test and background check are required for all applicants.
Receive Your Residency Visa and Emirates ID
Once approved, you will be issued a long-term residency visa and Emirates ID.
Confused by the Rs 23 Lakh UAE Golden Visa Buzz? Let’s Set the Record Straight.
From understanding the real eligibility requirements to exploring the most efficient and affordable pathways for Indians, the UAE Golden Visa doesn’t have to be complicated.
At 10xM, we break down misinformation and guide you through the legitimate routes to long-term residency in the UAE, whether through business, real estate, or specialized talent categories.
Cut through the hype. Book a free consultation today and discover your true path to the UAE Golden Visa.
