What Is Rs 23 Lakh UAE Visa And Why Is It Trending
The United Arab Emirates (UAE), the West Asian innovative, luxurious, desert-rooted, futuristic and cosmopolitan country, has sparked a frenzy in India with the launch of a new nomination – based Golden Visa scheme, priced at approximately Rs 23 lakh (AED 100,000), offering eligible Indian nationals lifetime residency without the need for substantial property or business investments.
This marks a significant departure from the traditional Golden Visa model, which required a minimum investment of AED 2 million (around Rs 4.66 crore) in real estate or commerce. The announcement, according to reports, made on a pilot basis for India and Bangladesh, has ignited widespread excitement, debate, and a flurry of memes across Indian social media, with many hailing it as a game-changer for professionals and entrepreneurs seeking global opportunities.
The new scheme, reports said, is facilitated by the Rayad Group in partnership with VFS and One Vasco centres, allows applicants to secure permanent residency by paying a one time fee, subject to a rigorous vetting process. Unlike the investment based visa, which lapses if the property is sold, this nomination based visa offers lifelong residency. Eligibility is determined by an applicant’s professional background, societal contributions, or potential to enhance UAE sectors such as culture, finance, trade, science, startups, or professional services. The vetting includes anti-money laundering checks, criminal record scrutiny, and even social media audits to assess an applicant’s alignment with UAE’s economic and cultural goals.
The UAE government retains final approval, ensuring only those who can add value to the nation qualify.
This initiative, is planned according to the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) signed between India and the UAE in 2022, and also reflects the deepening economic ties and the UAE’s ambition to attract global talent.
Over 5,000 Indian applicants are expected to apply within the first three months, drawn by the promise of a modern, tax-free environment and a high quality of life in the Gulf nation.
The Golden Visa grants recipients the freedom to live, work, study, or conduct business across the Emirates without a local sponsor, and they can also sponsor family members and domestic staff. Unlike traditional visas, holders are not required to reside in the UAE continuously, offering significant flexibility.
However, the scheme has sparked mixed reactions. While some view it as a golden opportunity for Indian professionals, scientists, artists, and entrepreneurs, others caution that the process is not as simple as paying the fee. Social media posts highlight the stringent nomination criteria, with one user noting, “It’s not just about Rs 23 lakh; it’s about proving your worth to the UAE.”
Critics argue the high cost of living in the UAE could pose challenges for those without substantial wealth, with one netizen remarking, “It’s great for millionaires, but ordinary people might struggle.”
The scheme has also prompted discussions about India’s ability to retain talent, with some users lamenting the lack of comparable incentives at home.
