President Donald Trump has unveiled a new initiative offering fast-tracked U.S. visas to affluent foreigners willing to invest at least $1 million.
Announced on social media Wednesday, Trump described the “Trump Gold Card” as providing a “direct path to citizenship for all qualified and vetted people,” adding that it would allow American companies to retain “invaluable talent.”
The Gold Card, first revealed earlier this year, targets high-net-worth individuals who can demonstrate that their presence will deliver “substantial benefit” to the United States, according to the program’s official website.
Applicants face a $1 million fee as proof of their potential contribution, with businesses sponsoring employees required to pay $2 million plus additional charges.
A platinum version, promising special tax advantages, is available for $5 million. All applicants must also pay a non-refundable $15,000 processing fee, with further government levies potentially applying depending on individual circumstances.
Critics have raised concerns that the programme disproportionately favours wealthy applicants.
Democrats have warned it could exacerbate inequality in the immigration system, which traditionally provides green cards to a broader range of individuals, including lower-income immigrants.
Trump emphasised that the Gold Card is intended for “high-level” professionals capable of generating jobs and economic growth.
“The people that can pay $5 million, they’re going to create jobs. It’s going to sell like crazy. It’s a bargain,” he said.
The launch occurs alongside intensified U.S. immigration restrictions, including higher work visa fees and deportation efforts.
The administration has paused immigration applications from 19 countries primarily in Africa and the Middle East, under Trump’s travel ban and has suspended asylum case decisions, reviewing approvals granted under the previous administration.
In September, Trump also signed an order imposing a $100,000 fee on new H-1B visa applicants, a move that caused concern among foreign students and technology firms, though the White House later clarified the fee applies only to overseas applicants.
The gold card programme reflects the administration’s dual approach of restricting general immigration while providing expedited access for wealthy, high-skilled entrants.
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