In a move that has sparked both intrigue and controversy, President Donald Trump recently unveiled the "Trump Gold Card," a $5 million visa program aimed at wealthy foreigners seeking U.S. residency. This initiative, positioned as a premium alternative to the existing EB-5 investor visa, offers affluent individuals a pathway to live and work in the United States, with the added allure of potential citizenship.​

What Is the Trump Gold Card?

In February 2025, President Donald Trump unveiled the “Gold Card,” a proposed visa program designed to attract wealthy foreign investors. For a cool $5 million, non-U.S. citizens can gain permanent residency in the United States, along with a pathway to citizenship. Think of it as a premium version of the traditional green card, offering "green card privileges-plus," as Trump described it.

The Gold Card is intended to replace the existing EB-5 investor visa program, which requires a lower investment threshold and has been criticized for its complexity and susceptibility to fraud.

Who’s Buying the Gold Card?

The Gold Card targets ultra-high-net-worth individuals—those with significant financial resources seeking residency in the U.S. President Trump has mentioned Russian oligarchs and wealthy foreigners as potential beneficiaries of the program.

Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick claimed that over 1,000 Gold Cards were sold in a single day, suggesting a strong demand among the global elite. However, these figures have been met with skepticism, and the actual number of sales remains unverified.

Why Are People Buying It?

For the ultra-wealthy, the Gold Card offers several enticing benefits:

• Residency and Citizenship: A direct path to live and work in the U.S., with the potential for full citizenship.
• Tax Advantages: President Trump stated that Gold Card holders "won't have to pay any tax on income outside of the United States," though the implementation of this benefit remains unclear and would require changes to U.S. tax law.
• Prestige and Mobility: Holding a U.S. residency can enhance personal and business opportunities, offering greater global mobility.
• Simplified Process: Compared to the EB-5 program, the Gold Card promises a more straightforward application process without the requirement to invest in specific businesses or projects.
  
  

How Is It Different from the EB-5 Visa?

The EB-5 visa program, established in 1990, allows foreign investors to obtain U.S. residency by investing $1.05 million (or $800,000 in targeted employment areas) in a U.S. business that creates or preserves at least 10 jobs for American workers. The process is complex and has been criticized for being prone to fraud.

In contrast, the Gold Card requires a $5 million payment directly to the U.S. government, with no specific investment or job creation requirements. This makes it more accessible to those who have the means but prefer a simpler route to residency.

Legal and Ethical Concerns

Despite its appeal to the wealthy, the Gold Card program has sparked significant controversy:

• Legality: Implementing the Gold Card would require amendments to both the Immigration and Nationality Act and the U.S. tax code. As of now, no such legislation has been introduced in Congress, raising questions about the program's legal foundation.
• Equity: Critics argue that the program creates a two-tiered immigration system, favoring the rich while others face lengthy and complex processes.
• Economic Impact: While the administration claims that selling Gold Cards could help reduce the national debt, experts question whether enough ultra-wealthy individuals are willing to pay $5 million for U.S. residency to make a significant impact.

Motivations Behind the Purchase

Several factors motivate individuals to invest in the Trump Gold Card:​

• Residency and Mobility: The card provides the right to live and work in the U.S., offering flexibility and freedom of movement.​
• Economic Opportunities: Access to the U.S. market can be a significant advantage for international businesspeople.​
• Education and Healthcare: Residency allows families to benefit from the U.S.'s educational institutions and healthcare system.​
• Security and Stability: For individuals from regions with political or economic instability, U.S. residency offers a safe haven.​

Additionally, the Gold Card may appeal to those seeking to avoid global taxation, as it reportedly exempts holders from U.S. taxes on foreign income.​

FAQs

1. Is the Trump Gold Card an official government document?

No. It is a symbolic item, not linked to any government program.

2. Does the card grant access to Trump events?

There is no guaranteed access despite some advertising claims.

3. Can I use the card to vote or show identification?

Absolutely not. The card is not a legal ID.

4. Are there different versions of the Trump Gold Card?

Yes. Some cards are gold-plated, and others are in digital-only or collectible formats.

5. Is it refundable if I change my mind?

Refund policies vary. Most purchases labeled as donations are non-refundable.

6. Why do people still buy it?

For symbolic support, collectibility, and political branding.

The Trump Gold Card represents a significant shift in U.S. immigration policy, emphasizing wealth as a primary criterion for residency. While it offers potential economic benefits through increased investment, it also raises important ethical and legal questions. As the program unfolds, its long-term implications for American society and values will be closely scrutinized.​
 
For those considering the Gold Card, it's essential to weigh the benefits against the broader societal and legal ramifications. As with any significant investment, due diligence and a thorough understanding of the program's implications are crucial.