In a new move, President Donald Trump has introduced a scheme offering fast-tracked U.S. visas to wealthy foreigners willing to invest at least $1 million (£750,000). The program promises a "direct path to citizenship" for qualified individuals. Trump announced it on social media, emphasizing that U.S. companies will be able to retain invaluable talent.
The "Trump Gold Card" is now available, with a more exclusive "Platinum Card" expected soon, offering an expedited route to U.S. residency and potentially citizenship for investors. The card will give buyers a "direct path to Citizenship for all qualified and vetted people. SO EXCITING! Our Great American Companies can finally keep their invaluable Talent," Trump said on social media on Wednesday.
During the White House event, Trump mentioned that numerous skilled graduates from nations such as India, China, and France depart the United States because of visa restrictions. “We think these will be some tremendous people that wouldn’t be allowed to stay… It’s ridiculous, we are taking care of that,” he said, adding that companies such as Apple would benefit.
How to apply
To apply for the Trump Gold Card, all applications must be submitted through the official trumpcard.gov website. Applicants must also undergo a vetting process to finalize their eligibility for the program.
Steps to Apply:
Select the Gold Card, Corporate Gold Card, or join the Platinum waitlist.
Enter personal details.
Create a myUSCIS.gov account.
Pay the $15,000 non-refundable processing fee.
Complete the vetting process and wire the $1 million or $2 million contribution.
Payments can be made by credit card, ACH debit (U.S. only), or international wire transfer.
About Trump's Gold Card?
The Trump Gold Card, which was first announced earlier this year, is a US visa awarded to those who can demonstrate they will provide a "substantial benefit" to the country, according to the scheme's official website. It comes as Washington intensifies its immigration crackdown, including raising work visa fees and deporting undocumented migrants.
The official site showcases a sample of the card with Trump's picture, the Statue of Liberty, the American flag, and a bald eagle. The platform claims that the Gold Card offers "faster" entry to the US and "unparalleled opportunities" for individuals who can make economic contributions.
To apply, applicants must be eligible for lawful permanent residency, admissible to the United States, and have a visa number available. Gold Card holders will be taxed similarly to U.S. permanent residents.
How much does the Gold Card cost?
$15,000 non-refundable DHS processing fee
$1 million contribution after background clearance
Additional Department of State visa processing charges may apply
Family members, spouses, and unmarried children under 21 may be added for the same fee and contribution.
What is the Trump Platinum Card?
The Platinum Card, currently in the waitlist stage, will require a $15,000 DHS processing fee and a $5 million contribution. Once available, cardholders will reportedly be able to spend up to 270 days per year in the U.S. without being taxed on non-U.S. income. However, U.S. citizens, resident aliens, and those previously taxed on foreign income are not eligible. Applications for the waitlist are now open.
