The United Arab Emirates (UAE)’s federal authority for identity, citizenship, customs and port security has issued a strong clarification following misleading reports in Indian media suggesting that Indian nationals can obtain a lifetime UAE golden visa by paying UAE dirham (AED)100,000 through unauthorised consultancy firms.
The authority has categorically denied these claims, stating that no consultancy—either within or outside the UAE—is authorised to process golden visa applications. Officials have described the reports as entirely false, lacking any legal basis, and urged the public not to be misled by such misinformation.
According to the authority, all golden visa applications must be submitted exclusively through official government platforms within the UAE. The application process is governed by clearly defined regulations and eligibility categories, all of which are available on the authority’s official website and smart application. No external party or private consultancy is recognised as part of this process.
The recent confusion appears to have originated from a misinterpretation of a pilot nomination-based pathway that is still under development. While the UAE has expanded the scope of the golden visa to include professionals in fields such as science, technology, medicine, education and the arts, these categories are still subject to proper nomination procedures and thorough vetting before approval is granted. Claims that the visa can be obtained simply by paying a fee misrepresent the actual requirements and processes involved, it says.
Some media reports and promotional materials from overseas consultancy firms have falsely suggested that applicants—particularly from India—can bypass traditional criteria such as property investments of AED2mn (million) or other substantial business commitments by paying AED100,000 for guaranteed lifetime residency. These claims are not supported by UAE law and were reportedly made without coordination with UAE authorities, the authority says.
The authority noted that certain consultancy offices based outside the UAE have been advertising simplified procedures for obtaining a golden visa, often targeting individuals eager to settle in the country. These offers are illegal and deceptive. The government reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining a secure and transparent system for all residency applicants and warned that legal action will be taken against anyone involved in spreading false information or attempting to collect money through fraudulent means.
A UAE golden visa is a long-term residency permit that grants foreign nationals the right to live, work and study in the country for an extended period—usually up to 10 years—with renewal options. Unlike traditional residence visas, it does not require employment or business sponsorship and offers greater flexibility. Holders can sponsor their family members, own property, set up businesses and maintain residency even during extended absences from the UAE.
As of 2025, the UAE offers 12 official golden visa categories, including options for investors, entrepreneurs, specialised talents, outstanding students, humanitarian pioneers and frontline workers. Five new categories introduced this year cover nurses, educators, content creators, e-sports professionals and luxury yacht owners. However, all of these still require applicants to meet specific criteria and complete the formal application process through authorised government channels.
The authority strongly urged potential applicants to verify all information through official sources before making any decisions. Accurate details about golden visa categories, eligibility requirements, and application procedures are available on the authority’s website and through its 24-hour call centre at 600522222. The incident highlights the importance of relying on trusted government platforms rather than third-party consultancies or media reports that may misrepresent UAE policies.
