In an announcement on February 25, 2025, President Donald Trump unveiled plans for a “Trump Gold Card,” a new visa initiative aimed at wealthy investors. This program, set to replace the 35-year-old EB-5 visa, offers permanent residency and a pathway to U.S. citizenship for a $5 million fee. Unlike the EB-5, which requires a $1 million investment in a job-creating business, the Gold Card, focuses instead on attracting affluent individuals. Trump touted the initiative as a way to bring in “wealthy and successful” people who will spend heavily, pay taxes, and boost the economy. He noted that such individuals would not need to pay tax on income generated outside the United States, which, if true, would make a significant departure from current practice for green card holders.
Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick stated the program, launching in two weeks, aims to curb fraud and inefficiencies plaguing the EB-5 system, which granted around 8,000 visas annually. Trump suggested selling up to 10 million Gold Cards, potentially raising billions to reduce the federal deficit, calling it a “fantastic” opportunity. The card, essentially an enhanced green card, could also allow companies to sponsor talented individuals, blending wealth and skill-based immigration.
The proposal has sparked debate. Critics see it as a “pay-to-play” scheme favoring the rich, while supporters argue it aligns with global “golden visa” trends in over 100 countries. Applicants will be required to go through some level of “vetting” before being awarded the gold card, but what this would entail is not yet clear. Trump even hinted Russian oligarchs might qualify, raising eyebrows. Details remain sparse, and though Trump claims congressional approval isn’t needed, legal challenges could loom.
The U.S. “Gold Card” visa, also referred to as the “Trump Gold Card,” is a proposed program announced by President Donald Trump in February 2025 to replace the EB-5 investor visa. It offers permanent residency and a pathway to citizenship for a $5 million investment, aimed at attracting wealthy foreigners to boost the U.S. economy. As of June 17, 2025, the program is in early stages, with a government website, TrumpCard.gov, launched to register interest. Over 70,000 individuals have reportedly signed up, per Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick.
Steps to Register:
1. Visit TrumpCard.gov: Submit your name, email, region, and specify if applying as an individual or business.
2. Await Notification: The site collects interest for updates on when applications open.
3. Prepare Documentation: Gather proof of $5 million in legal, traceable funds and valid identification. (Note that regulations on this have not yet been issued, so it is unclear what will be necessary. However, it can be expected that it will be similar to other current US investment visas).
4. Monitor Updates: Check USCIS or State Department announcements for application forms and vetting details, as procedures are still developing.
The program awaits full implementation, potentially requiring congressional approval, and details on vetting and tax exemptions remain unclear. Timing of the policy details or implementation remain unclear. Note that as little has been released regarding the legal aspects of this application, you should not rely on this program or take any concrete steps until such regulations are released. Please feel free to contact our office to set a consultation to discuss.
