UAE launches ₹23 lakh lifetime visa, opens doors to Indian investors and professionals

The UAE has unveiled a revamped Golden Visa program, now granting 10-year renewable residency (effectively lifetime status) for select professionals and investors, including Indian nationals.

The revised framework offers self-sponsored visas without requiring a local sponsor, with a fee of approximately ₹23 lakh (AED 132,000).

Originally a scheme for high-net-worth individuals and investors, the Golden Visa was first introduced in 2019 and has since evolved.

India remains among the top recipient countries, with over 100,000 Indian nationals holding Golden Visas—driven by rising interest in real estate, tech entrepreneurship, nursing, digital content creation, and education .

Who can apply?
-Investor category: Requires a minimum investment of AED 2 million (approximately ₹4.8 crore) in property or capital, along with AED 250,000 in tax contribution.

-Entrepreneurs and innovators: Minimum AED 500,000 business investment, with incubator support

-Skilled professionals: Doctors, engineers, PhD researchers, and more, provided they have a valid UAE employment contract with a salary of AED 30,000+.

-Top students and creatives: Outstanding academic achievers and content creators (YouTubers, gamers, podcasters), alongside new additions like e‑sports professionals and yacht industry experts.

Key benefits
-Sponsor-free: No need for an employer sponsor; holders can live, work, study, and sponsor family including spouse, children, and domestic help

-Extended travel flexibility: Holders can stay outside the UAE for over six months without losing residency 

-Tax and lifestyle perks: No personal income or capital gains tax, access to high standards of living, healthcare, and education factors driving high interest from wealthy Indians