Trump Launches $1 Million ‘Gold Card’ Visa: Fast-Track US Citizenship for the Wealthy
Trump Introduces $1 Million ‘Gold Card’ Visa for Wealthy Immigrants
Former US President Donald Trump has unveiled a controversial new program offering fast-track US visas to wealthy foreigners. The scheme, called the Trump Gold Card, allows individuals to pay at least $1 million for a “direct path to US citizenship,” according to Trump’s social media announcement.
“This is so exciting! Our Great American companies can finally retain invaluable talent,” Trump said, emphasizing that the card will attract high-level professionals who can contribute to the economy.
How the Gold Card Works
The Trump Gold Card is designed for wealthy applicants who can prove they will provide a “substantial benefit” to the United States. The main features include:
- $1 million visa fee: Required for individual applicants to qualify.
- Business sponsorship: Companies can sponsor employees for $2 million plus additional fees.
- Platinum option: A premium $5 million card offering special tax breaks.
- Processing fee: A non-refundable $15,000 payment required before the application review.
According to the official website, the Gold Card promises US residency “in record time” and a streamlined path to citizenship for qualified applicants.
Trump’s Vision: Wealth, Jobs, and Productivity
Trump emphasized that the scheme targets “high-level professionals” who can contribute to the economy.
“The people who can pay $5 million are going to create jobs,” Trump said, calling it “a bargain” for the country. Unlike traditional green cards, which allow immigrants of various income levels to live and work in the US and become eligible for citizenship after five years, the Gold Card specifically focuses on wealthy individuals who are expected to bring economic benefits.
Controversy and Criticism
The Gold Card has faced criticism from political opponents since its announcement in February. Critics argue that it favors the wealthy while ordinary immigrants face stricter restrictions.
Some Democrats have called the program unfair, pointing out that it prioritizes money over merit. Others worry it could widen the gap between rich and ordinary immigrants, undermining traditional US immigration principles.
Meanwhile, Trump’s broader immigration policies remain strict, including:
- Work visa fee hikes: The H-1B visa program now requires a $100,000 fee for overseas applicants.
- Deportation drive: The administration continues to focus resources on deporting undocumented migrants.
- Travel bans: Immigration applications from 19 countries, mostly in Africa and the Middle East, have been paused.
- Asylum review: Thousands of asylum cases approved under the Biden administration are under review.
Who Can Benefit from the Gold Card?
The program is aimed at individuals with significant financial resources who are ready to invest in the US economy. Businesses can also benefit by sponsoring skilled foreign workers, gaining access to high-level talent while contributing to job creation.
According to Trump, the program will “sell like crazy,” and he expects it to attract global professionals eager to secure US citizenship quickly.
The Bigger Picture
The Gold Card is part of a larger strategy by the Trump administration to control immigration while attracting wealth and talent. It represents a shift from traditional green card processes and is positioned as a premium, exclusive option for high-net-worth individuals.
While the program may appeal to some investors and entrepreneurs, it raises questions about fairness, accessibility, and the future of US immigration policy.
