ABU DHABI – The United Arab Emirates has officially denied reports claiming that “lifetime” Golden Visas are being offered to nationals of specific countries, including India and Bangladesh. The clarification came from the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP), which termed the circulating claims as baseless and misleading.
According to the ICP, all Golden Visa-related procedures are governed under federal laws and ministerial resolutions. The authority stressed that the eligibility criteria remain unchanged and are clearly outlined through official digital channels, including the ICP website and mobile application.
Misleading Campaign by Private Entities
The response follows false claims circulated by private consultancies suggesting a pilot programme was in place offering lifetime visas in exchange for a fee of AED 100,000, without requiring real estate investment or other standard criteria. The ICP warned of legal action against parties involved in spreading disinformation or attempting to exploit applicants.
In addition to denying these claims, the authority clarified that the UAE has not introduced any nationality-based waiver or exclusive visa scheme. The Golden Visa remains a long-term residency programme available to investors, entrepreneurs, skilled professionals, scientists, researchers, outstanding students, and humanitarian workers, based strictly on qualifications and contribution to the country.
Cryptocurrency Claims Also Rejected
Authorities further refuted reports suggesting Golden Visas were being issued to cryptocurrency investors. The ICP, in coordination with the Securities and Commodities Authority and Dubai’s Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority, confirmed that no such provision exists under the current Golden Visa framework.
Public Advisory
The government urged residents and international applicants to avoid reliance on unauthorized intermediaries and to verify all visa-related information through official channels only. Applications must be submitted directly via approved platforms, and any third-party offering guaranteed visa services should be treated with caution.
Multiple regional and international publications, including The National, Gulf News, Gulf Business, and Free Press Journal, have also reported on the UAE’s denial and the broader implications of visa misinformation.
This story has been reported by PakTribune. All rights reserved.
