How Indians can apply for the UAE Golden Visa without leaving the country

Note: VFS has issued a statement clarifying that its partnership with Rayad Group was strictly limited to informing interested individuals about the services offered by Rayad Group. VFS added that it continues to comply fully with all applicable laws and regulations in the UAE.

Dubai: Indians aiming for long-term residency in the UAE can now apply for the Golden Visa from outside the country through a new advisory service launched by VFS Global in partnership with Rayad Group.

Final approval of the visa application still requires the applicant to travel to the UAE and clearance from the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP).

The service aims to simplify the application process for eligible individuals in India, offering expert guidance on the UAE Golden Visa programme, a 10-year residency scheme designed for skilled professionals, investors, creatives, and entrepreneurs.

While the Golden Visa has typically required applicants to be present in the UAE, this new initiative allows Indian applicants to start and complete the nomination and pre-approval process remotely.

Advisory support to navigate the application process

The immigration advisory service is being offered through VFS Global’s Education, Trade & Migration (ETM) Services unit, in collaboration with the Rayad Group. The service is accessible online or by phone and is available across major Indian cities including New Delhi, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Chennai, Hyderabad and Pune.

Applicants will be assessed based on their professional profile, financial standing, educational background, and alignment with one of the UAE’s eligible Golden Visa categories.

According to the official advisory website, eligible individuals include:

• Business owners

• Scientists and professionals in key sectors

• Artists, influencers and creatives

• Entrepreneurs contributing to UAE’s innovation, economy, or culture

Required documents

Applicants must submit:

• A personal and professional profile

• Passport copy

• Highest academic qualification

• Six months of bank statements

• Valid proof of address

• Police clearance certificate

The visa also allows holders to sponsor family members including spouses, adult children, parents, and household staff without the need to invest in property or establish a company.

How to apply

Applicants can access the service by visiting www.onevasco.com/ind/en/immigration/uae-golden-visa.html or calling a dedicated helpline +91-22-62018483.

The advisory programme will be run through Centres of Excellence jointly established by VFS Global and Rayad Group in select Indian cities. These centres are expected to combine legal expertise with Generative AI tools to streamline the application process and ensure compliance with UAE immigration regulations.

Yummi Talwar, Chief Operating Officer – South Asia at VFS Global, said: “We believe there is strong demand for immigration advisory services, particularly for the UAE Golden Visa. In line with our customer-first policy, we are delighted to roll out this solution that empowers applicants to take informed decisions.”

Rayad Kamal Ayub, Managing Director of Rayad Group, added: “The UAE’s combination of economic stability, safety, world-class infrastructure, and favourable tax policies makes it a leading destination for high-net-worth individuals seeking a better quality of life.”