Introduction: What is a Golden Visa?
A Golden Visa is a long-term residence permit offered by various countries to high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) in exchange for a significant investment in the host nation. These visas typically grant legal residency and a pathway to citizenship or permanent residency, allowing individuals and their families to live, work, study, and receive healthcare in the new country.
In 2025, countries like the United Arab Emirates (UAE), United States (US), New Zealand, Canada, and Singapore offer Golden Visas with varying costs and benefits. These programs are designed to attract global investors, entrepreneurs, and skilled individuals.
UAE Golden Visa 2025: Nomination-Based Golden Visa for Indians
The UAE Golden Visa program has undergone a significant transformation for Indian nationals. In a major update, the UAE government has launched a nomination-based Golden Visa scheme specifically targeting Indian citizens, allowing them to enjoy long-term residency without purchasing expensive real estate or businesses.
Key Features of UAE Golden Visa:
- Based on nomination instead of investment
- Applicants can be nominated in India
- No mandatory visit to the UAE for pre-approval
- Targeted at professionals, businesspersons, and HNWIs
UAE Golden Visa Cost in 2025:
- AED 100,000 (approximately ₹23.3 lakh)
- Lifetime validity under the new policy
Pilot Countries:
- India and Bangladesh have been selected for the first phase
- Managed by Rayad Group consultancy
United States Golden Visa: Trump Gold Card Visa
The United States Golden Visa, often linked to the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program, has been in the spotlight due to the proposed Trump Gold Card initiative.
What is the Trump Gold Card Golden Visa?
- A program introduced by former US President Donald Trump
- Aims to provide permanent residency in exchange for investment
- Currently on hold, but attracted attention from global investors
US Golden Visa Cost in 2025:
- $5 million investment requirement
- Promises a fast track to Green Card or PR status
- Ideal for entrepreneurs and real estate investors
New Zealand Golden Visa: Active Investor Plus Visa
In September 2022, New Zealand replaced its investor visa program with the Active Investor Plus Visa, designed to bring in serious capital and commitment from international investors.
Features of the New Zealand Golden Visa:
- Provides indefinite residency
- Applicants can live, work, and study in the country
- Must meet investment and stay duration criteria
New Zealand Golden Visa Cost in 2025:
- Minimum investment of NZD 5 million
- Investment can be in approved businesses, funds, or assets
- Offers access to high-quality education and healthcare
Canada Golden Visa: Start-Up Visa Program
Canada’s Golden Visa is officially known as the Canada Start-Up Visa Program. This visa is specifically tailored for entrepreneurs and active investors seeking to launch innovative businesses in Canada.
Canada Start-Up Visa Highlights:
- Offers permanent residence to start-up founders
- Encourages innovation and economic growth
- No age restriction, and family can be included
Canada Golden Visa Cost in 2025:
- Ranges between $215,000 to $275,000
- Includes business costs, legal, and government fees
- Requires support from a designated Canadian organization
Singapore Golden Visa: Global Investor Program (GIP)
Singapore offers one of the most exclusive and expensive golden visas through its Global Investor Program (GIP). This scheme attracts top-tier entrepreneurs, investors, and business executives.
Singapore GIP Visa Features:
- Grants Permanent Residence (PR) within 9–12 months
- Ideal for founders of established businesses
- Encourages investment in local enterprises and innovation
Singapore Golden Visa Cost in 2025:
- Starts at SGD 10 million (approx. ₹62 crore)
- Can go up to SGD 50 million depending on investment type
- Business must contribute to Singapore’s economic growth
Summary: Comparative Table of Golden Visa Costs and Features
| Country | Visa Name | Cost (Approx) | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|
| UAE | Nomination-Based Golden Visa | ₹23.3 lakh | No investment, lifetime residency |
| United States | Trump Gold Card Visa (EB-5) | $5 million | PR in return for investment |
| New Zealand | Active Investor Plus Visa | NZD 5 million | Live, work, study indefinitely |
| Canada | Start-Up Visa Program | $215,000–$275,000 | PR for entrepreneurs |
| Singapore | Global Investor Program (GIP) | SGD 10–50 million | Fast-track to PR for top investors |
Why Golden Visas Are Gaining Popularity?
