The “Gold Card” is a newly announced visa/residency scheme under the Trump administration, intended to offer an expedited path to U.S. lawful permanent residency (a “green card”) for foreign nationals who make a large unrestricted gift (i.e. nonrefundable payment) to the U.S. government, rather than the traditional capital investment + job creation model (like EB-5).
The program, however, still requires Congressional approval before it can take effect.
What is Proposed / Known
Both programs are contribution-based (non-refundable “gift” to the U.S. government) rather than the traditional capital-investment + job-creation model.
Implementation is contingent on Congressional approval and final regulations.
Trump Gold Card
ProposedCost / Contribution
- US$ 1,000,000 for individuals
- US$ 2,000,000 if a corporation sponsors the gift
Purpose of the contribution
The payment is treated as a “gift to the Department of Commerce” and deposited into a separate Treasury fund to promote U.S. commerce and industry.
What is offered in return
- Expedited eligibility for an immigrant visa (green card) under existing categories (e.g., EB-1 / EB-2 or national interest waiver)
- Lawful permanent residence (“green card”) if approved
Trump Platinum Card
Pending rolloutCost / Contribution
- US$ 5,000,000 for individuals
Purpose of the contribution
The payment is treated as a “gift to the Department of Commerce” and deposited into a separate Treasury fund to promote U.S. commerce and industry.
What is offered in return
- Up to 270 days/year U.S. residency
- Tax exemption on non-U.S. income (for the time spent under U.S. stay) is a key advertised benefit
- Status beyond that and full permanent residence is less clear pending final rules
Gold Card vs. EB-5 Visa
Initially, the Gold Card was presented as a potential replacement for the existing EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program. This initial approach sparked debate regarding its possible impact on the U.S. investor visa. Since then, the government has shifted its narrative to suggest that the Gold Card would coexist with the U.S. EB-5 investor visa.
Frequently Asked Questions
How will the Gold Card impact the EB-5 visa program?
Initially, the Gold Card was presented as a potential replacement for the existing EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program. This initial approach sparked debate regarding its possible impact on the U.S. investor visa. Since then, the government has shifted its narrative to suggest that the Gold Card would coexist with the U.S. investor visa.
What is the status of the EB-5 visa today?
The EB-5 program is currently active. The Trump Administration requires Congressional approval to eliminate the EB-5 visa program before its official sunset date on September 30, 2027, as established by its reauthorization through the Reform and Integrity Act of 2022 (RIA).
Why is this new visa attractive to wealthy foreign investors?
The new visa provides U.S. residency, a pathway to citizenship, and potential taxation benefits. U.S. Gold Card holders will not be required to pay any tax on income earned outside the United States, highlighting a significant tax advantage compared to traditional green card holders and U.S. citizens.
Where can foreign investors acquire the Gold Card?
The official website for the U.S. Gold Card visa program is trumpcard.gov. As of now, the site only allows interested foreign investors to register for information about purchasing the card.
What must investors do to register?
Visitors can enter their personal information, including their name, region, and email address, in a form to receive notifications when applications for this program become available. Once the investor fills out the form, they will receive a verification code via email.
When will applications open?
An official date is yet to be announced. But you can visit Trumpcard.gov and get on the interest list. Foreign investors are unable to apply for a U.S. Gold Card at this time until further notice from the government.
Who can apply?
The program is open to wealthy individuals from any country who can meet the $1 million investment requirement and pass a comprehensive background vetting process.
At present, there are no reports of specific nationality, age, gender, or residency requirements. However, a recent U.S. visa and travel ban against 12 countries would exclude investors from those nations.
Gold Card Status
The Trump Gold Card represents a significant shift in U.S. immigration policy for wealthy investors, offering a streamlined, high-investment pathway to American residency and citizenship. While the program promises substantial revenue generation and enhanced benefits for qualified applicants, potential participants should await official implementation details and seek professional legal guidance before proceeding.
Disclaimer: This information is based on public statements and announcements. Official program details, requirements, and procedures should be verified through U.S. immigration authorities and qualified legal counsel.
