Trump Opens Waiting List for a $5 Million Immigration ‘Gold Card’
On June 12, 2025, US President Donald Trump made headlines by launching a platform for prospective immigrants interested in a new program known as the ‘gold card.’ This initiative offers a pathway to permanent residency in the United States for a price tag of $5 million. The launch took place via the website trumpcard.gov, where interested individuals can register their intent to apply for this high-value immigration option.
What is the ‘Gold Card’?
The ‘gold card’ is envisioned as a premium immigration program targeted at wealthy individuals seeking to establish residency in the U.S. Unlike traditional routes, this scheme complements the EB-5 investor visa, which currently requires a minimum investment and a commitment to creating jobs in the U.S.
The government describes the gold card as a fast-track alternative, with Trump characterizing it as “green card privileges plus.” The implication here is that it not only streamlines the immigration process but also opens doors for those deemed capable of significantly contributing to the economy.
Understanding the Path to Citizenship
A common question arises: Does paying $5 million guarantee immediate citizenship? The answer is nuanced. According to statements made by Trump, the gold card provides a pathway to citizenship but does not offer it outright. The program is purportedly designed for individuals of wealth or talent, giving them a more sophisticated immigration status akin to a green card without the promise of instant citizenship.
“You can compare it to a green card, but it’s a higher level of sophistication,” Trump noted, emphasizing that it’s merely a step toward citizenship rather than an automatic grant.
Signing Up for the Gold Card
As of now, those interested cannot purchase a gold card directly. Instead, the trumpcard.gov website invites visitors to leave their information to be notified when the program officially opens for applications. The homepage is clear and straightforward: “Enter your information below to be notified the moment access opens.” This approach keeps prospective applicants engaged while the administration prepares to roll out the program.
Comparing the Gold Card with the EB-5 Investor Visa
The EB-5 program has been a prominent option for immigrants wishing to invest in the United States. To qualify, individuals must invest between $800,000 and $1.05 million in a new commercial enterprise and create at least ten full-time jobs for U.S. workers. This requirement has placed a considerable burden on potential investors, making the gold card’s promise more appealing.
With the gold card, however, the requirement to create jobs has reportedly been removed. This simplified application process aims to attract more wealthy individuals who might find the EB-5 route daunting.
Concluding Thoughts
The introduction of Trump’s gold card program marks a significant shift in the landscape of U.S. immigration for the affluent. By positioning this as a more streamlined and less taxing alternative to existing programs, the administration hopes to attract global talent and investment, potentially reshaping the demographic fabric of the nation in the years to come.
For anyone considering this option, staying updated through the dedicated website will be crucial as the program progresses from concept to reality.
