US President Donald Trump has launched the long awaited gold card visa programme that offers legal residency and a route to citizenship for individuals and companies willing to pay a high investment amount. The initiative is presented as a replacement for the EB 5 investor visa system that has been in place for nearly 30 years. The new programme allows foreign nationals to secure permanent residency either through a personal investment of $1 million or through a $2 million employer backed investment.
Trump has promoted the gold card as a way to attract what he calls the world’s “best people,” including top graduates from US universities. He has also highlighted its potential to generate revenue for the federal government. The launch comes even as his administration continues strict immigration enforcement while arguing that exceptional foreign born talent should be allowed to stay in the country.
“THE UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT’S TRUMP GOLD CARD IS HERE TODAY! A direct path to Citizenship for all qualified and vetted people. SO EXCITING! Our Great American Companies can finally keep their invaluable Talent,” Trump said on Truth Social.
The gold card functions much like a green card but with a faster and more direct approach. Recipients gain permanent residency and can later pursue citizenship. The programme does not include the job creation requirements seen in the EB 5 route. Green Cards can be obtained through sponsorships, lotteries or EB 5 investments starting at $800000. The gold card requires a $5 million direct payment or in some cases a $1 million base version, allowing quicker processing. Successful applicants will fall under EB 1 or EB 2 categories depending on availability and Department of Homeland Security guidelines.
A $15000 vetting fee applies to every application. Commerce secretary Howard Lutnick said this ensures thorough background checks and high quality candidates. Trump said all proceeds will support national initiatives.
The programme does not mention job obligations, annual limits or caps. Each card applies to one employee which means companies must purchase separate cards for every individual they want to retain. While this model benefits well funded employers and wealthy applicants, it may not support smaller firms. The programme also does not resolve divisions within Trump’s political base where some oppose increases in legal immigration.
Also read: Viksit Workforce for a Viksit Bharat
Do Follow: The Mainstream formerly known as CIO News LinkedIn Account | The Mainstream formerly known as CIO News Facebook | The Mainstream formerly known as CIO News Youtube | The Mainstream formerly known as CIO News Twitter
About us:
The Mainstream is a premier platform delivering the latest updates and informed perspectives across the technology business and cyber landscape. Built on research-driven, thought leadership and original intellectual property, The Mainstream also curates summits & conferences that convene decision makers to explore how technology reshapes industries and leadership. With a growing presence in India and globally across the Middle East, Africa, ASEAN, the USA, the UK and Australia, The Mainstream carries a vision to bring the latest happenings and insights to 8.2 billion people and to place technology at the centre of conversation for leaders navigating the future.