Golden visas are attractive because they:
- Offer financial freedom and mobility
- Allow families to relocate together
- Provide access to top-tier education, healthcare, and security
- Serve as a backup residency in uncertain times
- Create business expansion opportunities
Final Words: Should You Apply for a Golden Visa in 2025?
With countries revising and updating their Golden Visa programs in 2025, now is a good time for Indian HNWIs and entrepreneurs to explore international options. Whether you are looking for a lifetime residency in the UAE, a business-friendly ecosystem in Singapore, or a pathway to permanent residence in Canada, these visas offer strategic benefits.
However, each program has its own eligibility, compliance, and investment regulations, so consulting a legal or immigration expert is crucial before proceeding.
Want a Golden Visa? Here’s What It Costs in 5 Popular Countries for Indians
Introduction: What is a Golden Visa?
A Golden Visa is a special type of residency permit offered by several countries to attract high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs), investors, entrepreneurs, and professionals. These programs offer long-term residency or even a pathway to citizenship in exchange for significant investment, business establishment, or under special nomination schemes.
In 2025, countries such as the United Arab Emirates (UAE), United States, New Zealand, Canada, and Singapore continue to offer attractive Golden Visa programs for Indians. Each country has its own rules, costs, and benefits, but all provide global mobility and permanent settlement opportunities.
UAE Golden Visa for Indians 2025: A New Nomination-Based Model
The United Arab Emirates has introduced a brand-new Golden Visa program for Indian citizens that operates on a nomination-based system rather than large investments in property or business.
Key Highlights:
- No need to buy expensive real estate or invest large amounts
- Nomination-based process instead of investment-based entry
- Pilot phase launched for India and Bangladesh
- Rayad Group, a consultancy firm, selected to oversee implementation in India
UAE Golden Visa Cost for Indians:
- AED 100,000 (approx. ₹23.3 lakh) for lifetime residency
- No requirement to travel to UAE for initial approval
Benefits of UAE Golden Visa:
- Lifetime residency status
- No need for employer sponsorship
- Access to healthcare, education, and business setup
- Residency for entire family under one application
United States: Trump Gold Card Visa Under Spotlight
Although the traditional EB-5 Investor Visa remains the primary option, a proposed initiative called the Trump Gold Card Visa gained attention after being announced by Donald Trump.
Features of the US Golden Visa:
- Offers permanent residency in exchange for investment
- Designed for ultra-high-net-worth individuals
- Currently on hold, but could relaunch in future
US Golden Visa Cost:
- Investment requirement: $5 million
- Designed for real estate, job-creating businesses, or funds
Benefits:
- Green Card for applicant and immediate family
- Access to world-class healthcare and education
- Opportunity to apply for citizenship after 5 years
New Zealand: Active Investor Plus Visa for Indian Investors
In 2022, New Zealand replaced its existing visa programs with the Active Investor Plus Visa, targeting serious investors looking to contribute to the country’s economy.
Key Requirements:
- Minimum investment: NZD 5 million (approx. ₹25 crore)
- Funds must be placed in approved businesses or funds
- Must spend at least 117 days over four years in the country
Benefits of New Zealand Golden Visa:
- Indefinite residency for the investor and family
- Access to free public healthcare and education
- Option to apply for permanent residency and citizenship
Canada: Start-Up Visa for Entrepreneurs
Canada offers an entrepreneur-friendly Golden Visa, officially known as the Canada Start-Up Visa Program. This is ideal for innovators and business founders from India.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Must have an innovative business idea
- Get support from a designated Canadian incubator, angel investor, or VC fund
- Demonstrate language skills and sufficient settlement funds
Cost of Canada Golden Visa:
- Total cost ranges from $215,000 to $275,000
- Includes processing, legal, and business setup costs
Advantages:
- Permanent Residency on arrival
- Family inclusion under one application
- Ideal gateway to North America for Indian start-ups
Singapore: Global Investor Programme for High-End Investors
Singapore, known for its business-friendly environment, offers the Global Investor Programme (GIP) as its Golden Visa solution.
