UAE's New Golden Visa vs Real Estate-Linked Lifetime Residency: Key Differences
The UAE's new Golden Visa offers lifetime residency for a one-time payment of ₹23.30 lakh, removing the requirement for real estate investment. This new system aims to attract a diverse range of global contributors.
Uae Golden VisaLifetime ResidencyReal Estate VisaPermanent ResidencyNominationbased VisaReal Estate NewsJul 08, 2025
This new visa system has been initially extended to India and Bangladesh as a pilot program to test its efficiency. The primary goal of this initiative is to diversify the UAE’s talent pool beyond ultra-wealthy individuals and attract global contributors across multiple industries.
The visa’s final approval rests with the UAE authorities, who have set stringent criteria to ensure the integrity and value of the program. Here are some key checkpoints that applicants must meet:
- The visa is designed for mid-career professionals, entrepreneurs, creators, and individuals with significant contributions in sectors such as healthcare, media, innovation, or humanitarian work.
- Applicants must undergo anti-money laundering clearance, have a clean criminal background, and even have their social media audits vetted by the relevant authorities.
UAE-based Rayad Group and VFS Global, a leading visa service provider, have been selected to vet the applicants and forward them to the authorities for final approval.
The new Golden Visa differs significantly from the old real estate-linked residency program. Under the previous system, applicants were required to invest at least AED 2 million (roughly ₹4.7 crore) in the UAE’s local property market. However, this model had a significant drawback: if the property was sold or divided, the visa could be revoked. The old system offered a 10-year residency, which could be renewed.
In contrast, the nomination-based visa removes the requirement for asset ownership altogether. This new scheme offers permanent residency in the country, even for individuals who do not own real estate or have business interests in the UAE. This makes the visa more accessible to skilled professionals who may not have the financial means to purchase luxury properties but possess valuable knowledge and experience to contribute to the UAE’s growth.
The introduction of the Golden Visa opens doors for a broader range of individuals, including those who may not have the funds to invest in real estate but can bring valuable skills and expertise to the UAE. This initiative is part of the UAE’s broader strategy to attract and retain top talent, fostering innovation and economic growth in the region.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of the new Golden Visa?
The new Golden Visa costs ₹23.30 lakh for lifetime residency in the UAE.
Who is eligible for the Golden Visa?
The Golden Visa is designed for mid-career professionals, entrepreneurs, creators, and individuals with significant contributions in sectors such as healthcare, media, innovation, or humanitarian work.
What are the requirements for the Golden Visa?
Applicants must undergo anti-money laundering clearance, have a clean criminal background, and have their social media audited by the relevant authorities.
How does the new Golden Visa differ from the old real estate-linked residency?
The new Golden Visa does not require real estate investment and offers permanent residency, whereas the old system required a minimum AED 2 million investment in real estate and could be revoked if the property was sold or divided.
Which countries are currently eligible for the Golden Visa?
The new Golden Visa system has been initially extended to India and Bangladesh as a pilot program.
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