The UAE has redefined the pathway to long-term residency for skilled and high-achieving individuals across the globe. In a significant shift, Indians can now apply for the prestigious UAE Golden Visa through a nomination-based route, bypassing the traditional need to invest crores in property or business. This new model, launched on a pilot basis, offers Indian professionals, entrepreneurs, students, and creatives a chance to secure a 10-year renewable visa based on merit, skill, and potential contributions to the UAE economy.

This initiative reflects the UAE’s commitment to attracting global talent and fostering innovation by focusing on individual impact and professional excellence.

Why Is the Golden Visa Popular Among Indians?

Indians constitute a large part of the UAE’s workforce and business ecosystem. The Golden Visa offers Indian citizens an opportunity to settle in the UAE with long-term rights, including family sponsorship, business freedom, and access to local services. Previously restricted to property investors and business moguls, the new nomination model now provides opportunities for talented individuals from a wide range of professions.

Understanding the Nomination Route

What is the Nomination Route?

The nomination route allows eligible individuals to apply for a UAE Golden Visa if they are nominated by the government or licensed entities. Instead of meeting a fixed investment threshold, applicants are assessed on their professional credentials, social impact, achievements, and potential contribution to the UAE economy.

This model aims to diversify the talent pool in the UAE by welcoming professionals across a broader spectrum of expertise, not just investors.

Who Can Nominate You?

• Government bodies (local and federal)

• Universities and academic institutions

• Licensed talent and media agencies

• UAE-based corporations or industry authorities

Eligibility Criteria for Indian Applicants

Categories Eligible for Nomination

The UAE government expanded its Golden Visa categories in May 2025. Indian applicants are now eligible for nomination under the following categories:

• Investors: Active investors with a significant track record

• Entrepreneurs: Startup founders, tech leaders, or innovators

• Scientists & Researchers: Particularly in health, agriculture, and sustainability

• Skilled Professionals: Doctors, engineers, teachers, executives.

• Outstanding Students & Graduates: Recognised for academic excellence

• Digital Creators & Media Professionals: YouTubers, podcasters, e-sports professionals

• Specialised Occupations: Nurses with 15+ years of experience, maritime executives

Documentation Required

Applicants typically need to provide:

• Valid passport

• Recent passport-sized photo

• Resume or professional bio

• A recommendation letter from a nominating entity

• Police clearance certificate (India and UAE)

• Proof of achievements (certificates, awards, and portfolios)

• Social media/public presence (if applicable)

Depending on the applicant's field and the authority processing the nomination, they may request additional documents.

Step-by-Step Process to Apply

Step 1: Identify Your Eligibility

Review if your profession, achievements, or public influence match one of the eligible categories. Evaluate whether your contributions align with the UAE’s national priorities.

Step 2: Secure a Nomination

Approach relevant UAE-based entities or talent sponsors. Universities and consulting firms may also assist in obtaining nominations. Some institutions have specific guidelines and internal evaluation procedures.

Step 3: Submit Your Application

Once nominated, apply through the official UAE portals by uploading documents and paying the initial processing fees. Ensure that every document is translated and attested where necessary.

Step 4: Wait for Approval

Your application will undergo a thorough background check, including financial and criminal screening. This phase may also involve interviews or additional document submissions.

Step 5: Finalise Visa Issuance

If approved, pay the Golden Visa issuance fee, complete a medical check-up, and apply for an Emirates ID. This final stage confirms your long-term residency rights.

Authorities and Nomination Portals

Key Authorities Involved:

• Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP)

• Dubai Culture (for creative professionals)

• Ministry of Education (for students and teachers)

• Free zones and municipalities

Nomination Portals:

• ICP's official website

• DubaiNow app

• Industry-specific nomination platforms

These platforms streamline the application and approval process. Applicants should regularly check for updates and new eligibility categories.

