UAE Golden Visa for Indians & Bangladeshis: Separating Facts from Fiction
Uncover the truth behind the AED 100K lifetime visa story and understand the real Golden Visa eligibility
In the last couple of weeks, social media, WhatsApp forwards, and some unofficial news outlets have been buzzing with sensational headlines claiming that the UAE is offering a “lifetime Golden Visa” to Indian and Bangladeshi nationals for a one-time fee of AED 100,000. Numerous individuals were led to believe this apparently massive offer granted residency forever, family sponsorship, and benefits without requiring any property, business, or educational investments. These sensational headlines fueled the dream of most expats hoping for long-term security in the UAE.
But behind the viral messaging were a lot of untrue statements. The UAE government has completely denied this “lifetime visa” option and made it clear that there are no recognisable schemes or programs like that available to the general public. What really transpired was a controlled nomination-based pilot program for targeted individuals only (Merchants) from India and Bangladesh to apply for the regular ten-year Golden Visa status, if they satisfy stringent evaluation, documentation, and eligibility criteria.
This blog post will attempt to clarify the truth behind those messages, unravel the fake news, and explain how you genuinely qualify for the UAE Golden Visa program so you will not be part of a fraud or get cast as a victim of someone else’s false promises.
What Sparked the Buzz About a Lifetime Golden Visa?
In early July 2025, social media and WhatsApp groups were buzzing with claims that the UAE was offering Indians and Bangladeshis lifetime Golden Visas for a one-time payment of AED 100,000 (approximately ₹23.3 lakh). Many believed this included guaranteed approval, residency rights for the entire family, and possibly, no requirement to invest in property or business.
But the UAE government now says, “not true.” So, here are the facts.
Is the Lifetime Golden Visa Real?
No, there isn’t a “lifetime” Golden Visa in the UAE for any nationality. The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) has more specifically denied there is such a thing as a life-long program that can be obtained by some nationality.
There was confusion with a legitimate initiative by the UAE that was a pilot project that allows specific Indian and Bangladeshi citizens to apply for the regular 10-year Golden Visa through authorized nomination programs.
Nomination is possible through authorized licensed companies business groups through the dependent visa requirements for nomination, but being accepted is discretionary and not guaranteed!
So to clarify for the public, this is not an initiative that is a general scheme or offered through purchase.
What Is Actually True About the AED 100K Visa?
• Indian and Bangladeshi applicants can apply under nomination-based pilot programs.
• The AED 100,000 fee covers government fees, service fees and nomination management by registered consultants.
• Applicants must still fulfil the immigration criteria related to professional qualifications, business investment or significant achievements.
• If granted, the visa is valid for 10 years, may be renewed—not a lifetime visa.
• For actual migrants, his/her spouse and children may be added, if family is a part of the application depends on case-by-case basis.
How Did the “Lifetime Golden Visa” Rumor Go Viral?
The confusion around an alleged ‘lifetime Golden Visa’ did not come from legitimate sources but rather from material released by unlicensed agents and consultants attempting to monetize the public interest. Their false claims were quickly circulated on WhatsApp Groups, YouTube channels, and TikTok reels to create an impression of a government-run sanctioned offer.
One of these consulting firms, Rayad Group, was at the center of a debacle when its offering “lifetime visa for AED 100,000” was publicly shared, and after a public outrage and subsequent scrutiny from the government, issued a formal apology making it clear that no lifetime visa exists under UAE law.
This incident serves as an important reminder: always confirm visa offers with licensed, government-approved consultants and do not get trapped by everyone else’s “too good to be true” schemes found on social media.
What Is the Golden Visa Really About?
Launched in 2019, the UAE Golden Visa is a long-term 10-year residency program aiming to attract:
• Investors & entrepreneurs
• Qualified professionals
• Scientists & researchers
• Creative talents
• Exceptional students
It is one of several projects in the UAE’s overall plan to attract global talent, foster innovation and help in economic diversification.
How Can You Apply for the Real Golden Visa?
You can apply through:
Standard pathways: via property investment (AED 2M+), business ownership, or academic/professional credentials
Nomination-based channels: where certain sectors, institutions, or consultancies refer candidates to the government
Every application is reviewed and approved by government authorities such as the DLD, MOHRE, or Ministry of Education, depending on the category.
Avoid Falling for Fake Visa Claims
Before proceeding with any Golden Visa offer
Confirm the agent is government-approved
Get clarity for visa legitimacy and approval before signing anything
Confirm legality of nomination source
Avoid anyone that claims “guaranteed lifetime approval” for something after paying money
The UAE takes immigration fraud very seriously, and victims may lose their money or be blacklisted.
No, the UAE has not implemented an official lifetime Golden Visa. The online rumors of a one-time visa for AED 100,000 are inaccurate. The legitimate Golden Visa program that exists provides renewable 10-year residency for qualifying Indian and Bangladeshi nationals investing in the UAE or using their skills and the skills on their CV-s.
Indian and Bangladeshi citizens can apply through standard Golden Visa options (real estate, business ownership or talent) and pilot nomination programs. These are legitimate 10-year visas, subject to approval by UAE immigration authorities.
The AED 100,000 fee is composed of government fees, documentation requirements, medical test fees, Emirates ID processing fees and nomination support from a licensed consultant. Neither the AED 100,000 support or any of the applicants led efforts to obtain the Golden Visa guarantee approval to live indefinitely in the UAE.
Eligible applicants consist of investors, entrepreneurs, skilled professionals (physicians, engineers, etc), scientists, creative talents and students high achievement. Each qualified category approved through emphasis set forth by UAE immigration authority.
Yes. In addition to the property investment of AED 2 million, you may apply based on business ownership, ownership of a startup incubation business, professional excellence, or education level or academic credentials.
Yes. You may include spouse(s), children, and even domestic staff in the application. The approval will depend on the documentation submitted in accordance with government guidelines based on the particular case.
Yes. The golden Visa is renewable, as long as the applicant maintains the eligibility criteria (e.g., continued investment, business activity in UAE, or professional activity in the UAE).
The time frame typically takes between 2 to 4 weeks depending on the applicant's category and the readiness of the application documents. If the applicant has a nomination or pre-approved channel, the time may be less than that.
Apply only through government approved, licensed consultancies. Request all official approvals, ask for a detailed breakdown of their fees, and avoid agents that claim to have "guaranteed approval" or "lifetime visa" as part of their fee.
With dubaisetupnow, we do it all - all eligibility checks, strategy decisions, official document preparation, submissions, and correspondent with government agencies. W are 100% transparent and compliant, and we provide last-minute approval support without false promises.
Ready to Apply for the Real UAE Golden Visa?
Secure Long-Term Residency with Verified UAE Government Programs
If you’re an entrepreneur, investor, skilled professional, or talent looking to live and grow in the UAE, the Golden Visa offers unmatched long-term security and business freedom. Whether you’re exploring Dubai’s booming property market, planning to expand your company, or simply seeking stability for your family—now is the right time to make the move.
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