Trump Unveils $1M “Gold Card” Visa for US Residency
US President Donald Trump has signed an executive order creating the Gold Card visa program, requiring a $1 million gift to the US Treasury by individuals, or $2 million if a corporation sponsors them. This program provides a fast-track to lawful permanent residency for wealthy foreign nationals.
Who Qualifies
The Gold Card is aimed at “extraordinary people at the very top,” according to Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick. Applicants must undergo vetting by the State Department and Department of Homeland Security. Existing employment-based green card categories, like EB-1 and EB-2, will be replaced by this new route.
Financial Goals & Policy Rationale
Trump says the program will raise over $100 billion that could go toward reducing taxes and paying down national debt. The administration argues that the program will encourage wealthy investors to bring business and job creation to the US, while tightening eligibility criteria and reducing what it sees as unfair uses of employment-based immigration.
Tied Changes in Immigration Policy
Alongside the Gold Card program, Trump has signed a proclamation imposing a $100,000 fee on H-1B visa applications. This marks a significant shift in the administration’s stance, seeking to make skilled worker visa access more restrictive while favoring economic contributions.
