UAE Denies Toncoin Staking for Golden Visa, Price Drops 6%

UAE officials have collectively refuted claims that staking Toncoin (TON) could secure a 10-year golden visa in the United Arab Emirates. The misinformation surfaced after an announcement by the TON Foundation, which proposed a pathway to a 10-year "Golden Visa" for investors who stake $100,000 in TON and pay a $35,000 processing fee. The TON Foundation's program, in partnership with a crypto-native travel firm, suggested that this route would bypass the typical qualifications for a UAE Golden Visa, such as real estate investments or exceptional career achievements.

The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP), the Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA), and the Dubai-based Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA) issued a joint statement to clarify that no such crypto-linked residency program exists. The agencies emphasized that only specific categories—such as real estate investors, entrepreneurs, and individuals with exceptional skills—are eligible for long-term visas under established criteria. The SCA reminded the public that digital assets fall under distinct regulatory frameworks and do not influence eligibility for immigration benefits. They urged the public to verify such information through official channels to avoid falling victim to misinformation or fraud.

VARA went a step further, warning that the TON project is not licensed or overseen by the authority. The agency stressed the importance of transacting only through authorized firms to ensure consumer safety, especially in the fast-growing virtual asset sector. Authorities concluded with a strong advisory: no digital currency—Toncoin included—grants access to immigration benefits in the UAE. Investors should remain cautious and rely solely on government-issued guidance for matters involving visas and financial investments.

The UAE government's swift refutation of these claims underscores the importance of verifying information from official sources. The regulatory framework governing digital currency investments in the region is clear: digital currency investments are governed by specific regulations and are unrelated to golden visa eligibility. The UAE authorities urged investors to seek information from credible sources to avoid misinformation or fraud, emphasizing that the official Golden Visa process remains unchanged. The price of Toncoin experienced a temporary rise following the announcement but subsequently dropped by 6% after the UAE government's clarification.