US Golden Visa Demand Soars: 70,000 Applicants Target $1 Trillion Debt Reduction

The United States’ bold new residency program has ignited unprecedented global interest, with Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick confirming nearly 70,000 applicants have rushed to sign up for the premium “Gold Card” visa within days of its announcement. This exclusive initiative, personally championed by former President Donald Trump, aims to leverage wealthy foreign investment to slash America’s towering $36 trillion national debt while granting permanent residency.

Gold Card Visa: Unprecedented Early Interest

According to Lutnick’s internal dashboard data reported by Financial Times (June 2024), the program’s registration portal saw explosive demand immediately after launch. Within minutes of Lutnick’s initial statement citing 67,697 applicants, the number surged past 68,703—demonstrating real-time global appetite. The physical card itself, crafted from 24-karat gold, was explicitly designed for aesthetic appeal at Trump’s request.

“Donald Trump appreciates these kinds of things. He cares about how it looks. He cares about how it feels… if you’re going to make this investment in America, we should give you something beautiful,” Lutnick emphasized to Financial Times.

The program requires a $5 million minimum investment from applicants seeking permanent U.S. residency and work rights.

$1 Trillion Debt Reduction Strategy

The Gold Card initiative—brainchild of billionaire investor and Trump ally John Paulson—targets nothing less than reshaping America’s fiscal future. Lutnick revealed that issuing 200,000 visas could funnel $1 trillion into the U.S. Treasury. This aligns with the administration’s aggressive debt-reduction agenda. Recent diplomatic tours across Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE saw Lutnick personally pitching the program to Gulf leaders and investors.

“Whenever I meet international executives, I always sell it to them. I can’t help myself,” Lutnick admitted during a Middle East trip with Trump in May 2024.

Despite the rapid sign-ups, the White House is finalizing operational details, delaying the formal launch originally slated for “two weeks” after Lutnick’s March announcement on the All-In Podcast.

Global Wealth Migration Implications

The U.S. joins countries like Portugal and Greece in offering investment-based residency but at a significantly higher threshold. Experts suggest this premium positioning targets ultra-high-net-worth individuals seeking stability amid global volatility. With 70,000 expressions of interest already recorded—equivalent to 35% of the program’s decade-long target—demand could outstrip supply rapidly upon full rollout.

The Gold Card visa represents more than luxury—it’s a strategic bet that global capital can rebuild America’s financial foundation. For investors worldwide, this isn’t just residency; it’s a stake in America’s next chapter. Monitor official updates here as this landmark program evolves.

Must Know

Q: What is the US Gold Card visa?
A: A new residency-by-investment program requiring a $5 million minimum commitment. Successful applicants receive a physical gold card and permanent U.S. residency rights.

Q: How many people have applied so far?
A: Approximately 70,000 individuals registered interest within days of the portal’s launch, per U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick (Financial Times, June 2024).

Q: When will the Gold Card program officially open?
A: The White House is finalizing details. A summer 2024 rollout is anticipated despite earlier delays.

Q: How will this reduce U.S. debt?
A: The administration projects that 200,000 visas issued over 10 years would generate $1 trillion for debt reduction.

Q: Who conceived the Gold Card idea?
A: Billionaire John Paulson, a Trump supporter, proposed leveraging foreign investment to address national debt.

Q: Can families apply together under one investment?
A: While full guidelines are pending, similar U.S. investment visas typically include spouses and minor children.