UAE offers nomination-based Golden Visa to Indian professionals, nurses, educators, digital creators | Read in detail
PTC Web Desk: In a major overhaul of its residency programme, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has introduced a nomination-based Golden Visa, making long-term residency more accessible to skilled professionals, educators, digital content creators, and healthcare workers. The new scheme significantly eases the pathway to permanent residency in the Gulf nation—particularly for Indian nationals, who represent one of the largest expat communities in the UAE.
The Golden Visa, originally launched in 2019, was primarily aimed at high-net-worth individuals through property or business investments. The earlier route required a minimum investment of AED 2 million in real estate or large-scale business ventures to secure a 10-year residency. Now, the scope has widened considerably.
Who can apply?
The expanded list of eligible applicants includes:
Nurses with over 15 years of experience
Teachers, principals, and university faculty
Frontline workers and scientists
YouTubers, podcasters, and digital creators
Accredited e-sports professionals aged 25
Luxury yacht owners and maritime executives
Executives and individuals in fields like finance, culture, and technology
The key feature of the new offering is that it operates on a nomination model, with a one-time fee of AED 1,00,000 (approximately Rs 23.3 lakh INR). This visa is not tied to property or job contracts and remains valid for life, even if the individual sells property or changes professions.
Pilot launch in India and Bangladesh
India and Bangladesh have been selected for the first phase of testing this nomination-based visa system. The Rayad Group, a UAE-based consultancy, has been appointed to lead this initiative in both countries. Applications can be submitted through RayadGroup’s online portal, One Vasco visa centres, or their official offices in India and Bangladesh.
According to Rayad Kamal Ayub, Managing Director of Rayad Group, “This is a golden opportunity for Indians who have always dreamed of working or living in the UAE. Unlike property-based visas, the nomination-based visa stays valid for life.”
Strict screening and nomination process
RayadGroup will carry out a rigorous background check on each applicant before forwarding the nomination to the UAE government. The screening includes: Anti-money laundering and criminal record checks; social media and public influence analysis; assessment of applicant’s potential contribution to the UAE in sectors like culture, science, education, business, or digital innovation.
Following the vetting, the final decision lies with UAE authorities, who will approve or reject the application based on national interest and strategic value.
Perks of the nomination-based Golden Visa
Once granted, the Golden Visa allows: Lifelong residency without the need to invest in property, family sponsorship, including spouse and children, freedom to hire domestic help and drivers, eligibility to run businesses or work across professions in the UAE. Unlike traditional property-based visas that become void upon selling real estate, the nomination-based visa remains permanent, offering unmatched stability and flexibility.
- With inputs from agencies