University and Government Endorsements

Select UAE universities and agencies can nominate top graduates, researchers, and academics. Collaboration with Indian institutions may also ease this process. Applicants with recent accolades or academic achievements should approach their alma maters or employers.

Costs Involved in the Process

• Nomination Charges: These vary depending on the nominating entity but can be minimal to none.

• Golden Visa Fees: AED 100,000 (approx. ₹23.3 lakh), as reported in the pilot phase

• Medical Test & Emirates ID: AED 1,000–2,000

Other incidental costs, such as translation, document attestation, and travel to the UAE, may also apply.

Timelines and Processing Duration

How Long Does It Take?

• Nomination: 1–3 weeks (varies)

• Application Review: 4–6 weeks

• Visa Issuance: 1–2 weeks after approval

Fast-Track Options

Some free zones and agencies offer fast-track application processing for high-profile applicants. These services often come with additional fees but significantly reduce waiting periods.

Common Challenges Faced by Indian Applicants

• Difficulty in securing a valid nomination

• Language barriers or incomplete document translation

• Confusion around updated guidelines

• Technical errors on application portals

Applicants are encouraged to double-check each requirement and seek professional assistance to avoid rejection.

Tips to Improve Your Chances

• Strengthen Your Portfolio: Include notable achievements, international recognition, or large-scale impact.

• Get Endorsements: From recognised UAE-based institutions or government affiliates

• Work with Professionals: Hire UAE-based Golden Visa consultants to avoid delays and ensure accuracy.

• Maintain Transparency: Disclose accurate professional, legal, and financial background to avoid complications.

Benefits of UAE Golden Visa for Indians

• 10-Year Residency: Renewable without the need for a local sponsor

• Business Freedom: Start or operate a business without partnership restrictions

• Family Sponsorship: You can sponsor your spouse, children, and domestic help.

• Multiple Entry: Travel in and out of the UAE with minimal restrictions

• Tax Benefits: No personal income tax in the UAE

• Long-Term Planning: Enables educational continuity for children and better access to the UAE’s healthcare system

Differences Between Nomination Route & Other Routes

Nomination Route:

• No investment required

• Merit-based selection

• Broader eligibility

• Targeted at professionals and creatives with proven impact

Investment Route:

• AED 2 million property investment required

• Limited to investors and high-net-worth individuals

• Considerable upfront capital

Employer-Sponsored Route:

• Requires active employment

• Visa validity is tied to the employer's

• Limited flexibility in switching jobs or starting a business

Post-Visa Responsibilities

• Medical Check-up: Mandatory for visa stamping

• Emirates ID Application: Required for banking, rentals, and utilities

• Renewal Monitoring: Track visa validity and renewal dates to avoid overstays

• Update Personal Information: Ensure contact details and job status are up to date with the authorities.

Things to Avoid During Application

• Submitting incomplete or incorrect documents

• Applying without a confirmed nomination

• Using unverified agents or middlemen

• Ignoring the small print in the eligibility rules

• Delaying your application post-nomination may cause the expiration of the nomination.

Conclusion

The UAE Golden Visa via the nomination route represents a breakthrough opportunity for Indian professionals, creators, and business minds. It eliminates the barrier of property or large capital investments and instead focuses on individual merit, influence, and economic value.

As one of the first pilot countries, Indian applicants are in a prime position to benefit from this streamlined and forward-thinking policy. By choosing the right approach and being well-prepared, applicants can take full advantage of this new gateway to long-term success in the Emirates.

Simplify Your Golden Visa Journey with Bizex LLC

At Bizex LLC, we specialise in helping Indian applicants secure their UAE Golden Visas through the nomination route. From profile assessment and documentation to securing nominations and navigating official portals, our experts ensure a smooth and compliant process.

Whether you are a tech innovator, content creator, educator, or investor, Bizex can help you unlock long-term opportunities in the UAE.

Book your free consultation today and begin your journey toward a 10-year residency in the Emirates!