IN a bold and polarising move, the Trump administration officially launched the “Trump Gold Card” visa programme on Wednesday, offering non-U.S. citizens a fast-tracked route to live and work in the United States — for a substantial financial price.
Reuters reported today that the initiative, hosted on a dedicated government-style website, Trumpcard.gov, allows applicants to begin the process by paying a US$15,000 processing fee to the Department of Homeland Security.
Following a background check and vetting procedure, prospective participants are required to make a further “contribution” ofUS$1 million, described on the website as a “gift,” in order to secure the visa, which closely resembles a traditional Green Card.
“Basically it’s a Green Card, but much better. Much more powerful, a much stronger path,” former President Donald Trump told reporters at the White House. “A path is a big deal. Have to be great people.”
Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, speaking to Reuters, stated that approximately 10,000 individuals had pre-registered for the gold card and anticipated “thousands” more would sign up, generating billions of dollars for the U.S.
Treasury over time. Lutnick argued that the programme would attract high-earning individuals who would contribute positively to the American economy.
He contrasted this with what he described as “average” Green Card holders, claiming they earned less than the typical American and were more likely to rely on public assistance, although he offered no evidence to support the assertion.
The gold card initiative stands in stark contrast to other Trump administration immigration policies, which have included a sweeping crackdown on undocumented migrants and measures intended to reduce legal immigration.
This programme, officials say, is designed to attract affluent individuals and corporate talent, mirroring the former president’s broader strategy of leveraging business and economic tools, much as his tariff programmes sought to generate revenue.
A corporate version of the gold card also allows companies to secure expedited visas for foreign employees at a contribution of US$2 million per person, a move aimed at facilitating high-value talent relocation to the United States.
The launch of the Trump Gold Card programme has sparked debate over whether expedited residency should be accessible primarily to those who can afford the high financial threshold, raising questions about equity, legality, and the future direction of U.S. immigration policy. - December 11, 2025
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