UAE Opens Golden Visa Doors for Professionals from India and Bangladesh
Early indications suggest that the program is off to a strong start, with over 5,000 applications expected in the first 90 days.
News & Niche
In a major shift aimed at attracting top talent over capital investment, the United Arab Emirates has introduced a new nomination-based Golden Visa program, now available for nationals of India and Bangladesh. Announced on July 7, 2025, this pilot initiative marks a departure from the traditional requirement of investing in property or establishing a business. Instead, eligible individuals can obtain long-term residency by paying a one-time fee of AED 100,000 (approximately USD 27,000), making the process more accessible for skilled professionals.
This new visa model prioritizes individuals who contribute to the UAE’s cultural, scientific, economic, or humanitarian sectors. The list of eligible categories includes healthcare workers, educators, engineers, digital content creators, artists, researchers, maritime professionals, and even those involved in e-sports. Unlike older visa routes tied to real estate or trade licenses, this visa is designed to reward personal merit and proven expertise.
One of the standout features of the Golden Visa is its flexibility. Holders of the visa do not require a local sponsor and are allowed to stay outside the UAE for over six months without losing their residency status. The visa is issued for a period of 5 or 10 years and is renewable, provided that the holder continues to meet eligibility requirements. This provides a strong foundation for long-term settlement, whether for career advancement, business development, or personal stability.
Applicants can also sponsor their immediate family members, including spouse, children of any age, parents, and an unlimited number of domestic helpers. In case the primary visa holder passes away, their dependents are allowed to stay in the UAE until the visa period ends.
The application process is handled through the UAE’s official ICP SmartServices portal. Residents already in the UAE must select the “Golden Services” tab, choose “Nomination Request (Inside UAE),” and fill in their personal details and profession. Supporting documents must be uploaded and reviewed before payment is made. The total processing fee is around AED 150, broken down into e-services, ICP, and smart services charges. If an application is missing information and remains incomplete for over 30 days, or is rejected three times, it may be automatically canceled.
Early indications suggest that the program is off to a strong start, with over 5,000 applications expected in the first 90 days. Experts predict this will boost demand for mid-tier housing and rentals in cities like Dubai, as more professionals relocate. Meanwhile, the UAE government is likely to extend the nomination model to other CEPA (Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement) countries, including China.
In summary, the UAE’s nomination-based Golden Visa represents a bold and inclusive step toward talent-driven migration. It removes traditional financial barriers and focuses instead on skill, merit, and potential contribution. For thousands of professionals from India, Bangladesh, and possibly beyond, this initiative is more than a visa—it’s a gateway to opportunity, family stability, and long-term prosperity in one of the world’s most dynamic nations.