Investment Requirements:
- Minimum investment of SGD 10 million (₹62 crore approx.)
- Investment can be made in a new or existing business, or approved funds
Processing Time:
- Permanent Residence (PR) granted within 9 to 12 months
Benefits of Singapore Golden Visa:
- Access to Asia’s top financial and tech hub
- Stable economy, low taxation, and strong legal framework
- Inclusion of family members in PR application
Comparative Table: Golden Visa Costs and Highlights for Indians
| Country | Visa Type | Investment Cost | Special Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| UAE | Nomination-Based Golden Visa | ₹23.3 lakh | No investment required, lifetime validity |
| United States | Trump Gold Card (EB-5) | $5 million | Fast-track to PR, business-focused |
| New Zealand | Active Investor Plus Visa | NZD 5 million | Residency with business investment |
| Canada | Start-Up Visa | $215K–$275K | For entrepreneurs and innovators |
| Singapore | Global Investor Programme | SGD 10–50 million | PR for high-end investors and business owners |
Why Indians Are Opting for Golden Visas in 2025?
Golden Visas are becoming increasingly popular among wealthy Indians, tech founders, business professionals, and even retirees for several reasons:
Major Motivations:
- Residency in a stable and developed country
- Global mobility and visa-free travel options
- Better quality of life and world-class education
- Tax benefits in countries like UAE and Singapore
- Opportunity for dual citizenship (in some cases)
Final Thoughts: Is a Golden Visa Right for You?
For many Indians, a Golden Visa in 2025 represents a gateway to global lifestyle, safety, and long-term opportunities. While countries like UAE now offer nomination-based visas, others still require significant investments. It’s essential to evaluate your personal and financial goals before applying.
Expert Tip:
Consult with immigration specialists or certified consultants to understand documentation, legal compliance, and the right fit based on your background and goals.
Keywords Used:
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Introduction: What is a Golden Visa?
A Golden Visa is a special type of residency permit offered by several countries to attract high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs), investors, entrepreneurs, and professionals. These programs offer long-term residency or even a pathway to citizenship in exchange for significant investment, business establishment, or under special nomination schemes.
In 2025, countries such as the United Arab Emirates (UAE), United States, New Zealand, Canada, and Singapore continue to offer attractive Golden Visa programs for Indians. Each country has its own rules, costs, and benefits, but all provide global mobility and permanent settlement opportunities.
UAE Golden Visa for Indians 2025: A New Nomination-Based Model
The United Arab Emirates has introduced a brand-new Golden Visa program for Indian citizens that operates on a nomination-based system rather than large investments in property or business.
Key Highlights:
- No need to buy expensive real estate or invest large amounts
- Nomination-based process instead of investment-based entry
- Pilot phase launched for India and Bangladesh
- Rayad Group, a consultancy firm, selected to oversee implementation in India
UAE Golden Visa Cost for Indians:
- AED 100,000 (approx. ₹23.3 lakh) for lifetime residency
- No requirement to travel to UAE for initial approval
Benefits of UAE Golden Visa:
- Lifetime residency status
- No need for employer sponsorship
- Access to healthcare, education, and business setup
- Residency for entire family under one application
United States: Trump Gold Card Visa Under Spotlight
Although the traditional EB-5 Investor Visa remains the primary option, a proposed initiative called the Trump Gold Card Visa gained attention after being announced by Donald Trump.
