Dubai’s Golden Visa program is an attractive option for professionals, investors, and skilled workers seeking long-term residency in the UAE. The visa offers benefits such as a 10-year renewable residency, no need for a national sponsor, and business opportunities in a tax-free environment. However, as its popularity grows, so do scams targeting hopeful applicants. Every day, unsuspecting Bangladeshis lose an estimated $15,000 to fraudulent agents and fake schemes promising quick and easy access to the Dubai Golden Visa.
In this article, we’ll explore the different types of scams, red flags to watch for, and how to safely apply for a legitimate Dubai Golden Visa.
The Dubai Golden Visa was introduced to attract skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, and investors to the UAE. Unlike standard work visas that require sponsorship from an employer, this visa provides long-term residency with benefits such as:
Eligible applicants generally include:
With these attractive benefits, fraudsters exploit applicants by promising shortcuts, fake approvals, and fraudulent investment schemes.
One of the most common scams involves fake immigration agents who claim they can guarantee a Golden Visa for a fee. These agents often operate through Facebook ads, WhatsApp messages, and unauthorized offices in Bangladesh. They demand upfront payments, often ranging from $5,000 to $15,000, and then disappear without delivering the visa.
🔴 Red Flags:
Scammers often lure victims by offering fake investment opportunities in Dubai. They claim that a $50,000 – $100,000 investment in a fake company or real estate project will make you eligible for a Golden Visa. In reality, these companies do not exist or disappear after collecting funds.
🔴 Red Flags:
Some scammers pose as Dubai employers, promising a job that qualifies for the Golden Visa. They demand a processing fee or ask the applicant to pay for a work permit. After receiving payment, they cut off contact or provide fake documents.
🔴 Red Flags:
If you are considering applying for a Golden Visa, follow these essential steps to avoid scams:
The UAE government provides clear guidelines on how to apply for a Golden Visa. The safest way to apply is through:
Avoid dealing with third-party agencies unless they are licensed consultants.
If you are applying through an investment scheme, always verify the legitimacy of the company before making any payments. Check:
No legitimate immigration consultant or employer will ask for a large payment upfront. Always request:
Some agencies claim to be “UAE-approved visa consultants.” Always verify their license with:
Scammers often use WhatsApp, Facebook, and Telegram to attract victims. If someone approaches you on social media offering a Golden Visa without an official process, it’s likely a scam.
In 2023, a Bangladeshi businessman paid $10,000 to an agent in Dhaka who promised a “fast-track” Dubai Golden Visa. After receiving the money, the agent disappeared, and the businessman later found out that his application had never been submitted.
A group of investors in Chattogram lost a total of $100,000 after being tricked into investing in a non-existent real estate project in Dubai. The company turned out to be fake, and the victims had no legal way to recover their money.
The Dubai Golden Visa is a legitimate opportunity for professionals and investors, but scammers are exploiting its popularity. Every day, Bangladeshis lose thousands of dollars to fraudulent schemes. To avoid being a victim:
✅ Always apply through official UAE government websites
✅ Verify any investment or job offer before sending money
✅ Never trust agents who promise “guaranteed approval”
✅ Report scams to authorities if you suspect fraud
By staying informed and vigilant, you can safely apply for a Dubai Golden Visa and protect yourself from scammers.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial or legal advice. The Dubai Golden Visa application process is regulated by the UAE government, and applicants should verify all information with official sources before proceeding. Beware of scams and consult legal professionals if in doubt.
Taylor
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2025.04.02
