UAE Confirms AED 100,000 Golden Visa for Indians is Fake: Public Warned to Avoid Scam
Indian nationals have been urged by the UAE government to be cautious and avoid falling victim to a fraudulent Golden Visa scheme that falsely claims to offer lifelong residency for just AED 100,000 (₹23.3 lakh). The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) officially dismissed the viral press release being circulated online, calling it misleading and fake.
False Claims of Nomination-Based Golden Visa Exposed
The fabricated announcement originated from a consultancy firm named Rayad Group, which claimed Indians and Bangladeshis could apply for a “nomination-based” Golden Visa through a pilot program. It also falsely claimed partnerships with visa processing firm VFS Global and suggested potential expansion to CEPA member countries such as China.
The most alarming part of the claim was the promise of permanent UAE residency and even citizenship in exchange for a one-time payment of AED 100,000.
UAE Government Issues Official Statement
On July 8, the ICP released a public statement discrediting the fraudulent campaign. The agency confirmed that:
“All UAE Golden Visa applications are processed through official government platforms only. No external consultancy or advisory firm has authority to issue, guarantee, or nominate individuals for the Golden Visa.”
The authority clarified that no visa granting UAE residency or citizenship is available for the price stated in the viral claim.
Furthermore, the ICP emphasized that any visa applicant should consult only government sources such as their official website or smart application, and avoid unofficial intermediaries who attempt to exploit public trust.
Legal Action Against Fake Consultancy Firms Likely
Though the ICP did not name Rayad Group directly, the statement confirmed that it had tracked consulting offices abroad for issuing false press releases and scamming vulnerable individuals seeking opportunities in the UAE. The agency also warned of legal consequences for such entities.
According to immigration attorney Prashant Ajmera, the scam exploits Indians’ desire to live abroad. He explained:
“If Golden Visas for investors require crores in property or business investment, why would they suddenly offer it for ₹23 lakh?”
Ajmera advised potential applicants to always cross-check official announcements and consult only with registered immigration experts.
No Shortcut to UAE Citizenship
Contrary to the fake release’s claims, UAE citizenship is not granted through Golden Visa schemes or any other similar immigration program. The Golden Visa only allows long-term residency, subject to strict conditions and proper documentation.
The UAE government reiterated that eligibility is based on legal guidelines, ministerial approvals, and formal channels, not through backdoor offers or paid nomination schemes.
What Should Applicants Do Now?
If you’ve come across any communication offering nomination-based Golden Visas through unofficial portals or promising citizenship, do not engage. Here’s what you should do:
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Report the incident to ICP or local authorities
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Visit the official ICP portal or smart app to review legitimate Golden Visa categories
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Contact the ICP helpline at 600522222 for clarifications
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Never transfer funds without government approval and documentation
