President Donald Trump has launched a new “Gold Card” visa programme that provides affluent foreign nationals with expedited access to U.S. residency and eventual citizenship in exchange for a minimum investment of $1 million.
Announcing the inauguration on Wednesday, Trump stated that the card would provide qualified and vetted applicants with a “direct pathway to citizenship”, emphasising that it would assist American companies in retaining “valuable talent”.
According to the official website of the scheme, the Trump Gold Card is designated for individuals able to demonstrate that they will confer a “substantial benefit” to the United States. The implementation occurs as Washington intensifies its comprehensive immigration enforcement efforts, including elevated work visa fees and a rise in deportations of undocumented migrants.
The programme guarantees residency “in record time”, with the $1 million fee acting as evidence of an applicant’s economic contribution. Organisations sponsoring international employees are required to remit a sum of $2 million, along with any applicable supplementary fees. A premium “platinum” certificate providing tax incentives will have an associated cost of $5 million.
Applicants are also required to submit a non-refundable administrative fee of $15,000 prior to the review of their application. Additional government charges may be applicable depending on individual circumstances.
The Gold Card website displays the slogan “Unlock life in America”, accompanied by an image of the card featuring a photograph of Trump.
The proposal has faced criticism since its initial announcement in February, with Democrats contending that it benefits the affluent. Trump has likened the card to a green card but stated that it is intended for “high-level” executives.
“The individuals capable of contributing five million dollars will generate employment opportunities,” stated Trump. It is expected to sell rapidly.
The launch occurs amid the Trump administration’s intensified enforcement actions, which include suspending immigration applications from 19 countries under the travel ban and suspending all decisions on asylum cases approved during the Biden administration.
In September, Trump implemented a $100,000 fee for new international H-1B visa applicants, raising concerns among foreign students and technology companies. The White House subsequently clarified that the charge is applicable solely to new applicants outside the United States.
