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No 'lifetime' Golden Visa: Why applicants must use official channels, not fall for fake news
The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICP) debunked these claims and said that applications are processed in country
In the wake of rumours claiming that the UAE is granting lifetime Golden Visas to specific nationalities, visa consultant experts and authorised service centres in Dubai are urging residents to apply only through official government channels and avoid falling for misleading claims.
Khaleej Times did not carry the news and immediately sought an official statement from ICP on Monday, July 7.
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The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICP) debunked these claims and said that applications are processed exclusively via authorised platforms within the country.
According to experts, several consultancies, some based outside the UAE, are reportedly charging up to Dh40,000 for Golden Visa services, misleading eligible candidates and exploiting those unfamiliar with the official process.
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“On the day we read the news, we knew this was fake. There is no such thing as a 'lifetime Golden Visa',” said Masiuddin Mohammed, from the Quality Government Service Centre (Amer, Tasheel, Tawjeeh) in Dubai Investment Park 1.
“Legitimate sources include Amer centres in Dubai and the ICP website in other Emirates. These centres are monitored, and if we provide incorrect information, we are held accountable, sometimes with penalties.”
He added that some companies charge ten times more than the actual visa cost, which is around Dh3,000, excluding medical and Emirates ID fees.
“The UAE government is strict about who qualifies for the Golden Visa, it’s for deserving candidates. But people are being misled by online content creators based abroad who spread incorrect information just to gain followers,” he said.
Experts have also noted that some agencies claim to have extensive knowledge on the Golden Visa, but lack a lot of information on the subject. "The long-term [visa] is in so much demand that scammers are taking advantage of it."
Who is eligible?
According to Firosekhan, operations manager at Dubai-based Arabian Business Centre, Golden Visa applicants must first receive a nomination from either the Dubai Economy and Tourism department (DET) or ICP.
“In Dubai, applicants can be outside the UAE during the nomination, but must enter the country and complete the process which can be done in three days of approval,” said Firosekhan adding that other Emirates, applicants must already be in the UAE at the time of nomination and and even during application.
“Eligible categories include skilled professionals earning a basic salary of Dh30,000 or more, IT experts and individuals with specialised talent, investors with a Dh2 million fixed deposit and property buyers with real estate worth at least Dh2 million to name a few,” said Firosekhan.
He further mentioned that many people approach us after being quoted outrageous amounts by third-party agents. “We always tell them, check only with official channels — Amer centres, GDRFA, DET, or ICP.”
Experts have said that the actual cost for a Golden Visa through government portals is around Dh3,000, plus the cost of medical examination and Emirates ID.
The ICP has confirmed it is monitoring such false claims and is prepared to take legal action against any entities spreading misinformation or attempting to financially exploit applicants.
“The UAE is attractive for its safety, stability, and business-friendly policies. That’s why the Golden Visa is always in demand globally,” said Masiuddin. “But people must understand, if you want long-term residency, go only through the official route.”
SM Ayaz Zakir
SM Ayaz Zakir is a Senior Correspondent with a flair for extraordinary stories. His playground? Every corner of the UAE. He often ventures into remote corners of the country to capture compelling news and human interest stories.
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