UAE Authorities Deny Lifetime Golden Visa for Rs. 23.3 Lakh One-Time Payment

In a major clarification issued by UAE authorities, the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) has debunked recent reports suggesting that the UAE government was offering a lifetime Golden Visa to Indian citizens for a one-time payment of Rs. 23.3 lakh (AED 100,000).

These claims were originally circulated by the Dubai-based consultancy firm Rayad Group, which has now issued a public apology for disseminating "incorrect" information and withdrawn from offering private advisory services for Golden Visas.

What Happened?

Earlier, reports quoting the Rayad Group claimed that the UAE had launched a nomination-based Golden Visa program under which eligible Indian professionals, creators, and entrepreneurs could obtain lifelong residency without needing to invest in real estate or a business. A flat fee of AED 100,000 (approximately Rs..23.3 lakh) was cited as the cost for this visa, with no further requirements.

The initiative was said to be launched in collaboration with Rayad Group and processed via One Vasco and Rayad offices in India.

However, on July 10, 2025, the UAE government issued an official statement refuting these claims, stating:

“The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) has denied the accuracy of rumours… These claims have no legal basis and were made without coordination with the relevant authorities in the UAE.”

Rayad Group Issues Public Apology

Following the UAE government's denial, the Rayad Group released a statement acknowledging the miscommunication, saying:

“We apologise unreservedly for the public confusion caused by recent reports and commentary, and we take full responsibility for ensuring future communications are clear, accurate, and consistent with the UAE’s stringent regulatory frameworks.”

The firm admitted that the claims did not reflect the true scope of their role or the limitations of their authority regarding the UAE's immigration policies.

“No guaranteed visa, fixed-price programme, or lifetime UAE residency product currently exists,” the company confirmed.

They have since discontinued their Golden Visa private advisory services.

What You Need to Know Now

What Is the Golden Visa?

The UAE’s Golden Visa, launched in 2019, is a long-term residency visa valid for 5 or 10 years, renewable, and granted to entrepreneurs, investors, skilled professionals, researchers, and outstanding students. However, the conditions, categories, and fees are strictly defined by UAE law and can only be processed through official UAE government channels.

No Lifetime Visa, No One-Time Rs. 23.3 Lakh Payment

According to the ICP:

There is no provision for a "lifetime" Golden Visa.
There is no flat-fee visa package or third-party consultancy authorised to guarantee visa approval.
All applications must go through official government digital platforms inside the UAE.

Summary: What Has Changed?

Fake News: Lifetime UAE Golden Visa for AED 100,000

Real News: UAE Authorities Confirm No Such Visa Exists

Previously Claimed	Now Clarified by UAE Authorities
Nomination-based Golden Visa with Rs.23.3 lakh fee	No such flat-fee or lifetime visa option exists
Rayad Group facilitated Golden Visa applications	Rayad Group had no legal authority to do so
Application could be done via consultancy in India	Only official UAE digital platforms handle applications
Lifetime UAE residency was promised	Golden Visa validity is 5 or 10 years, renewable

Need Help Navigating UAE Golden Visa Rules?

Filings.ae experts can guide you through the official Golden Visa application process based on the latest UAE government requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is there such a thing as a lifetime UAE Golden Visa for Rs. 23.3 lakh (AED 100,000)?

No. The UAE government has officially denied this claim. There is no lifetime Golden Visa and no one-time payment visa package like that.

2. Then what is the UAE Golden Visa?

The UAE Golden Visa is a long-term residency visa issued for 5 or 10 years. It is renewable and granted to:

Investors
Entrepreneurs
Skilled professionals
Scientists
Exceptional students

Talented individuals in arts, sports, etc.

3. Can I apply for a Golden Visa from India through a private consultancy?

No. The UAE government clearly states that all Golden Visa applications must be submitted only through official UAE channels, such as the ICP website or the UAEICP smart app. Private consultancies or agents in India are not authorized to process or guarantee Golden Visa approvals.

However, Filings.ae can assist you in applying through proper UAE government channels, ensuring your application is 100% compliant with the latest official rules and regulations.

Learn More or Get Help from Experts!

4. What did Rayad Group do wrong?

Rayad Group, a private company in Dubai, falsely advertised a "lifetime Golden Visa" for AED 100,000 (about Rs. 23.3 lakh). The UAE government called this fake news, and Rayad has since apologized and stopped offering visa advisory services.

5. How can I apply for a legitimate UAE Golden Visa?

You can:

Visit the official ICP website
Use the UAEICP Smart App
Contact UAE-based legal consultants who are officially registered (not third-party agents abroad)

6. Is the Golden Visa guaranteed if I have the money?

No. You must meet eligibility criteria based on your profession, income, investment, or achievements. Money alone does not guarantee a visa.

7. Can Filings.ae help with the Golden Visa process?

Yes. Filings.ae offers legal and compliant assistance for UAE visa and business services. We can guide you based on official government policies.

Disclaimer: This article has been updated to reflect verified information from UAE government sources as of July 10, 2025. Previous claims regarding a lifetime Golden Visa have been corrected.