UAE Launches 10-Year Golden Visa for $100,000 TON Stake

The United Arab Emirates has launched a pioneering initiative that allows foreign nationals to secure a 10-year Golden Visa by staking $100,000 worth of Toncoin (TON) tokens for three years. This program, developed in partnership with The Open Network (TON), offers a streamlined and cost-effective alternative to traditional residency-by-investment routes, which typically require real estate purchases or substantial financial commitments exceeding $500,000.

Key features of the TON Golden Visa Program include a one-time administrative fee of $35,000, family coverage for immediate family members with only standard government fees applying, and full control of staked assets held in a decentralized smart contract. Applicants can expect an estimated annual yield of 3–4% on staked TON during the three-year period, with visa approval expected within seven weeks from the submission of required documents. There is no need for real estate investment or minimum income thresholds—just the TON staking requirement.

The application process involves submitting documentation and staking the required TON tokens, which are securely held in a verifiable, decentralized smart contract on the TON blockchain. After payment of the processing fee, applications are reviewed and, if approved, processed by UAE-based partners. Successful applicants and their families receive 10-year residency permits, granting them access to the UAE’s dynamic business and lifestyle environment.

This initiative marks the UAE’s first blockchain-native residency program, signaling a strategic shift toward attracting high-caliber digital asset investors and reinforcing the country’s reputation as a global crypto hub. By leveraging TON staking, the UAE is setting a precedent for integrating decentralized finance with national residency policies, potentially inspiring similar programs worldwide.

The UAE's decision to integrate TON token staking into its Golden Visa program is part of its broader strategy to attract global talent, institutional investors, and startups, thereby fostering the development of a robust Web3 ecosystem. The Golden Visa program, which has been a significant draw for high-net-worth individuals and entrepreneurs, now includes a pathway for crypto investors, marking a new era in the region's approach to digital assets.

The TON token, which stands for The Open Network, is a blockchain platform that supports decentralized applications and smart contracts. By staking TON tokens, investors can qualify for the Golden Visa, which grants them residency in the UAE for a decade. This initiative not only encourages long-term investment in the UAE but also positions the country as a global hub for blockchain and cryptocurrency innovation.

The UAE's proactive approach to innovation and its willingness to adapt to the evolving digital landscape are underscored by this milestone. As the world continues to embrace blockchain technology and cryptocurrencies, the UAE's initiative sets a precedent for how governments can leverage these technologies to drive economic growth and attract global talent. This move is likely to have a ripple effect, encouraging other countries to explore similar initiatives and further integrating cryptocurrencies into the global financial landscape.