Trump Unveils “Gold Card” Plan to Keep Foreign Grads in the US

President Donald Trump launched a new immigration initiative this week. The so-called “Trump Gold Card” was announced at a White House roundtable. The program aims to let companies sponsor talented foreign graduates to stay in America.

The move addresses a long-standing complaint from U.S. businesses. They often lose top international talent after graduation due to visa hurdles. According to Reuters, the administration frames it as a way to retain global talent and raise federal revenue.

How the New Immigration “Gift” Works

The program offers a path to citizenship for sponsored individuals. For a corporation, sponsoring an employee costs two million dollars. An individual can apply for themselves for one million dollars.

Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick outlined the process. Each card sponsors one person. Applicants undergo a rigorous vetting process costing $15,000.

Those who pass vetting can stay and work for their sponsoring company. After five years, they become eligible for U.S. citizenship. The administration calls the card a “gift” to the nation.

A Direct Response to “Brain Drain”

President Trump explicitly criticized the current system. He said it was a shame to force top graduates to leave. He mentioned India, China, and France as examples of countries where students must return.

Under current rules, students on F-1 visas have limited time to find H-1B sponsorship. This new card aims to provide a more stable alternative. It allows companies to directly retain needed talent from prestigious schools.

The policy is positioned as a win for American competitiveness. It aims to stop what some call a “brain drain.” The funds raised are slated for federal government use.

The “Trump Gold Card” proposal represents a significant shift in business immigration policy. It creates a premium, paid pathway for companies to secure foreign talent. Its reception in Congress and the business community will determine its ultimate impact.

Thought you’d like to know

Q1: What is the Trump Gold Card?

It is a new immigration proposal announced by President Trump. It allows U.S. companies or wealthy individuals to sponsor a foreign national for a path to citizenship. The cost is $2 million for a corporate sponsorship or $1 million for an individual.

Q2: Who is eligible for the Gold Card?

The program targets high-achieving graduates from U.S. universities. It is designed for individuals whom companies want to retain but who face visa limitations. All applicants must pass a strict security and background vetting.

Q3: How does this differ from a Green Card?

The Gold Card is described as having “big advantages” over a traditional Green Card. It provides a faster, more direct route tied to employment and investment. The administration claims it streamlines the process for pre-vetted, high-value talent.

Q4: What was President Trump’s main argument for the card?

He argued it is “ridiculous” that the U.S. educates top students then forces them to leave. He cited graduates returning to India and China as a loss of talent. The card is meant to help American companies retain that talent.

Q5: What happens after someone gets a Gold Card?

The sponsored individual can live and work in the United States for their sponsor. After a period of five years, they become eligible to apply for U.S. citizenship. The card is tied to the sponsoring entity for that duration.