Truth Behind UAE's Lifetime Golden Visa: Here's What You Should Know

Over the past few days, talk of a "lifetime" UAE Golden Visa, reportedly offered to Indians and Bangladeshis for just AED 100,000 (around Rs 23 lakh), has been making rounds over WhatsApp groups, media feeds, and social platforms. However, the UAE's federal authorities have stepped in with a firm denial of any such Visa offering.

What was being pitched as a unique and revolutionary "nomination-based" Golden Visa, promising permanent residency for a one-time fee turned out to be, quite simply, a misleading narrative. In fact, it was not only misleading, it was also entirely unofficial, not supported by any government agency, and, as the UAE authorities put it, a 'rumour'.

What triggered the buzz?

The initial noise seems to have originated from a Dubai-based advisory group, Rayad Group, which admitted to exploring a "nomination-based" visa collaboration. Their framing, complete with references to a lifetime visa and fixed fee, sparked speculation that certain nationalities were being given a special deal.

However, following the backlash, the group issued a clarification. The proposal, they said, was exploratory in nature and not an official program. "We take full responsibility for the confusion," their statement read, acknowledging that misplaced comments by senior members had added fuel to the fire.

To provide much needed clarification, the UAE's immigration authority, the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) has put it plainly: Golden Visa applications are only processed through official government portals. No internal or external consultancy is recognised as an authorised party in the application process.

What exactly is the Golden Visa, then?

Unlike the supposed "lifetime" visa offer, the real Golden Visa system has been around for a while. It is the UAE's long-term residency programme designed to attract investors, entrepreneurs, exceptional talent, and high-achieving students.

It grants 5 to 10-year renewable visas, depending on the applicant's category and qualifications. However, one should know that there is no automatic pathway to citizenship, and no lifetime guarantee. Every application is scrutinised, and eligibility is clearly defined by UAE laws.

The Golden Visa is primarily offered under four broad categories:

Business and Real Estate Investors (minimum investment: AED 2 million or approx. Rs 4.67 crore)

Entrepreneurs project value: at least AED 500,000 or approx. Rs 1.17 crore)

Specialised Talent including doctors, scientists, creatives, and top performers in sport and academia

Outstanding Students and graduates from UAE schools and universities

So while the programme does make it easier for highly accomplished or well-funded individuals to settle in the UAE, there is no shortcut, no flat-rate offer, and definitely no "lifetime" visa for Rs 23 lakh.

Why it matters

According to Jasmeet S Anand, a UAE-based real estate and cross-border investment advisor, the incident highlights a familiar problem in today's information economy: viral content being mistaken for verified policy. "It's crucial that people cross-check any major immigration or financial claim with official sources," he cautioned. "Especially when it sounds too good to be true."

In this case, social media channels and private firms may have gained momentary attention, but at the cost of public trust and clarity. As for the Rayad Group, they have now discontinued all private advisory services related to the Golden Visa following the backlash.

Bottom line

People should know that the UAE has not launched any lifetime residency visa for any nationality. The Golden Visa system remains intact, but it comes with clear rules, financial thresholds, and a government-only application process.