In The $5 Million “Gold Card” to Obtain Lawful Permanent Residence (LPR) in the U.S., we reviewed the Trump Administration’s proposed “gold card” program. Recently, President Trump’s Administration unveiled its site for applicants to register interest for the $5 million gold card which promises a path to citizenship.
The proposed “$5 million gold card” is a program offering permanent U.S. residency to wealthy foreign nationals for a payment of $5 million. The Trump administration has framed this initiative as a fast track to U.S. citizenship and a way to attract wealthy investors to the country. The Trump Administration launched a website, www.TrumpCard.gov, so individuals interested in the gold card can register for the program.
The Trump Administration has not provided details on how the program works. However, members of the administration have mentioned some of the key details about the “Trump Card” or “Gold Card”, indicating that will require:
- A one-time payment of $5 million is required from foreign nationals seeking permanent U.S. residency through this program.
- The program aims to attract wealthy individuals to the U.S. who would potentially contribute significantly to the economy through spending, taxes, and job creation.
- The gold card offers permanent residency status in the U.S., like a traditional green card. It also provides a pathway to U.S. citizenship.
- The gold card would replace the existing EB-5 immigrant investor visa program, which requires lower investment amounts ($800,000 to $1.05 million) and includes a job creation requirement.
- The gold card, as announced, does not require job creation.
- Gold card applicants will be vetted.
However, serious concerns have been raised regarding the legality of the program. A new visa program normally requires Congressional approval. Some legal experts argue that Trump cannot unilaterally implement such a program. Other important concerns include whether the expedited nature of a premium visa might compromise thorough background checks. The program will definitely face legal and procedural hurdles.
It is important to note, especially for applicants, that paying $5 million does not guarantee immediate U.S. citizenship. The gold card offers a path to U.S. citizenship, but the timeframe and specific requirements for naturalization haven’t been fully detailed. Details about the program are still emerging. White House officials have promised additional details in the coming weeks.