President Donald Trump has introduced a new “Gold Card” visa programme that offers wealthy foreigners a fast-track route to US residency and eventual citizenship in exchange for a minimum payment of $1 million.
Announcing the launch on Wednesday, Trump said the card would give qualified and vetted applicants a “direct path to citizenship,” adding that it would help American companies retain “invaluable talent.”
According to the scheme’s official website, the Trump Gold Card is intended for individuals who can show they will provide a “substantial benefit” to the United States. The rollout comes as Washington steps up its broader immigration crackdown, including higher work visa fees and increased deportations of undocumented migrants.
The programme promises residency “in record time,” with the $1 million fee serving as proof of an applicant’s economic value. Companies sponsoring foreign workers must pay $2 million plus additional charges. A premium “platinum” card offering tax breaks will cost $5 million.
Applicants must also pay a non-refundable $15,000 processing fee before their application is reviewed. Additional government fees may apply based on individual circumstances.
The Gold Card website features the slogan “Unlock life in America,” alongside an image of the card bearing Trump’s photo.
The plan has drawn criticism since it was first announced in February, with Democrats arguing it favours the wealthy. Trump has compared the card to a green card but said it is aimed at “high-level” professionals.
“The people who can pay $5 million will create jobs,” Trump said. “It’s going to sell like crazy.”
The launch comes as the Trump administration expands enforcement measures, halting immigration applications from 19 countries under the travel ban and freezing all decisions on asylum cases approved during the Biden administration.
In September, Trump ordered a $100,000 fee for new overseas H-1B visa applicants, sparking concern among foreign students and tech companies. The White House later clarified the fee applies only to new applicants outside the US.
With inputs from BBC