The United Arab Emirates has officially denied reports claiming the country is offering lifetime Golden Visas to individuals from specific nationalities, labeling such claims as misleading and baseless. This clarification was reported by the Emirates News Agency-WAM.
In a statement released by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP), authorities stated that certain local and international media outlets and websites have falsely reported that UAE Golden Visas can be obtained for life by paying a one-time fee or through foreign consultancy offices.
This clarification follows several Indian news outlets, including The Times of India, The Hindu, and Press Trust of India (PTI), reporting on a “nomination-based” Golden Visa pilot program. These reports suggested that individuals from India and Bangladesh could now obtain lifetime Golden Visas without property or business investment, simply by paying a one-time fee of AED 100,000.
However, the ICP has unequivocally clarified that all regulations governing the Golden Visa scheme—including eligible categories, conditions, and application procedures—are clearly defined by UAE legislation. These visas can only be applied for through official government channels, and no private internal or external entity is authorized to process or guarantee applications.
The statement was issued after articles circulated by a consultancy firm based outside the UAE, which claimed to facilitate lifetime Golden Visas for foreign nationals under relaxed requirements. The ICP confirmed that these reports were made without coordination with UAE authorities and possess no legal validity.
The Authority has reaffirmed its commitment to a transparent and secure application system, accessible exclusively through official digital platforms such as the ICP website and mobile app. It also warned the public against falling for false promises and cautioned individuals against sharing personal documents or paying any fees to unverified third parties.
The ICP explicitly warned that legal action will be taken against entities spreading misinformation in an attempt to exploit people’s aspirations for a better life in the UAE. The ICP urged all potential applicants to verify any Golden Visa information directly through official UAE channels or by calling their 24/7 call centre at 600522222.
The Golden Visa is a long-term residence permit that enables foreign nationals to reside, work, and study in the UAE while enjoying exclusive benefits. It is typically granted to investors, entrepreneurs, scientists, outstanding students and graduates, humanitarian workers, and frontline heroes. Applicants are assessed based on their investment, professional achievement, academic excellence, and contributions to key sectors such as trade, science, culture, or finance.
