New 'Gold Card' Program Unveiled
The United States has officially launched its new 'Trump Gold Card' visa program, providing a fast-track pathway to U.S. residency for wealthy foreign nationals. Applications for the program went live on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, following an executive order signed by President Donald Trump on September 19, 2025. The initiative is designed to attract global talent and generate significant revenue for the federal government.
Financial Requirements and Benefits
Under the new program, individuals seeking expedited immigration can secure a 'Gold Card' by making a US$1 million 'gift' to the federal government, in addition to a non-refundable US$15,000 processing fee paid to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). For companies looking to sponsor workers, the cost is US$2 million per employee, also accompanied by the US$15,000 processing fee.
Successful applicants will receive either an EB-1 or EB-2 visa, leading to a green card and a potential path to U.S. citizenship. The administration states that the processing time for these applications is expected to be significantly shorter than traditional routes, potentially taking only weeks.
Distinction from EB-5 Visa Program
The 'Trump Gold Card' program marks a significant departure from the existing EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program, which has been in place since 1990. Unlike the EB-5 visa, which requires foreign investors to make substantial investments in U.S. businesses that create or preserve at least 10 full-time jobs for American workers, the 'Gold Card' program does not mandate job creation. Instead, it focuses on a direct financial contribution to the U.S. government.
The EB-5 program typically requires an investment of US$1,050,000, or US$800,000 in targeted employment areas (TEAs), with the investment remaining 'at-risk' in a commercial enterprise. The 'Gold Card' simplifies this by accepting a direct, unrestricted financial gift.
Future Plans: The 'Platinum Card'
In addition to the 'Gold Card,' the administration has announced plans for a more exclusive 'Trump Platinum Card.' This proposed visa, expected to cost US$5 million, would allow holders to spend up to 270 days annually in the U.S. without being subject to U.S. taxes on non-U.S. income. While details are still under development, a waiting list for the 'Platinum Card' has been made available.
Implications and Reception
President Trump has promoted the 'Gold Card' as a means to recruit individuals who, he argues, have been excluded by traditional visa channels, and as a way to generate billions in annual revenue for the country. However, the program has drawn criticism for potentially creating a two-tiered immigration system that prioritizes wealth. Questions have also been raised regarding the administration's legal authority to implement such significant changes to immigration policy without explicit congressional approval.
5 Comments
Raphael
The idea of attracting global talent quickly has merit for innovation, yet the exorbitant cost creates a clear two-tiered system. This could undermine public trust in immigration fairness and alienate those who contribute differently.
Leonardo
While attracting wealthy individuals could definitely bring in much-needed federal revenue, it raises serious ethical questions about whether residency should be purchasable. We risk devaluing the traditional immigration process.
Michelangelo
It's true that streamlining immigration for high-net-worth individuals might boost certain sectors, but bypassing job creation requirements feels like a missed opportunity. The focus should still be on tangible economic benefit, not just direct payments.
Leonardo
A 'gold card' for the elite while others suffer. This isn't what America stands for.
Michelangelo
So, citizenship is for sale now? Disgusting and undemocratic.