In a landmark move, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has introduced a new route for Indian citizens to obtain the prestigious Golden Visa — now without the need to buy property or launch a business. This shift is part of a pilot program that simplifies the path to long-term residency, specifically targeting skilled Indian professionals and creators.

The Golden Visa offers a 10-year or lifetime residency permit that allows foreigners to live, work, or study in the UAE without needing a local sponsor. With the new update, eligible Indians can apply by nomination through approved UAE partners and pay a one-time fee of AED 100,000 (approximately ₹23.3 lakh).

This initiative reflects the UAE’s strategic efforts to strengthen its knowledge-based economy and deepen ties with India under the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), signed in 2022. The program is expected to receive over 5,000 applications in its first 90 days.

What’s New for Indians?

Under the new scheme:

• No property purchase, business license, or investment is needed.
  

• Applicants must be nominated by approved UAE partner organizations.
  

• A fixed one-time fee of AED 100,000 covers lifetime visa eligibility, including admin costs.
  

• No recurring taxes or investment maintenance required.
  

The visa allows unrestricted re-entry and continued residency even if the holder spends extended periods outside the UAE.

Who Can Apply?

The pilot program is open to individuals with experience or expertise in sectors of interest to the UAE, such as:

• Senior professionals in education, healthcare, and corporates
  

• University lecturers, school teachers, and experienced nurses
  

• Digital creators (YouTubers, podcasters, filmmakers, authors)
  

• Coders, esports professionals, yacht owners, and maritime workers
  

Application Process:

1. Contact an authorized agent. The Rayad Group, in partnership with VFS Global and One Vasco, is managing the nomination process in India.
   

2. Submit your qualifications and background at One Vasco centres.
   

3. Pay the one-time fee.
   

4. Complete background checks, including criminal, financial, and social media history.
   

5. Receive Golden Visa approval and lifetime residency rights upon clearance.
   

This simplified path to UAE residency makes the Golden Visa more accessible to talented Indians from non-investment backgrounds, marking a significant policy shift in the region’s migration landscape.