The Trump administration officially introduced its “Trump Gold Card” program. It offers wealthy foreign nationals a fast path to U.S. permanent residency for large financial contributions. The portal at trumpcard.gov went live this week. Applications began after an executive order in September.
President Donald Trump praised the launch on Truth Social: “The United States Government’s Trump Gold Card is here today! A direct path to Citizenship for all qualified and vetted people.”
How the Gold Visa Program Works
The main offering is simple:
- Applicants pay a non-refundable $15,000 processing fee to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
- U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) performs a security check. Approved individuals then make a $1 million contribution. This payment is a “gift” to show substantial benefit to the U.S.
- Applicants receive permanent residency under EB-1 or EB-2 visa categories. Processing takes “weeks” rather than years.
- Family members can join the application. This includes spouses and unmarried children under 21. Each person must pay separate fees and contributions.
Corporate and Premium Tiers
A “Trump Corporate Gold Card” targets businesses:
- Companies pay the $15,000 DHS fee plus $2 million per employee.
- Contributions are transferable to new employees for a 5% fee and new vetting. Companies can also maintain the slot with a 1% annual fee.
- Firms can “rapidly strengthen their presence in the United States” and keep high-value foreign talent.
A higher-tier “Trump Platinum Card” is accepting waitlist sign-ups:
- For $5 million, holders can spend up to 270 days per year in the U.S. They will not pay U.S. taxes on foreign-source income.
- People previously subject to U.S. worldwide taxation cannot apply. This includes current citizens or tax residents.
Platinum holders avoid full tax residency triggers. Standard permanent residents do not have this benefit.
Rationale and Projected Impact
The administration calls the residency program a source of revenue and a way to attract talent. All funds go directly to the government. This could raise “many billions” to reduce debt or fund national priorities. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick wants to attract “the top of the top.” He seeks successful entrepreneurs and executives to boost the economy.
This program builds on the existing EB-5 investor visa. Some say it replaces or modifies it. The new program removes job-creation requirements. It sends funds to the Treasury instead of private projects.
Early Controversy
The launch started a debate:
- Supporters like the focus on high-contribution immigrants. They say it helps U.S. companies compete for global talent.
- Critics say it turns citizenship into a product. They call it a “pay-to-play” system for the ultra-wealthy. The administration restricts other immigration pathways at the same time. Examples include asylum pauses, higher-skilled worker fees, and mass deportations.
Legal experts question the executive branch’s authority to create such a program without Congress. They note potential challenges regarding visa categories and tax provisions.
A New Era in U.S. Immigration?
Applications are open. Pre-registration numbers in the tens of thousands. The Gold Visa Card signals a shift. Money is now a primary path to the American dream. One observer noted a contrast with America’s historic image as a refuge for the “huddled masses.” The program aligns with “golden visa” models in other nations.
Courts may challenge the program. It may not deliver the promised revenue. But the program prioritizes wealth in the current immigration policy. Affluent foreigners eye U.S. opportunities. The gold door is open, and platinum opens soon.
