Key Takeaways
• UAE launches a 10-year Golden Visa costing 2.33 million AED for Indian and Bangladeshi nationals in 2025.
• Visa holders receive a gold-colored Emirates ID and access special immigration counters for faster processing.
• No sponsor needed; visa allows family sponsorship, multiple entries, and access to UAE services and residency.
A new Golden Visa program in the UAE 🇦🇪 is making headlines in 2025, offering a 10-year residency permit for a hefty price of 2.33 million Dirhams (about ₹5.2 crore). This initiative, first available to Indian 🇮🇳 and Bangladeshi 🇧🇩 nationals, stands out for its high cost, exclusive benefits, and a gold-colored Emirates ID that signals elite status. Special immigration counters have been set up to handle the surge in interest, and immigration advisors say demand is already strong. Here’s what you need to know about this new Golden Visa, how it works, and what it means for applicants and the wider community.
What Is the New UAE Golden Visa?
The UAE’s new Golden Visa is a long-term residency permit that lets people live, work, and study in the country for 10 years without needing a local sponsor. Unlike earlier versions, this program comes with a much higher entry cost—2.33 million AED—and is being rolled out first for Indian and Bangladeshi nationals. Holders of this visa receive a special gold-colored Emirates ID, setting them apart from other residents.
Key Features:
– 10-year residency in the UAE 🇦🇪
– Gold-colored Emirates ID for visa holders
– No local sponsor needed
– Ability to sponsor family members
– Multiple-entry privileges
– Special immigration counters for faster processing
This program is part of the UAE’s ongoing efforts to attract wealthy investors, skilled professionals, and top talent from around the world.
Why Is the UAE Offering This Golden Visa?
The UAE has long been a popular destination for expatriates, especially from India 🇮🇳 and Bangladesh 🇧🇩. By launching a premium Golden Visa, the UAE aims to:
– Attract ultra-high-net-worth individuals who can invest in the country’s economy
– Strengthen ties with large expatriate communities
– Boost the real estate and business sectors
– Enhance the UAE’s global image as a hub for talent and investment
According to analysis by VisaVerge.com, the UAE’s dual approach—offering both high-investment and nomination-based Golden Visas—broadens its appeal to different groups, from wealthy investors to skilled professionals.
How Does the New Golden Visa Work?
Cost and Eligibility
To qualify for the new Golden Visa, applicants must pay 2.33 million AED (about ₹5.2 crore). This is higher than the standard AED 2 million investment required for earlier Golden Visa categories. The program is currently open only to Indian and Bangladeshi nationals, reflecting the UAE’s focus on these communities.
Eligibility requirements include:
– Proof of payment of 2.33 million AED
– Valid passport from India 🇮🇳 or Bangladesh 🇧🇩
– Health insurance covering the UAE
– Clean criminal record
– Medical and biometric checks
Applicants do not need to invest in property or a business for this specific Golden Visa, as the main requirement is the direct payment.
Gold-Colored Emirates ID
A unique feature of this program is the gold-colored Emirates ID. This card serves as both an identity document and a symbol of the holder’s elite status. It is different from the standard Emirates ID, which is usually white or green. The gold color makes it easy for officials and service providers to recognize Golden Visa holders.
Special Immigration Counters
To handle the expected rush of applications, the UAE has set up dedicated immigration counters at major airports and immigration offices. These counters are reserved for Golden Visa applicants, making the process faster and more efficient. Immigration advisor Raymond notes that these special counters have helped speed up approvals and reduce waiting times.
Application Process
The application process for the new Golden Visa is designed to be straightforward but thorough. Here’s how it works:
- Prepare Documents: Gather your passport, proof of payment, health insurance, and any other required documents.
- Submit Application: Apply through the official UAE immigration portal or at a special immigration counter.
- Medical and Biometric Checks: Complete health checks and provide fingerprints.
- Approval: If approved, you’ll receive your gold-colored Emirates ID within about 30 days.
- Family Sponsorship: Once you have your visa, you can sponsor your spouse, children, and even parents.
For more details on the application process and required documents, visit the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) website.
How Does This Compare to Other Golden Visa Options?
The UAE has several Golden Visa pathways, each with its own requirements and benefits. Here’s how the new high-cost program compares:
Standard Golden Visa
- Investment: AED 2 million (in real estate or business)
- Residency: 10 years
- Application Fee: AED 2,800–4,800
- Eligibility: Investors, entrepreneurs, highly skilled professionals, special talents
Nomination-Based Golden Visa
- Fee: AED 100,000 (about ₹23.3 lakh)
- Residency: Lifetime (for Indians)
- Eligibility: Based on professional merit, societal contributions, or value to the UAE
- No investment required
New High-Cost Golden Visa (2025)
- Payment: AED 2.33 million (about ₹5.2 crore)
- Residency: 10 years
- Eligibility: Initially for Indian and Bangladeshi nationals
- Gold-colored Emirates ID
- Special immigration counters for fast processing
This new model is aimed at those who want a quick, prestigious route to long-term residency and are willing to pay a premium for it.
Why Are Indians and Bangladeshis the First to Benefit?
Indians and Bangladeshis make up two of the largest expatriate groups in the UAE. By targeting these communities first, the UAE is:
– Recognizing their economic and cultural contributions
– Responding to strong demand for long-term residency
– Encouraging further investment and business activity
Immigration advisor Raymond says public interest is especially high among wealthy professionals and business owners from these countries, who see the Golden Visa as a way to secure their future in the UAE.
What Are the Benefits of the Golden Visa?
