Debunking Top 3 UAE Golden Visa Rumours: What Residents Need to Know

UAE authorities have issued strong clarifications against several widespread, misleading claims regarding the country’s prestigious Golden Visa programme. The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) has emphasized that all Golden Visa applications must be submitted through official UAE government channels and that rumours suggesting lifetime residency or crypto-based eligibility are false.

Here’s a breakdown of the top three myths and the facts behind them:

Myth 1: Lifetime Golden Visa Offered to Certain Nationalities for a One-Time Fee of Dh100,000

Claim: Certain professionals—including nurses, educators, researchers, and content creators—can acquire a lifetime residency visa in exchange for a one-time payment without needing to invest in property or businesses.

Fact:
False. The ICP has categorically denied the existence of any “lifetime Golden Visa” scheme. It clarified that no third-party agency, local or foreign, is authorised to handle Golden Visa applications. Residents are strongly advised not to pay fees or share personal information with unverified service providers making such offers.

Myth 2: Cryptocurrency Investment (e.g., Toncoin) Qualifies for a UAE Golden Visa

Claim: Holding or staking cryptocurrencies like Toncoin can qualify individuals for a 10-year UAE Golden Visa, as claimed recently by Max Crown, CEO of the Ton Foundation.

Fact:
False. UAE regulatory bodies, including the Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA) and the Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (Vara), have officially denied any link between cryptocurrency holdings and Golden Visa eligibility. The UAE does not accept crypto assets as a basis for long-term visa applications.

Myth 3: Salary Requirement Changed to Basic Salary Only for Skilled Professionals

Claim: Applicants under the skilled professional category now only need a basic salary of Dh30,000, rather than a total monthly salary.

Fact:
False. There have been no changes to the salary requirements. For skilled professionals, a total salary of Dh30,000 per month is required. Those employed by mainland companies must present an employment contract, while free zone employees need a salary certificate from the respective free zone authority.

Authorities Urge Caution

UAE residents and prospective applicants are advised to rely solely on government portals and verified advisory services for information related to visa programs. The government continues to act against fraudulent services that seek to exploit the popularity of the Golden Visa programme.

The Golden Visa, introduced to attract global talent and investment, remains one of the most sought-after residency permits in the region. It is typically issued for 5 or 10 years and is subject to strict eligibility criteria based on professional achievement, investment, and innovation.