UAE Government Denies Reports of Lifetime Golden Visa as Fake News

Dubai – The UAE’s Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICP) has dismissed as false and misleading the reports circulating in local and international media about the issuance of a “lifetime” Golden Visa to select nationalities.

In an official statement, the ICP clarified:
"All UAE Golden Visa applications are processed solely through official government channels within the country. No internal or external consultancy or advisory body is recognised as an authorised entity in the application process."

It further emphasized that the categories, conditions, and criteria for Golden Visa eligibility are clearly defined under UAE laws and ministerial decisions. Interested individuals should refer only to the official ICP website or smart application for accurate and updated information.

The clarification came in response to press releases from a foreign consulting office claiming that individuals could apply for a “lifetime UAE Golden Visa.” Several Indian and UAE-based media outlets published this claim on July 7, without verification or consultation with UAE authorities.

ICP reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining a secure and transparent environment for customers, stating:
"We are enhancing our services through official digital platforms only and do not endorse or authorise third-party involvement in visa processing."

The agency also warned that legal action would be taken against entities spreading these rumours and attempting to exploit people’s hopes by fraudulently offering UAE residency in exchange for money.

"We advise the public not to fall for such false claims or respond to individuals seeking to profit by misleading those who dream of a better life in the UAE," the statement said.

For accurate information, the ICP urged the public to rely on official sources, including the ICP website or by calling the helpline at 600522222.

IANS also reported that UAE authorities have reiterated that the Golden Visa programme is strictly government-regulated. All nominations, even those submitted through authorised agents, are subject to government review, with final approval resting solely with UAE officials.

Golden Visas may be granted under several conditions, including—but not limited to—investing AED 2 million in real estate, owning a business, or making exceptional contributions in fields such as science, medicine, arts, culture, media, or sports.

The clarification comes amid concerns that some real estate companies were wrongly portraying Golden Visas as easily obtainable with property purchases, misleading Indian nationals into believing they could secure long-term residency through a simple one-time payment.

With inputs from IANS