U.S. President Donald Trump has unveiled plans to introduce a “gold card” immigration program, allowing wealthy investors to obtain U.S. citizenship for $5 million.
The initiative is set to replace the existing EB-5 investor visa, which has long been a pathway for foreign nationals seeking permanent residency through investment.
Announcing the plan at the Oval Office, Trump emphasized its economic potential, stating, “It’s going to give you green card privileges plus it’s going to be a route to citizenship, and wealthy people would be coming into our country by buying this card.”
The EB-5 program, which was created by Congress in 1990, currently grants green cards to individuals who invest at least $1 million in U.S. businesses that create a minimum of 10 jobs.
However, under the new gold card system, the investment requirement would rise significantly, aiming to attract high-net-worth individuals who can contribute to the economy on a larger scale.
Economic Benefits and Policy Goals
Trump highlighted that the gold card would not only bring in wealthy investors but also create job opportunities, stating, “They’ll be wealthy and they’ll be successful, and they’ll be spending a lot of money and paying a lot of taxes and employing a lot of people.”
Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick confirmed that the transition from the EB-5 visa to the gold card system would take place within two weeks.
He also stressed that the move is designed to eliminate fraud and inefficiencies that have plagued the existing program, noting that the new policy would provide a more transparent and streamlined process.
Lutnick described the gold card as an advanced version of the green card, offering a “higher level of sophistication” and a clear path to citizenship.
In addition, he explained that companies could also use the program to sponsor individuals with exceptional talent, creating an alternative route for skilled professionals.
While the EB-5 program has a limited number of available visas, Trump suggested that the gold card system could be expanded significantly.
He proposed issuing up to 10 million gold cards to generate revenue and reduce the national deficit.
“It could be great, maybe it will be fantastic,” he said, expressing optimism about the program’s success.
According to the latest data from the Department of Homeland Security, approximately 8,000 people received investor visas in the fiscal year ending September 30, 2022.
With the gold card program raising the financial threshold for applicants, the administration expects a surge in high-value investments.
Further details on the policy are expected in the coming weeks.
Meanwhile, discussions continue on how the program will be implemented and whether it will receive the necessary legislative support.
If successful, the gold card initiative could mark a major shift in U.S. immigration policy by prioritizing economic contribution as a key factor for citizenship eligibility.
