Trump’s $1 Million Gold Card Visa: A New Pathway to U.S. Residency Takes Shape

The U.S. government is moving forward with a new “Gold Card” visa program. This initiative would grant permanent residency to foreign nationals who donate $1 million to the U.S. Treasury. The proposal aims to replace the existing EB-5 investor visa program.

According to Reuters, the draft application form for this program is now under federal review. This marks a significant step in formalizing the policy announced by the Trump administration.

Policy Shift and Financial Objectives

The Gold Card plan is designed to overhaul the current EB-5 visa system. The EB-5 program has long faced criticism for fraud and operational inefficiencies. It requires investments in specific U.S. businesses and job creation.

Howard Lutnick, the U.S. Secretary of Commerce, has been a vocal critic of the old system. He previously stated the EB-5 program is “full of nonsense, make-believe and fraud.” The Gold Card is presented as a more direct and secure alternative.

How the Gold Card Application Process Works

Applicants must navigate a multi-stage process. It begins with a formal request to the U.S. Department of Commerce. A non-refundable $15,000 application fee is required at this initial stage.

The next step involves filing a Form I-140G with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This form requires a declaration of the source of funds. Applicants must prove their money comes from a lawful origin.

Once approved, the applicant typically must complete consular processing overseas. They are then admitted as lawful permanent residents. Guidance on adjusting status for applicants already in the U.S. is still pending final clarification.

Broader Impact and a Premium Tier

This policy could significantly alter U.S. immigration dynamics. It prioritizes individual wealth as a primary criterion for residency. According to CNBC, the lower price point has already generated substantial global interest from wealthy individuals.

Reports from Forbes also indicate a more exclusive “Platinum Card” is being considered. This tier would require a $5 million contribution. It would offer extended U.S. stay periods and favorable tax treatment on foreign income.

The introduction of the Gold Card visa represents a fundamental shift in U.S. immigration policy, directly linking permanent residency to a financial contribution.

Thought you’d like to know

What is the main difference between the Gold Card and the EB-5 visa?

The Gold Card requires a direct $1 million donation to the U.S. Treasury. The EB-5 visa mandates an investment in a commercial enterprise that creates U.S. jobs. The Gold Card streamlines the process by removing the business and job creation requirements.

How much does the Trump Gold Card visa cost?

The cost is $1 million for an individual applicant. There is also a non-refundable $15,000 application fee that must be paid separately. Corporate-sponsored applications have a reported cost of $2 million.

What are the main criticisms of the Gold Card program?

Critics argue the program commodifies U.S. citizenship, favoring wealth over merit or family ties. Policy analysts, like those from the Migration Policy Institute, have described it as a “pay-to-play” model for residency that could disadvantage skilled professionals.

Who is eligible to apply for the Gold Card?

Eligibility is primarily based on the ability to make the financial contribution and prove the funds are from a lawful source. The applicant must also pass standard security and background vetting conducted by U.S. immigration authorities.

What happens to the EB-5 program if the Gold Card is implemented?

The Gold Card program is intended to replace the EB-5 investor visa program. Administration officials have stated the goal is to end the EB-5 program due to its perceived flaws and inefficiencies.

Trusted Sources

Reuters, CNBC, Forbes, The Washington Post, Bloomberg Law, Fragomen, Migration Policy Institute.