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Trump Launches $1 Million Visa Gold Card for Immigrants
US President Donald Trump has unveiled a new visa initiative that will offer fast-tracked US residency to wealthy foreigners who can pay at least $1 million (£750,000). Dubbed the “Trump Gold Card,” the scheme promises expedited residency and a direct path to US citizenship for individuals who can demonstrate they will provide a “substantial benefit” to the country.
In a social media post, Trump hailed the initiative as a way to attract “invaluable talent” to the United States, stating, “Our Great American Companies can finally keep their invaluable Talent.” The card, first announced earlier this year, is aimed at “high-level” professionals, with applicants required to pay the $1 million fee, demonstrating their ability to substantially contribute to the economy.
Businesses that sponsor employees for the Gold Card must pay $2 million, with additional fees depending on the applicant’s situation. A “platinum” version of the card, offering special tax breaks, will soon be available for $5 million. A non-refundable $15,000 processing fee will also be required before applications are reviewed.
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The scheme has faced criticism, particularly from Democrats, who argue that it disproportionately favours the wealthy. The Gold Card is distinct from the green card, which allows permanent residency for immigrants from various income levels, typically leading to citizenship after five years. Trump emphasised that the Gold Card was specifically designed to attract those who can create jobs and contribute to the economy.
This new programme comes amid Trump’s broader immigration crackdown, which includes raising work visa fees, halting asylum applications, and reviewing thousands of cases approved under President Joe Biden’s administration. The US also continues to enforce a travel ban on citizens from 19 countries, mostly in Africa and the Middle East.
The introduction of the Gold Card follows Trump’s signing of an order in September to charge a $100,000 fee for new applicants of the H-1B visa programme, leading to concerns among overseas students and technology companies. However, the White House later clarified that the fee would only apply to new applicants from abroad.
