No, UAE Is Not Selling Golden Visa To Indians. But These Countries Are...

Last Updated:July 09, 2025, 14:09 IST

UAE has denied a new Golden Visa route for Indians, warning of scams. Genuine Golden Visa options exist in countries like New Zealand, Portugal, Spain, Italy, USA and Canada

Several countries offer Golden Visas or residency-by-investment schemes that pave the way to citizenship via substantial investments. (News18)

The United Arab Emirates’ Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) has dismissed reports of a new ‘nomination-based’ Golden Visa scheme for Indians, warning against fraudulent offers circulating online.

UAE Golden Visa Fraud Case

According to a report by Business Standard, a press release by a consultancy firm, Rayad Group, falsely claimed that Indians could secure lifelong residency and even citizenship by paying AED 100,000 (approximately Rs 23 lakh), without needing to invest heavily in property or business. The release also named visa processing company VFS Global as a partner and suggested that India and Bangladesh were part of a pilot programme.

Immigration expert Prashant Ajmera described the claims as “completely fake" and cautioned that such scams prey on Indians seeking opportunities to live abroad, especially in countries like the UAE.

In a statement issued on July 8, the ICP clarified that all Golden Visa applications are handled exclusively through official government channels. It confirmed that eligibility criteria and procedures are governed by UAE laws and ministerial decisions. The authority urged the public to rely solely on official sources, such as the ICP’s website or app, for accurate information.

The ICP further warned that legal action will be pursued against entities spreading false information to exploit applicants financially.

What Is A Golden Visa?

A Golden Visa is a residency-by-investment programme allowing foreign nationals to obtain long-term residency, and in some cases citizenship, in exchange for significant economic investments. These programmes are designed to attract wealthy investors who contribute to the local economy through real estate, business ventures, government bonds, or job creation.

Golden Visa holders typically gain the right to live, work, and study in the host country, often with visa-free travel across certain regions. Many programmes offer a pathway to permanent residency or citizenship after meeting specific residency and integration criteria.

People seek Golden Visas for better lifestyle opportunities, access to education and healthcare, enhanced global mobility, and as a secure alternative residence in times of political or economic uncertainty. Additionally, Golden Visas can support tax planning and international wealth diversification.

Countries Offering Golden Visas

Several countries now offer Golden Visas or residency-by-investment schemes that pave the way to citizenship via substantial investments.

High-Cost US Golden Visa Initiative: Recently announced under former President Trump, the so-called ‘Trump Gold Card’ aimed to allow investors US permanent residency in exchange for a planned investment of around US$5 million. However, this programme remains on hold and has not yet commenced.New Zealand’s Active Investor Plus Visa: Launched in September 2022, New Zealand’s Active Investor Plus Visa offers indefinite residency to those investing a minimum of NZ$5 million (Rs25–26 crore). It is tailored to entrepreneurs, particularly those engaging in start‑ups or innovation sectors.Canada’s Startup Visa: Known as the Canada Startup Visa Programme, this scheme targets entrepreneurs and investors launching new ventures. The cost ranges from US$215,000 to US$275,000 (approximately Rs 1.8–2.3 crore), granting permanent residency upon acceptance.Italy Investor Visa: Introduced in 2017, Italy’s Investor Visa grants a two‑year residence permit, renewable for three years. Applicants must invest in government bonds, equity in companies, innovative start‑ups, or donate €1 million to public‑interest projects. After five years, permanent residency is attainable, and citizenship after ten years, with the added advantage of Schengen travel and no full-time residency requirement.

Other Major Citizenship-By-Investment Programmes

Portugal: €500k investment → Citizenship in 5 years (minimum stay applies)Spain: €500k investment → Citizenship in 10 years (residency required)Greece: €250k property → Citizenship in 7 years (residency required)Malta: €600k–€750k donation/investment → Citizenship in 12–36 monthsTurkey: US$400k real estate → Citizenship in 3–6 months (no residency needed)Vanuatu: US$130k+ donation → Citizenship in 1–2 months (no residency)Dominica & St Kitts & Nevis: US$100k+ donation → Citizenship in 2–6 months (no residency)

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