The Trump Gold Card is a new fast-track U.S. residency visa program launched by President Donald Trump in 2025, designed for wealthy individuals who can make a significant financial contribution to the United States. It offers an expedited path to permanent resident status and eventual U.S. citizenship for those able to pay a $1 million “gift” to the government after passing rigorous vetting. Applications start with a nonrefundable processing fee, followed by vetting from Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
What is the Trump Gold Card?
The Trump Gold Card visa is a premium immigration program that aims to attract high-net-worth individuals, investors, and entrepreneurs by providing them a swift residency route in return for substantial economic benefit to the U.S. Unlike the traditional green card process, which can take years, the Gold Card promises record-time adjudication. Recipients gain lawful permanent resident status, equivalent to EB-1 or EB-2 visa categories, placing them on a clear path to American citizenship. The card is visually styled like a luxury gold credit card featuring Trump’s portrait, the Statue of Liberty, and the U.S. flag.
Eligibility and Application Process
| Step/Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Initial Requirement | Non-refundable processing fee of approx. $15,000 |
| Background Checks | Conducted by Department of Homeland Security and other agencies |
| Approval Criteria | Must demonstrate substantial benefit to the U.S., mainly via investment |
| Financial Contribution | $1 million “gift” to the U.S. Treasury upon acceptance |
| Nature of Contribution | Defined as a gift, not an investment, aimed at benefiting national interests |
Different Tiers: Gold Card, Corporate Gold Card, and Platinum Card
The Trump administration has introduced a tiered visa system to accommodate different applicant types. Besides the individual Trump Gold Card costing $1 million, there is a Corporate Gold Card priced at $2 million designed for companies wishing to sponsor foreign employees. This corporate card allows businesses to transfer residency rights among employees with annual fees and further vetting. Another upcoming option, the Trump Platinum Card, demands a $5 million contribution and offers significant tax benefits, such as the ability to reside in the U.S. for up to 270 days annually without paying taxes on worldwide income. The Platinum Card is pending congressional approval and promises to attract ultra-wealthy investors with global income streams.
Benefits and Future Implications
Once granted, holders of the Trump Gold Card can live and work freely throughout all 50 states without the usual lengthy visa restrictions. The program replaces the existing EB-1 and EB-2 visa categories, marking a significant shift in U.S. immigration policy geared toward attracting capital and high-ability immigrants quickly. The administration expects the program to generate billions in revenue to help reduce the national deficit, fund pro-growth projects, and support commerce. The rollout began with widespread interest, with tens of thousands expected to apply, reflecting the eagerness of global investors to take advantage of this expedited residency scheme.
How to Apply and Final Thoughts
Prospective applicants can begin the process online at the official Trump Gold Card website, where they pay the initial processing fee and submit required documents for consideration. Due to high demand and careful vetting, the application process is competitive, with approvals granted on a first-come, first-served basis. Critics have raised concerns about accessibility and the overall impact on immigration fairness, but supporters highlight the program’s potential to invigorate the U.S. economy through foreign investment and job creation. The Trump Gold Card represents a bold new chapter in American immigration policy, blending financial contribution with expedited residency rights.