FIA Targets Undeclared Property in UAE
FIA Cracks Down on Undeclared Property in UAE Owned by Golden Visa Holders
Islamabad, June 30, 2025 – The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has launched a major crackdown on Pakistani nationals holding UAE golden visas who invested at least AED 2 million in property in UAE, but failed to declare them under Pakistan’s anti-money laundering and tax laws .
📌 What’s the Issue?
Thousands of Pakistanis hold 10‑year UAE golden visas, granted due to substantial property investments—typically AED 2 million or more .
Upon arrival, their UAE golden visa cards (showing name, passport number, “Property Owner” designation, and “Self Sponsor” status) are scanned by FIA immigration systems.
These scans are now being cross‑checked with wealth statements and income tax declarations in Pakistan .
🏠 Undeclared Assets & Tax Evasion
Many golden visa holders did not report their property in UAE, nor rental income or capital gains, in Pakistani tax filings.
They also evaded paying the Capital Value Tax (CVT) on foreign assets.
These investments were often funded through informal remittances or UAE bank accounts opened using residency ID, complicating financial tracking under the Automatic Exchange of Information (AEOI) treaty.
🤝 Legal & Tax Treaty Context
A tax treaty between Pakistan and the UAE permits data exchange. However, the UAE has reportedly not provided financial details related to these golden visa holders .
Since the UAE residency permit, not the Pakistani passport, is used to open local bank accounts, this impedes tax authorities’ ability to trace transactions .
👥 FIA’s Action Plan
Data Matching – Visa scan data matched against domestic wealth and income statements.
Notices Issued – Individuals with undeclared foreign assets are being issued notices and invited for audits.
Tax Recovery – FIA aims to recover unpaid CVT on unreported property in UAE, along with any due rental income or capital gains tax.
📝 Expert Advice
Tax professionals warn that Pakistan’s tax laws now have no statute of limitations on undeclared foreign assets. They stress:
Declare all property in UAE and overseas income promptly.
Stick to legal channels for foreign investments.
Use proper tax planning tools to avoid penalties and legal scrutiny.