The Trump administration has launched the Trump Gold Card visa program, offering a fast-tracked pathway to live in the United States. The initiative targets high-income applicants willing to pay a substantial amount for expedited residency benefits.
A High-Cost Route Toward U.S. Residency
Applicants begin the process by paying a $15,000 processing fee to the Department of Homeland Security through the official programme website. After completing background checks, they must make a $1 million contribution to qualify for the new visa. This card functions similarly to a U.S. Green Card, allowing holders to live and work in the country.
President Donald Trump described the Gold Card as a superior alternative. He said the program offers “a stronger and more powerful path” for individuals seeking long-term residency. He emphasized that applicants must meet strict standards throughout the vetting process.
Strong Early Demand for the Gold Card
According to officials, interest in the program has been high. An estimated 10,000 applicants joined during its pre-registration phase. More applicants are expected as global interest grows. Authorities anticipate the program will generate billions of dollars in revenue over time.
Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick stated that the initiative aims to attract individuals who can contribute to U.S. economic growth. He highlighted that the Gold Card targets people with higher income levels. However, he offered no supporting evidence for claims comparing average earnings of typical Green Card holders with those of U.S. citizens.
Positioning the Gold Card as a Revenue Generator
The Gold Card program is being presented as a financial strategy to increase revenue for the U.S. Treasury. The administration believes this initiative aligns with broader economic goals while maintaining a strict immigration stance.
Despite pursuing tougher immigration measures, the administration views the Gold Card as a balanced approach that supports selective legal immigration. The program offers a pathway for individuals who can provide financial value while meeting required standards.
Corporate Version Offers Expedited Worker Visas
Alongside the individual visa option, a corporate version of the Gold Card is available. Companies can secure fast-track visas for employees by making a $2 million contribution per worker. This aims to attract businesses seeking quicker processing for specialized international personnel.
A Significant Shift in U.S. Immigration Priorities
The introduction of the Gold Card marks a notable shift in how the United States positions its immigration strategy. It emphasizes selective entry for high-net-worth individuals while maintaining stricter policies for others. This dual approach reflects the administration’s attempt to balance economic gains with strong border enforcement.
As the program rolls out, interest will likely grow among global investors seeking rapid entry into the U.S. The Gold Card may reshape residency pathways by prioritizing financial contributions and expedited processing.
