Telegram’s Open Network (TON) recently made headlines with the announcement of a groundbreaking initiative: a 10-year UAE Golden Visa program for investors who stake $100,000 worth of Toncoin (TON) for three years. This innovative program is the first of its kind within the crypto space and aims to lower the entry barrier for residency in the United Arab Emirates.
How does the TON golden visa work?
To qualify for the program, applicants must stake a minimum of $100,000 in TON tokens for a period of three years through a decentralized smart contract on the TON blockchain. The process is transparent and verifiable, ensuring that investors maintain control of their funds throughout the lock-up period. In addition to the staking requirement, there is a one-time government processing fee of $35,000.
Successful applicants and their immediate family members, including spouses, children, and parents, will be granted a 10-year renewable UAE Golden Visa, allowing them to live, work, and invest in the country. The entire application process can be completed in under seven weeks, a significant improvement over traditional routes that typically require at least $540,000 in illiquid assets and longer processing times.
Stakers also stand to benefit financially from the program, with an estimated 3–4% annual yield on the staked TON during the three-year period. All funds are fully unlocked at the end of the term, regardless of market conditions.
Community reactions and social buzz
The announcement of the TON Golden Visa program has generated excitement within the crypto community, particularly as Dubai emerges as a leading crypto capital. Ash Crypto took to Twitter to share the news, stating, “Breaking: TON has just partnered with UAE to offer a 10-year golden visa to TON stakers.”
Max Crown, CEO of the TON Foundation, expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative, calling it “Big News” and highlighting the exclusive opportunity for TON holders to secure a 10-year Golden Visa.
Why Dubai? Crypto adoption and global appeal
Dubai and the UAE have rapidly become a global hub for digital assets, thanks to progressive regulation, tax incentives, and a thriving blockchain ecosystem. The recent decision to exempt crypto transactions from the 5% value-added tax further solidifies the country’s appeal for crypto entrepreneurs and investors.
The UAE’s regulatory clarity, driven by entities like the Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA), and its proactive stance on innovation have attracted major crypto firms such as Binance, Crypto.com, and Bybit. Dubai’s reputation as a magnet for top crypto companies and talent from around the world continues to grow, fueled by clear regulations, government support, and high-profile blockchain events.
A new era for residency by crypto
TON’s Golden Visa program represents a significant step towards integrating crypto into the real world, making long-term UAE residency more accessible and transparent through blockchain technology. As the UAE solidifies its position as a leader in blockchain and digital assets, initiatives like this are poised to drive further adoption of crypto technologies.
In conclusion, the TON Golden Visa program marks an exciting development in the intersection of crypto and traditional residency, offering a glimpse into a future where blockchain technology plays a central role in global mobility and investment opportunities.