Trump’s $5 Million ‘Platinum Card’ Offers Fast-Track US Residency, Bypassing H-1B Visa Hurdles

The Trump administration is launching new high-cost residency programs. These initiatives target wealthy foreign nationals. They are called the ‘Gold Card’ and ‘Platinum Card’.

These programs offer a shortcut to US residency. They come alongside stricter rules for work visas like the H-1B. According to Bloomberg, this forms part of a broader immigration strategy.

What the Premium Residency Cards Provide

The ‘Gold Card’ program is already active. It requires a $15,000 processing fee and a $1 million contribution. Successful applicants receive US residency in an accelerated timeframe.

A corporate version also exists for sponsored employees. The official Trump Card website details the process. It involves background checks and an interview after payment.

The newer ‘Platinum Card’ demands a $5 million contribution. It offers the ability to stay in the US for up to nine months annually. Crucially, holders are not subject to US taxes on their foreign income.

Context and Impact on US Immigration Landscape

This move contrasts with recent policies on skilled worker visas. The administration significantly raised H-1B visa fees last October. The cost for some companies jumped to $100,000.

The premium cards aim to attract investment and wealthy individuals. They create a separate, expedited pathway outside traditional immigration channels. This has sparked debate about equity in the US immigration system.

Analysts see this as a shift toward an investment-based model. It could reshape how high-net-worth individuals approach US residency. The long-term effects on immigration demographics are still unclear.

The introduction of the Trump Platinum Card represents a significant pivot in US immigration policy. It establishes a direct, premium route for global elites seeking American residency. This development underscores a growing emphasis on wealth in the nation’s approach to new residents.

Dropping this nugget your way-

Q1: How much does the Trump Platinum Card cost?

The Platinum Card requires a $5 million contribution plus a $15,000 processing fee. The official website warns this price may not remain fixed. Applicants are urged to join a waitlist to lock in the current rate.

Q2: How is this different from an H-1B visa?

The H-1B is a work visa for skilled professionals with a job offer. The Platinum Card is a residency-by-investment program with no US job required. It also offers significant tax advantages not available to H-1B holders.

Q3: What are the tax benefits of the Platinum Card?

Cardholders can stay in the US for up to 270 days a year without paying US taxes on income earned outside the country. This is a major incentive for wealthy global investors. It differs from standard tax rules for US residents.

Q4: Who is eligible for these premium cards?

Eligibility focuses on the ability to pay the required multi-million-dollar contribution. The process involves a background check and interview. Specific wealth or investment source details are outlined during the application review.

Q5: Is the Platinum Card available right now?

No, the Platinum Card program is not yet active. The official Trump Card website is accepting waitlist registrations. Applications will be processed immediately once the program launches.