UAE refutes rumours on lifetime Golden Visas for select nationalities

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has dismissed rumours circulating in local and international media regarding the granting of lifetime Golden Visas to certain nationalities.

Earlier, several media outlets ran news reports claiming that lifetime Golden Visas could be obtained for certain nationalities through a simplified process.

According to the Emirates News Agency (WAM), the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) clarified that these claims were not accurate, emphasising that the categories, conditions, and regulations for the Golden Visa are clearly outlined in accordance with the UAE’s official laws and ministerial decisions.

The ICP urged individuals seeking Golden Visas to refer only to official sources, such as the authority’s website or smart application, for accurate information. It reiterated that all applications for Golden Visas must go through authorised government channels within the UAE and that no external consultancy entity is recognised as an official party in the application process.

The clarification came after a consultancy office in another country suggested that lifetime Golden Visas could be obtained via commercial entities outside the UAE under simplified conditions.

Read: Here's the most popular way to get Dubai's Golden Visa

The ICP firmly rejected these claims, asserting that they had no legal basis and had not been coordinated with the relevant UAE authorities.

In response to these misleading reports, the ICP warned that legal action would be taken against those attempting to exploit individuals by promoting false information and charging fees for non-existent services.

The Authority also cautioned against paying any fees or submitting personal documents to unauthorised parties claiming to provide Golden Visa services.

The UAE stressed its commitment to providing a transparent and secure environment for applicants, reminding the public to always verify information through official channels, such as the ICP’s website or its 24/7 call centre at 600522222.

What is the UAE's Golden Visa?

The UAE's Golden Visa is a long-term residence visa designed to allow foreign talents to live, work, or study in the UAE while enjoying several exclusive benefits.

This visa provides an entry permit for six months, allowing multiple entries to proceed with residence issuance. Once issued, the Golden Visa is renewable and is valid for either five or ten years.

One of the key advantages of the Golden Visa is that holders do not require a sponsor, making the process more flexible for residents.

Additionally, Golden Visa holders are permitted to stay outside the UAE for longer than the usual six-month period without invalidating their visa. The visa also offers the ability to sponsor family members, including spouses and children, regardless of their ages.