
A Dubai-based consultancy firm recently issued a public apology after sharing incorrect information suggesting that certain nationalities, including Indians, were eligible for lifetime UAE Golden Visas. The clarification came after widespread social media attention and confusion. The episode highlights the growing interest in migration policies among Indian citizens, especially from Tier 2 cities looking for overseas opportunities.
The consultancy had initially posted promotional content indicating that nationals from specific countries could receive lifetime Golden Visas without meeting standard eligibility requirements. This quickly went viral, particularly among those seeking long-term residency in the UAE.
However, UAE authorities confirmed that there have been no changes to the existing visa regulations. The Golden Visa remains tied to specific criteria such as exceptional talent, investment, entrepreneurship, and specialised skills.
Facing public backlash and regulatory scrutiny, the consultancy group retracted its earlier claims and issued a formal apology. They admitted that the promotional material was misleading and that they had not verified the information with official government sources.
The firm also stated that steps are being taken internally to prevent such misinformation in the future, especially on sensitive topics like immigration.
Over the past few years, the UAE’s Golden Visa programme has drawn attention from many Indian professionals, investors, and students looking to settle abroad. For Tier 2 city residents from places like Jaipur, Coimbatore, Bhopal, and Nagpur, such residency programmes are seen as an attractive path to global opportunities.
However, this incident highlights the risks of relying on unverified claims, especially from social media or unauthorised agents. Immigration experts are now urging aspirants to consult official government portals or licensed consultants before making decisions.
India continues to witness a surge in interest around international migration, not just from metros but also from semi-urban and smaller towns. The Golden Visa programmes in countries like the UAE, Portugal, and Canada are increasingly viewed as routes to career growth, quality education, and long-term stability.
As interest grows, so does the need for clear, authentic information — and for regulatory frameworks that crack down on misinformation and unethical marketing.
The recent episode around the UAE Golden Visa highlights the importance of transparency and accountability in the immigration consulting space. For Indian citizens, especially from Tier 2 cities, this serves as a reminder to stay cautious, verify facts, and rely only on trusted sources before making life-altering decisions related to overseas residency.