President Donald Trump has introduced a new initiative called the ‘gold card,’ offering a legal pathway to U.S. citizenship for individuals willing to invest $1 million. The program was launched on Wednesday, December 10, with a website now accepting applications as Trump unveiled the plan at the White House alongside business leaders.
Before the launch, Trump announced on Truth Social that the ‘Trump Gold Card’ provides a direct route to citizenship for qualified individuals. The initiative aims to replace the existing EB-5 visas, which were established in 1990 to attract foreign investment by requiring a $1 million investment in a company employing at least 10 people.
Individuals can apply for Trump’s visa by investing the full amount, while corporations will need to contribute up to double the sum per foreign employee. Trump believes this updated program will help the U.S. attract and retain top talent while boosting federal revenue.
All funds collected through the program will be directed to the U.S. government, with Trump expecting billions to flow into a Treasury Department account for national benefit. This initiative essentially offers a green card, granting permanent residency and a potential pathway to citizenship. Trump described it as a superior alternative to a traditional green card, offering a more robust and secure route.
Notably, Trump did not specify job creation requirements for participating companies or set limits on the program, unlike the current EB-5 program. He highlighted the challenge faced by businesses in recruiting talented graduates from U.S. universities who are international students and lack authorization to work in the country.
Trump emphasized the need for businesses to have certainty in hiring skilled individuals, especially those from reputable educational institutions.