TON Clarifies 'Golden Visa' Plan Amid UAE Pushback

- TON Foundation’s residency proposal is an independent initiative, not an official UAE program. - UAE authorities deny digital assets as a basis for the official Golden Visa, impacting Toncoin's market momentum. On July 7, 2025, The Block reported that the TON Foundation clarified its "Golden Visa" plan, stating its proposed 10-year residency pathway for Toncoin investors in the UAE lacks formal endorsement or collaboration with the country's regulatory entities. The initiative, which is still in its exploratory phase, would reportedly require investors to stake $100,000 in Toncoin and pay a $35,000 fee to qualify. In response, several UAE government entities—including the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security; the Securities and Commodities Authority; and the Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority—issued a joint statement. The authorities affirmed that existing regulations do not recognize digital asset investments as valid criteria for the UAE's official Golden Visa program, underscoring that visa approvals rely solely on government discretion and official policy standards. Consequently, they advised investors to rely exclusively on government-issued information regarding residency options. The TON Foundation described its proposal as an independent initiative developed in collaboration with Peravel, a licensed, blockchain-focused travel partner. The foundation added that they aim to explore blockchain applications for residency pathways while ensuring full compliance with existing laws. Initially, news of the program created positive market momentum for Toncoin; however, this momentum faltered after the UAE authorities issued their statement. While the plan had showcased a blockchain-based alternative to traditional residency models, Toncoin continues to face challenges as this concept remains in its early stages. As of 18:11 UTC on July 7, Toncoin (TON) traded at $2.772, marking a 4.89% dip in the past 24 hours.