Holders of the new Golden Visa enjoy several important benefits:
- Long-term security: Live, work, and study in the UAE for 10 years without worrying about visa renewals.
- No local sponsor needed: You don’t need a UAE employer or sponsor to stay in the country.
- Family sponsorship: Bring your spouse, children, and even parents to live with you.
- Multiple-entry privileges: Travel in and out of the UAE as often as you like.
- Access to services: Use UAE healthcare, education, and banking services.
- Gold-colored Emirates ID: Enjoy special recognition and faster service at government offices and airports.
- Family protection: Family members can stay in the UAE even if the main visa holder passes away.
These benefits make the Golden Visa especially attractive to those looking for stability, flexibility, and a high quality of life in the UAE.
What Are the Risks and Considerations?
While the Golden Visa offers many advantages, there are also important things to consider:
- High cost: The 2.33 million AED price tag is a major financial commitment.
- Limited eligibility: Currently, only Indian and Bangladeshi nationals can apply for this specific program.
- No investment return: Unlike property or business investment visas, this program is based on a direct payment, not an asset that could appreciate in value.
- Policy changes: Immigration rules can change, so it’s important to stay updated on any new requirements or adjustments.
Applicants should carefully weigh these factors and consult with trusted immigration advisors before making a decision.
How Does the Golden Visa Affect the UAE Economy and Society?
The Golden Visa program is part of the UAE’s broader strategy to attract talent and investment. By offering long-term residency to wealthy individuals and skilled professionals, the UAE hopes to:
– Boost real estate and business sectors
– Encourage innovation and entrepreneurship
– Increase spending and economic activity
– Enhance the country’s reputation as a global hub
Officials believe that attracting high-net-worth individuals will have a positive ripple effect, creating jobs and supporting local businesses. At the same time, the nomination-based Golden Visa allows the UAE to bring in skilled people who may not have large amounts of money but can contribute to society in other ways.
What Do Experts and Stakeholders Say?
Immigration experts and government officials are optimistic about the new Golden Visa’s potential. Raymond, an immigration advisor, points out that the program has already sparked strong interest, especially among business owners and professionals from India and Bangladesh.
Officials say the high-cost Golden Visa is designed to attract the world’s best and brightest, while the nomination-based model ensures that talented individuals who may not be wealthy still have a path to residency.
Some analysts believe that offering both high-investment and merit-based visas is a smart move, as it allows the UAE to appeal to a wide range of people and meet different economic and social needs.
What’s Next for the Golden Visa Program?
The UAE government is expected to keep refining the Golden Visa program in the coming years. Possible changes include:
– Expanding eligibility to more nationalities
– Adjusting investment thresholds to balance exclusivity and inclusivity
– Introducing more digital tools to make the application process easier
– Monitoring the economic and social impact of the program
As the program evolves, applicants should stay informed by checking official government sources and consulting with immigration professionals.
How to Apply and Where to Get More Information
If you’re interested in applying for the new Golden Visa, here’s what you should do:
- Check eligibility: Make sure you meet the nationality and payment requirements.
- Gather documents: Prepare your passport, proof of payment, health insurance, and any other required paperwork.
- Visit a special immigration counter: Go to a dedicated counter at a major UAE airport or immigration office for faster service.
- Submit your application: You can also apply online through the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) website.
- Wait for approval: Most applicants receive a decision and their gold-colored Emirates ID within about 30 days.
For official forms and up-to-date information, always use the government’s official website. If you need help, consider speaking with a licensed immigration advisor.
Practical Tips for Applicants
- Plan your finances: Make sure you have the full 2.33 million AED ready before applying.
- Keep your documents organized: Missing paperwork can delay your application.
- Stay updated: Immigration rules can change, so check the official ICP website regularly.
- Consult professionals: If you’re unsure about any part of the process, seek advice from a trusted immigration expert.
Conclusion
The UAE’s new Golden Visa program for 2025 offers a unique opportunity for Indian and Bangladeshi nationals to secure long-term residency in one of the world’s most dynamic countries. With its high price tag, gold-colored Emirates ID, and special processing counters, this visa is designed for those seeking prestige, security, and convenience. At the same time, the UAE continues to offer other Golden Visa options, including a more affordable nomination-based route for skilled professionals.
As reported by VisaVerge.com, public interest in the Golden Visa is rising fast, and the UAE is likely to keep refining its immigration policies to attract the best talent and investment from around the world. If you’re considering applying, make sure to review the requirements carefully, plan your finances, and use official government resources for the most accurate information.
For more details and to start your application, visit the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) website. This is the best place to find official forms, updated rules, and contact information for immigration offices across the UAE.
By understanding the process and preparing carefully, you can take advantage of the opportunities offered by the UAE’s Golden Visa and build a secure future for yourself and your family in the Emirates.
Learn Today
Golden Visa → A long-term residency permit allowing extended stay and work rights without a local sponsor in the UAE.
Emirates ID → An official identity card issued to residents, with gold color denoting elite Golden Visa holders.
Residency Permit → An official authorization allowing foreign nationals to live legally in the UAE for a specified duration.
Nomination-Based Visa → A Golden Visa granted based on professional merit or contributions rather than financial investment.
Special Immigration Counters → Dedicated service desks to expedite visa application processing for Golden Visa applicants.
This Article in a Nutshell
The UAE’s new 2025 Golden Visa offers Indian and Bangladeshi nationals a 10-year residency for 2.33 million AED, featuring a gold Emirates ID and expedited processing, symbolizing elite status while enhancing investment and talent attraction with family sponsorship and multiple-entry privileges.
— By VisaVerge.com
