The United Arab Emirates has clarified that digital currency investments do not make individuals eligible for its golden visa programme, amid a wave of misleading claims circulating online. The clarification was issued by three national authorities, which stated that cryptocurrency holdings are not part of the official criteria for long-term residency.
According to a report by the Emirates News Agency (WAM), the clarification came in a joint statement issued by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP), the Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA), and the Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA). The authorities made it clear that cryptocurrency investments do not fall under the official criteria for the country’s long-term residency programme.
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They reiterated that golden visas are granted only to individuals who meet specific conditions, such as real estate investment, entrepreneurship, exceptional talent, scientific contribution, academic excellence, humanitarian work, or frontline service. The public has been advised to consult official government platforms for accurate and up-to-date information.
As per the WAM report, the SCA reaffirmed that digital asset investments are governed separately and are not linked to residency benefits. The authority also underlined its focus on transparency and investor protection, in line with globally accepted regulatory standards. VARA supported this perspective, stating that virtual asset investors in Dubai are not automatically eligible for golden visas.
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In response to specific rumours, VARA made it clear that the authority does not license or control the company TON. It also pointed out that all licensed virtual asset firms are required to follow visa-related procedures set by both Dubai and federal agencies.
The three authorities cautioned the public against responding to unofficial advertisements or online promotions that falsely claim cryptocurrency investments can lead to golden visa benefits. Any such claims should be approached with caution, the WAM report added.
The UAE’s golden visa is a long-term residency programme that permits foreign nationals to reside, work, or study in the country without requiring a local sponsor. It includes benefits such as a validity of up to 10 years, family sponsorship, and the option to stay outside the UAE for extended periods without affecting residency status.
