TON Launches Crypto Staking Program for UAE Golden Visas

The Open Network (TON), the blockchain ecosystem originally incubated by Telegram, has launched a new residency program offering UAE Golden Visas through crypto staking. This initiative allows applicants to qualify by staking $100,000 in TON tokens for three years, along with a $35,000 processing fee. This program eliminates traditional requirements such as real estate purchases or minimum income thresholds, which are typically associated with such visa programs.

The selection process for this program is merit-based and involves a selective review of applicants. The staked assets remain under the control of the user during the lock-up period, with the staking mechanism implemented via a decentralized smart contract that can be verified on the TON blockchain. The entire process, from document submission to visa approval, is estimated to take under seven weeks. This is significantly faster than the conventional UAE Golden Visa process, which can take three to six months.

The visa coverage extends to the spouses, children, and parents of the principal applicant, with no additional costs beyond the standard UAE government fees. The program also projects an annual return of 3-4% on the staked TON tokens over the three-year period. Applications for the program begin with an initial submission, followed by a review phase after the payment of fees and token staking. Upon approval, UAE-based partners manage the visa processing, leading to country entry and residency status confirmation.

This crypto-based visa route offers an alternative to the conventional UAE Golden Visa, which typically requires a minimum investment of $540,000 in real estate or fixed deposits. These traditional investments often come with limited liquidity and a longer approval window. The new program not only simplifies the process but also provides a more flexible and potentially lucrative option for those interested in securing residency in the UAE.

In summary, TON's new residency program through crypto staking provides a streamlined and potentially more attractive pathway to obtaining a UAE Golden Visa. By leveraging blockchain technology, the program offers a merit-based selection process, faster approval times, and the potential for annual returns on staked tokens. This initiative represents a significant innovation in the residency-by-investment landscape, offering a modern and flexible alternative to traditional methods.