The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) has issued an urgent clarification after social-media posts claimed Indian nationals could secure ‘lifetime’ UAE Golden Visas by paying consultancy firms as little as AED 100,000. In an update posted on 2 February 2026, the authority stressed that all Golden Visa applications must be submitted through official government platforms and that no external consultancy is recognised as an authorised intermediary.(newsonair.gov.in)
Golden Visas grant 10-year renewable residency to investors, entrepreneurs, skilled professionals and outstanding students, allowing them to own 100 per cent of businesses and sponsor family members with extended out-of-country stays. While the UAE added five new eligibility categories in 2025—including nurses, educators and digital-content creators—the underlying approval process remains rigorous, involving background checks and proof of qualifications or investment.(newsonair.gov.in)
![UAE warns against ‘shortcut’ Golden Visa offers and reiterates official application channels]()
For travellers and employers who still want expert guidance without relying on unverified middlemen, VisaHQ’s UAE desk (https://www.visahq.com/united-arab-emirates/) offers compliant, end-to-end support—helping applicants compile documents, book biometrics and track progress while ensuring every submission flows through the ICP’s official channels.
Officials said misleading advertisements risk defrauding applicants and damaging the programme’s credibility. Legal action will be taken against entities collecting money under false pretences. Prospective applicants are advised to rely only on the ICP website, the ICP smart app or authorised typing centres for information and submissions, and to call the 24-hour hotline (600 522 222) for verification.(newsonair.gov.in)
For employers and relocation managers the statement is a timely reminder to vet third-party visa vendors carefully. Using unaccredited agents could expose companies to fines and reputational risk if employee applications are rejected or found fraudulent. Multinationals are encouraged to update internal mobility policies to reflect the ICP’s latest guidance and approved channels.
Golden Visas grant 10-year renewable residency to investors, entrepreneurs, skilled professionals and outstanding students, allowing them to own 100 per cent of businesses and sponsor family members with extended out-of-country stays. While the UAE added five new eligibility categories in 2025—including nurses, educators and digital-content creators—the underlying approval process remains rigorous, involving background checks and proof of qualifications or investment.(newsonair.gov.in)
For travellers and employers who still want expert guidance without relying on unverified middlemen, VisaHQ’s UAE desk (https://www.visahq.com/united-arab-emirates/) offers compliant, end-to-end support—helping applicants compile documents, book biometrics and track progress while ensuring every submission flows through the ICP’s official channels.
Officials said misleading advertisements risk defrauding applicants and damaging the programme’s credibility. Legal action will be taken against entities collecting money under false pretences. Prospective applicants are advised to rely only on the ICP website, the ICP smart app or authorised typing centres for information and submissions, and to call the 24-hour hotline (600 522 222) for verification.(newsonair.gov.in)
For employers and relocation managers the statement is a timely reminder to vet third-party visa vendors carefully. Using unaccredited agents could expose companies to fines and reputational risk if employee applications are rejected or found fraudulent. Multinationals are encouraged to update internal mobility policies to reflect the ICP’s latest guidance and approved channels.
