A long-term visa once accessible only to millionaires is now knocking on the doors of India’s rising upper middle class — but with a catch.
In a move that has triggered a wave of excitement and curiosity, the UAE has dramatically lowered the cost of its coveted Golden Visa for eligible Indians — from a whopping ₹4.67 crore to approximately ₹23 lakh. But before you pack your bags for Dubai, let’s unravel what this really means.
Initially launched in 2019, the UAE Golden Visa was introduced to attract investors, entrepreneurs, scientists, and exceptional talent from across the world. It offered a stable, long-term residency in one of the most business-friendly nations on the planet — complete with perks like no income tax, no capital gains tax, and zero inheritance tax.
Until recently, gaining this elite status required a serious investment in real estate or business. But now, a new “nomination-based” category is gaining traction — especially among Indian professionals, digital creators, doctors, startup founders, and high-achieving individuals.
No, It’s Not a ₹23 Lakh Pay-to-Stay Scheme
The reduced cost has sparked headlines and social media chatter, but experts are quick to point out that this isn’t a discount deal for everyone. As Paresh Karia, CEO of Acquest Advisors, clarifies:
“The ₹23 lakh fee is only applicable after the applicant has been nominated and approved by a relevant UAE authority. This isn’t an open sale; it’s a merit-based selection process.”
Translation? You can’t just pay your way in. You need to earn your way in — through credentials, innovation, income, or influence.
Who’s Eligible?
The Golden Visa now recognises contributions across four broad categories:
- Business & Real Estate Investors
(Traditional route: minimum AED 2 million, approx. ₹4.67 crore) - Entrepreneurs
(Investment of ₹1.16 crore or more) - Professionals & Specialists
(High-income earners with ₹11 lakh+ annual salary) - Outstanding Talents & Achievers
(Doctors, scientists, tech experts, content creators, students, humanitarian workers)
It is this last category — the nomination-based route — that has sparked renewed interest, especially among Indian professionals who may not be asset-rich, but are rich in potential.
So What Is a Nomination-Based Golden Visa?
While the term may sound new, it’s essentially a formalisation of an existing practice in the UAE, where long-term residency was quietly offered to outstanding individuals recommended by government bodies or semi-government institutions.
“Think of it as the Oscars of immigration,” says Karia.
“You don’t apply for a ticket; you get nominated for the performance you’ve already delivered.”
What’s changed is the transparency and accessibility of this process. Parameters are becoming clearer — from income thresholds to innovation benchmarks — making it easier for aspirants to align their profiles and apply proactively, instead of waiting for an invitation.
From Property to Potential: UAE’s Strategic Shift
The nomination model reflects a larger shift in the UAE’s immigration strategy — away from asset-based access and towards skill- and contribution-based residency. This means entrepreneurs without large capital, techies with big ideas, or professionals with social impact now stand a real chance.
In fact, the new approach sends a strong message: “We don’t just want your money. We want your mind, your skill, your innovation.”
And that message is resonating loudly across India.
What’s the Application Process Like?
If you’re eyeing this golden opportunity, here’s how it works:
- Eligibility Check & Nomination
Your profile must stand out — through innovation, high income, expertise, or achievements. Government or semi-government entities nominate you based on your merit. - Background Verification
Includes checks on financial history, criminal records, and social media behaviour. Anti-money laundering and KYC norms are strictly applied. - Impact Assessment
Authorities evaluate your potential to contribute to UAE’s society and economy — via commerce, science, education, or culture. - Approval & Payment
Upon approval, the Rs 23 lakh fee is paid, followed by visa issuance — without the need for pre-travel to the UAE.
Final Word: Not for Everyone, But Definitely More Accessible
Let’s be clear: this isn’t a golden ticket available on a discount shelf. But it is a bold recalibration of who qualifies as “valuable” in today’s global economy.
The UAE isn’t just welcoming billionaires anymore — it’s wooing bold thinkers, creators, innovators, and changemakers.
So, if you’re a high-achieving Indian with global ambitions, the desert just turned into fertile ground.
