UAE introduces nomination-based Golden Visa, expands eligibility across professional sectors

Srinagar, July 8: In a significant departure from its traditional investment-linked residency system, the United Arab Emirates has launched a nomination-based Golden Visa scheme, allowing eligible Indian nationals to obtain lifetime residency by paying a one-time fee of AED 100,000 (approximately ₹23.3 lakh). The new model eliminates the need for property or business investments.

Previously, Indian citizens could access the UAE's Golden Visa primarily through substantial investments, including a minimum of AED 2 million (around ₹4.66 crore) in real estate. Under the revised framework, applicants can now be nominated based on their professional achievements, contributions to society, or potential to support key sectors such as culture, science, finance, startups, and trade.

First launched in 2019, the Golden Visa program was initially designed to attract high-net-worth individuals through property and business investments.

However, in a major policy expansion announced in May 2025, the program now includes a much broader group of eligible professionals. The Gulf nation, thus, is moving beyond the original focus on entrepreneurs, investors, and top-performing students.

The newly introduced nomination-based UAE Golden Visa now opens lifetime residency opportunities to a broader group of professionals and creatives, including:

Scientists, researchers, and corporate executives

Frontline healthcare and essential workers

School teachers, principals, and university faculty

Nurses with over 15 years of professional experience

Digital content creators such as YouTubers, podcasters, and influencers

Accredited e-sports professionals aged 25 and above

Luxury yacht owners and maritime industry executives

Eligible Indian citizens can obtain the Golden Visa by paying a one-time fee of AED 100,000 (approximately ₹23.3 lakh), without the need for prior investment in real estate or business. Officials estimate that over 5,000 Indian applicants are likely to pursue the visa within the first three months of the new policy rollout.

Applicants can now secure pre-approval from their home country without having to travel to Dubai. Submissions can be made through:

One Vasco centres (a visa concierge service)

Rayad Group’s registered offices

The official online portal