No ‘Lifetime Golden Visa’ Scheme Exists, Confirms UAE Authorities Amid Viral Misinformation
No ‘Lifetime Golden Visa’ Scheme Exists, Confirms UAE Authorities Amid Viral Misinformation
Dubai / New Delhi – July 10, 2025 by www.myblacktree.com:
In response to growing confusion and widespread misinformation, the UAE’s Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) has issued a firm clarification: no ‘lifetime’ Golden Visa scheme exists for a fee of Dh100,000, as recently claimed by various unofficial sources.
The clarification comes after multiple websites, influencers, and unverified press releases began circulating online, suggesting that individuals—particularly Indian nationals—could obtain a lifetime UAE Golden Visa without fulfilling standard eligibility criteria such as investment, property ownership, or professional distinction.
Authorities Refute Viral Claims
The ICP, the sole authority overseeing identity and residency services in the UAE, has denied the existence of any permanent or lifetime Golden Visa category. Officials stressed that all legitimate Golden Visa applications must be submitted through official UAE government channels, and that no consulting agency or private firm, either inside or outside the UAE, is authorized to process these visas independently.
“There is no provision for a lifetime Golden Visa. The Golden Visa is a 10-year renewable residency program. Any claims suggesting otherwise are false,” an ICP spokesperson confirmed.
Origin of the Fake News
The false information appears to have originated from unverified reports circulated by certain Indian and UAE-based media outlets, which published a press release stating that Indians could apply for a lifetime UAE Golden Visa for Dh100,000 without the need for investment or business activity.
Despite the lack of any official UAE government statement or source attribution, the claim quickly spread on social media platforms, drawing significant attention from the Indian expatriate and business communities in the Gulf.
What the Golden Visa Really Offers
The UAE Golden Visa program, launched in 2019, offers 10-year renewable residency to selected categories, including:
-
Investors
-
Entrepreneurs
-
Highly skilled professionals (doctors, engineers, scientists)
-
Creative talents (artists, authors, performers)
-
Outstanding students and graduates
Applications are processed via official portals such as the ICP, the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in Dubai, and approved typing centers such as Amer Centres.
There is currently no lifetime residency visa program under any UAE immigration law.
Public Advised to Rely on Official Channels
Authorities have urged residents and expatriates to be vigilant and rely only on trusted sources, including:
-
UAE Government portals:
-
Verified national media outlets:
-
Khaleej Times
-
The National
-
Gulf News
-
Legal experts caution that spreading false information or engaging in unauthorized visa applications can lead to legal penalties under UAE law, including fines or visa bans.
Where and How to Apply for a Genuine Golden Visa
-
In Dubai: Use the GDRFA Smart App, official GDRFA website, or visit any Amer Centre.
-
In Other Emirates: Apply via the ICP Smart Services portal or visit ICA-approved typing centres.
Before applying, individuals can check their eligibility online through the official ICP portal:
🔗 Check Golden Visa Eligibility Here
Final Word
There is no official “lifetime Golden Visa” for a fixed fee. The UAE Golden Visa remains a 10-year, renewable residency pathway — not a permanent or lifetime permit. Any future changes to visa policy will be announced exclusively through official UAE government sources.
Residents are encouraged to stay informed, verify facts, and avoid acting on misleading claims circulating on unofficial platforms.
For further clarification or updates, follow announcements from the ICP, GDRFA, and other government agencies.by www.mublacktree.com