Features of the US Golden Visa:
- Offers permanent residency in exchange for investment
- Designed for ultra-high-net-worth individuals
- Currently on hold, but could relaunch in future
US Golden Visa Cost:
- Investment requirement: $5 million
- Designed for real estate, job-creating businesses, or funds
Benefits:
- Green Card for applicant and immediate family
- Access to world-class healthcare and education
- Opportunity to apply for citizenship after 5 years
New Zealand: Active Investor Plus Visa for Indian Investors
In 2022, New Zealand replaced its existing visa programs with the Active Investor Plus Visa, targeting serious investors looking to contribute to the country’s economy.
Key Requirements:
- Minimum investment: NZD 5 million (approx. ₹25 crore)
- Funds must be placed in approved businesses or funds
- Must spend at least 117 days over four years in the country
Benefits of New Zealand Golden Visa:
- Indefinite residency for the investor and family
- Access to free public healthcare and education
- Option to apply for permanent residency and citizenship
Canada: Start-Up Visa for Entrepreneurs
Canada offers an entrepreneur-friendly Golden Visa, officially known as the Canada Start-Up Visa Program. This is ideal for innovators and business founders from India.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Must have an innovative business idea
- Get support from a designated Canadian incubator, angel investor, or VC fund
- Demonstrate language skills and sufficient settlement funds
Cost of Canada Golden Visa:
- Total cost ranges from $215,000 to $275,000
- Includes processing, legal, and business setup costs
Advantages:
- Permanent Residency on arrival
- Family inclusion under one application
- Ideal gateway to North America for Indian start-ups
Singapore: Global Investor Programme for High-End Investors
Singapore, known for its business-friendly environment, offers the Global Investor Programme (GIP) as its Golden Visa solution.
Investment Requirements:
- Minimum investment of SGD 10 million (₹62 crore approx.)
- Investment can be made in a new or existing business, or approved funds
Processing Time:
- Permanent Residence (PR) granted within 9 to 12 months
Benefits of Singapore Golden Visa:
- Access to Asia’s top financial and tech hub
- Stable economy, low taxation, and strong legal framework
- Inclusion of family members in PR application
Comparative Table: Golden Visa Costs and Highlights for Indians
| Country | Visa Type | Investment Cost | Special Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| UAE | Nomination-Based Golden Visa | ₹23.3 lakh | No investment required, lifetime validity |
| United States | Trump Gold Card (EB-5) | $5 million | Fast-track to PR, business-focused |
| New Zealand | Active Investor Plus Visa | NZD 5 million | Residency with business investment |
| Canada | Start-Up Visa | $215K–$275K | For entrepreneurs and innovators |
| Singapore | Global Investor Programme | SGD 10–50 million | PR for high-end investors and business owners |
Why Indians Are Opting for Golden Visas in 2025?
Golden Visas are becoming increasingly popular among wealthy Indians, tech founders, business professionals, and even retirees for several reasons:
Major Motivations:
- Residency in a stable and developed country
- Global mobility and visa-free travel options
- Better quality of life and world-class education
- Tax benefits in countries like UAE and Singapore
- Opportunity for dual citizenship (in some cases)
Final Thoughts: Is a Golden Visa Right for You?
For many Indians, a Golden Visa in 2025 represents a gateway to global lifestyle, safety, and long-term opportunities. While countries like UAE now offer nomination-based visas, others still require significant investments. It’s essential to evaluate your personal and financial goals before applying.
Expert Tip:
Consult with immigration specialists or certified consultants to understand documentation, legal compliance, and the right fit based on your background and goals.
Final Words: Should You Apply for a Golden Visa in 2025?
With countries revising and updating their Golden Visa programs in 2025, now is a good time for Indian HNWIs and entrepreneurs to explore international options. Whether you are looking for a lifetime residency in the UAE, a business-friendly ecosystem in Singapore, or a pathway to permanent residence in Canada, these visas offer strategic benefits.
However, each program has its own eligibility, compliance, and investment regulations, so consulting a legal or immigration expert is crucial before proceeding.
