UAE Golden Visa: Why ₹23 Lakh isn’t enough - nomination-based route demands more than money
New Delhi: The United Arab Emirates’ newly launched nomination-based Golden Visa programme has drawn significant interest in India, with over 5,000 applicants expected in just three months. But despite the advertised cost of AED 100,000 (approx. ₹23.3 lakh), the visa is not guaranteed by money alone.
According to the UAE government, this long-term residency permit hinges on a range of eligibility criteria including professional background, contributions to society, and economic potential, not merely payment.
India & Bangladesh chosen for pilot phase
In the first phase of the rollout, India and Bangladesh have been selected to pilot the nomination-based system. In India, the process is being coordinated through Rayad Group, a consultancy authorised to accept and process applications locally, without requiring applicants to travel to the UAE initially.
Rayad Group MD, Rayad Kamal Ayub, explained that the visa process involves strict screening, including background checks for criminal records, financial credibility, and even social media activity. Only after this pre-approval phase will applications be forwarded to the UAE government for final selection.
Applications can be submitted through One Vasco centres in India and Bangladesh, via Rayad’s online portal, or through their official call centres.
Not one-size-fits-all: Category-wise requirements
Each Golden Visa category, investors, entrepreneurs, professionals, students, and humanitarian workers has distinct benchmarks:
Investors must invest AED 2 million (approx. ₹4.67 crore) in property or funds (excluding loans), pay AED 250,000 annually in UAE taxes, and hold valid medical insurance.
Entrepreneurs need a business worth AED 500,000 (approx. ₹1.17 crore) in tech or innovation, backed by auditors and government-recognised incubators.
Specialised Talents, like scientists, artists, doctors, or senior executives, need endorsements from UAE bodies and may have to show high salaries and extensive experience.
Students eligible for the visa must be high school toppers (above 95%) or hold top GPAs in globally ranked universities.
Humanitarian Workers & Frontline Heroes must show documented service and recognition by authorised organisations.
Step-by-step application process
► Choose a category – Based on profession, background, or investment.
► Gather documents – Endorsements, financial records, ID proof, certificates.
► Apply through proper channel – Traditional route via ICP website/app or nomination route via Rayad Group, VFS Global, or One Vasco.
► Clear background check – For legal, financial, and digital credibility.
► Wait for approval – If accepted, applicants receive long-term UAE residency along with rights to live, work, sponsor family, and establish businesses.
The Golden Visa offers residency options ranging from 5 to 10 years, depending on category and contributions.
The UAE’s move is being seen as an effort to attract top global talent and investments, while also tightening checks to ensure only genuine contributors are granted the prestigious visa.
While the ₹23 lakh fee may be the starting point, officials have stressed that the visa is not up for sale, it is reserved for those who bring real value to the Emirates.
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Inappropriate for MLAs seeking free IPL tickets, says D.K. Suresh
Bengaluru: Bengaluru Milk Union Ltd President D.K. Suresh on Monday said it is inappropriate for MLAs to seek free IPL tickets, adding that those interested in watching matches should pay for them personally.
Speaking to reporters near his residence in Sadashivanagar, he said, “IPL is a commercial tournament and does not represent the country. It is not right for public representatives to focus too much on such matters.”
Referring to the recent controversy during the RCB celebrations, he said, “let us find out who benefited the most from the statements made during the incident.” He also pointed out that BJP MLAs had received IPL tickets as well.
Responding to discussions about relocating the Chinnaswamy Stadium, Suresh said the government has already approved the construction of a new stadium at a location he had proposed.
“I had suggested building a stadium in Surya City and submitted a proposal for it. Bengaluru needs four stadiums in four directions to cater to its growing population and encourage youth participation in sports,” he said.
He noted that apart from Kanteerava Stadium, KSCA, and the Football Stadium, there are limited facilities in the city.
“When I was a Lok Sabha member, I had proposed allocating 100 acres in my constituency at Surya City. The land was later earmarked and the plan approved,” he added.
Suresh said he has discussed the project with Minister Zameer Ahmed Khan, Rajiv Gandhi Housing Corporation Chairman Shivalingegowda, and Anekal MLA Shivanna.
“The Cabinet has now approved the project, and a stadium will be developed on around 50–60 acres,” he said.
He further added that he has requested the Deputy Chief Minister to build another stadium at Shivarama Karanth Layout through the BDA, where 40 acres have been allocated. Plans are also being discussed to develop a well-equipped stadium in Bidadi.
Commending state government's recent bilingual policy move, Suresh said forcing children to learn three languages could affect their comprehension.
“It is a good decision to make two languages compulsory. Learning a third language should be left to the choice of students and parents,” he said.
Responding to criticism from BJP leaders, he said their tendency is to oppose every decision of the government.
“To please their central leadership, they take a pro-Hindi stance. Instead, they should advocate for the adoption of Kannada in all states,” he said.
When asked about the earlier three-language policy under Congress, he said, “the situation is different now. Today, the focus should be on quality learning. Kannada should remain the primary language, while students and parents can choose an additional language.”
