The UAE denies Toncoin partnership for Golden Visas, urging caution amidst crypto hype. Is it aggressive marketing or misleading info? Let's break it down.
UAE, Toncoin, and Golden Visas: Separating Fact from Crypto Fiction
The buzz around the UAE offering Golden Visas to Toncoin stakers? Not quite what it seems. Recent reports clarify the Emirates' stance, urging crypto enthusiasts to tread carefully. Let's dive in.
The Claim: Stake TON, Get a Golden Visa
Earlier this year, Toncoin announced a program promising a 10-year Golden Visa to investors staking $100,000 worth of TON tokens for three years, plus a $35,000 processing fee. The offer seemed enticing: a fast track to UAE residency without the usual hefty real estate investment. This caused a temporary surge in TON's price, briefly hitting $3.09.
The Reality Check: UAE Authorities Respond
However, the UAE's Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP), along with the Securities and Commodities Authority (SCA) and the Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA), quickly debunked these claims. In a joint statement released in July 2025, they clarified that Golden Visas are issued under specific criteria, which do not include digital currency investments. The ICP specifically stated that eligibility is limited to real estate investors, entrepreneurs, exceptional talents, scientists, and other specific categories.
Furthermore, VARA emphasized that Toncoin is neither regulated nor officially licensed to operate in the UAE.
CZ Weighs In: DYOR, Folks!
Even Binance's former CEO, Changpeng Zhao (CZ), chimed in, urging investors to “DYOR” (do your own research). He suggested the initial announcement might be aggressive or misleading marketing. CZ also hinted that competence and exceptionality are better routes to obtaining a Golden Visa than paying agents.
What's the Real Deal?
It appears Toncoin may have been offering a third-party service leveraging its token for customer qualification, rather than an official partnership with the UAE government. While other countries do offer citizenship or residency programs that integrate cryptocurrencies, the UAE's official stance is clear: digital asset investments don't automatically qualify you for a Golden Visa.
The Takeaway
The UAE’s Golden Visa program remains a prestigious pathway for certain individuals. While the allure of crypto-linked residency is strong, it's crucial to verify claims and rely on official sources. Don't let the crypto hype cloud your judgment – always DYOR!
So, while the dream of staking your way to a Dubai penthouse might be on hold, remember that genuine achievement and exceptional talent are still your best bets. And hey, who knows what the future holds? Maybe one day, your mad coding skills will be your ticket to paradise. Until then, keep building, keep researching, and keep your eyes peeled for the next big thing in crypto... just maybe with a grain of salt.
