In a groundbreaking policy shift, the United Arab Emirates has introduced a nomination-based Golden Visa program for Indian citizens and Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), offering lifetime residency for a one-time fee of AED 100,000 (approximately ₹23.3 lakh). Launched as a pilot program targeting India and Bangladesh, this initiative eliminates the need for substantial property or business investments, making long-term residency in the UAE more accessible to a broader range of Indian professionals, entrepreneurs, and skilled individuals.
A New Pathway for Indian Talent
The UAE Golden Visa, introduced in 2019, was initially designed for high-net-worth individuals, requiring investments such as AED 2 million (₹4.66 crore) in real estate or significant business ventures. The new nomination-based system, rolled out on July 6, 2025, marks a significant departure, allowing eligible Indians to secure permanent residency without such financial commitments. Applicants are evaluated based on their professional background, societal contributions, or potential to enhance UAE’s sectors like culture, trade, science, startups, and finance.
Rayad Kamal Ayub, Managing Director of Rayad Group, which facilitates the program in India, described it as a “golden opportunity for Indians,” stating, “This visa offers lifelong residency, the freedom to live, work, and study in the UAE, and the ability to sponsor family and domestic staff, all without the burden of maintaining investments.”
Key Features and Benefits
The nomination-based Golden Visa offers significant advantages for Indians and NRIs:
- Lifetime Residency: Unlike traditional Golden Visas, which lapse if investments are sold, this visa remains valid for life, providing unmatched stability.
- No Investment Required: The one-time fee of AED 100,000 replaces the previous AED 2 million investment threshold, making the program accessible to professionals like nurses, teachers, content creators, e-sports players, and coders.
- Family Sponsorship: Visa holders can sponsor spouses, children (regardless of age), and unlimited domestic helpers, ensuring family unity.
- Business and Work Freedom: Recipients can pursue professional or entrepreneurial ventures without a local sponsor, benefiting from the UAE’s tax-free environment and world-class infrastructure.
- Streamlined Application: Applications are processed through Rayad Group, in partnership with VFS Global and One Vasco centers across India, with no need to visit the UAE beforehand. The process includes rigorous anti-money laundering, criminal background, and social media checks.
Alignment with UAE-India Ties
The initiative reflects the strengthening economic and cultural ties between India and the UAE, bolstered by the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) signed in 2022. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, speaking at the BRICS Summit 2025 in Rio de Janeiro, emphasized India’s role in fostering global connectivity, stating, “Our advancements in digital infrastructure, like UPI, are creating seamless opportunities for our diaspora to engage with India and its partners like the UAE.” This Golden Visa program aligns with these goals, encouraging Indian talent to contribute to the UAE’s knowledge-based economy.
The UAE expects over 5,000 Indian applications in the first three months, underscoring the program’s appeal. If successful, it may expand to other CEPA partners, such as China.
Impact on NRIs
For NRIs, particularly those in the UAE, this policy is a game-changer. Previously, NRIs faced tax implications under India’s Finance Act 2020, which introduced deemed residency for those in zero-tax jurisdictions like the UAE. The Golden Visa’s lifetime residency offers NRIs stability to maintain their UAE base while managing Indian-sourced income, potentially leveraging India-UAE Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) benefits for reduced tax rates on dividends and interest.
How to Apply
Indians and NRIs can apply through:
- VFS Global or One Vasco centers in major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Pune.
- Rayad Group’s online portal or dedicated call center.
- Submission Process: Applicants submit qualifications and undergo background checks. Upon approval, the AED 100,000 fee is paid, and the visa is issued.
A Strategic Move for the UAE
The UAE’s policy shift aims to attract global talent and deepen ties with India, home to nearly 30% of the UAE’s expatriate population. “This program is about building a diverse, skilled resident base to drive innovation and growth,” said a UAE official involved in the process. The initiative complements other digital advancements, such as UPI’s global expansion, which allows NRIs in the UAE to transact seamlessly with India.
For more details on UPI’s role in connecting NRIs, read our coverage: UPI Goes Global: NRIs Can Now Use International SIMs for Instant Payments.
Stay tuned to NRI News Club for updates on the UAE Golden Visa and other opportunities for the Indian diaspora!