UAE denies rumors of lifetime golden visas offered to certain nationalities

The United Arab Emirates has denied media reports claiming the country is offering lifetime golden visas to certain nationalities.

The UAE’s Golden Visa is a long-term residency program that allows foreign professionals to live, work, or study in the country while benefiting from a host of exclusive advantages. As outlined on the UAE government’s official portal, eligible recipients include investors, entrepreneurs, scientists, exceptional students and graduates, humanitarian pioneers, and frontline workers.

According to the Emirates News Agency (WAM), the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) said such claims, published by some local and international media outlets and websites, are inaccurate and without legal basis.

“The categories, conditions, and regulations of the Golden Visa are clearly defined in accordance with official laws, legislations, and ministerial decisions,” the ICP said in a statement.

It advised individuals to refer only to the official ICP website or smart application for accurate information.

The authority stressed that all golden visa applications are processed only through official government channels within the UAE. It said no internal or external consultancy entity is recognized as an authorized party in the application process.

According to WAM, the ICP had recently observed news articles from a consultancy office based in another country suggesting that lifetime golden visas could be obtained for all categories from outside the UAE through commercial entities under simplified conditions.

“These claims have no legal basis and were made without coordination with the relevant authorities in the UAE,” the ICP said.

It reiterated its commitment to maintaining a safe and transparent environment for applicants and improving its services exclusively through official digital platforms.

The authority warned that legal action will be taken against any entities spreading false information and attempting to collect money illegally from individuals seeking to live in the UAE.

WAM reported that the ICP urged people not to respond to inaccurate rumors and false news aimed at exploiting their hopes of a better life.

“Individuals should avoid paying any fees or submitting personal documents to any party claiming to provide these services,” the ICP said.

The authority strongly advised the public to rely on official sources and verify all information before taking any action.