Trump Proposes $5 Million ‘Gold Card’ Visa for Wealthy Immigrants: A New Path to U.S. Citizenship
Trump’s Gold Card Visa: A High-Value Pathway to U.S. Citizenship
In a bold new immigration policy proposal, former President Donald Trump has introduced the “Gold Card” visa, a program designed to offer U.S. residency and an expedited path to citizenship for wealthy foreign investors. The initiative, which requires a $5 million investment, is positioned as a premium alternative to the existing EB-5 visa program, which has long been used to attract foreign capital into the U.S. economy.
Key Features of Trump’s Gold Card Visa Program
$5 Million Investment Requirement – Applicants must invest at least $5 million to qualify for permanent residency in the United States.
Direct Path to Citizenship – Unlike traditional visa programs, the Gold Card offers a streamlined route to becoming a U.S. citizen.
Replacement for EB-5 Visa – Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick confirmed that the Gold Card will phase out the EB-5 program within the next two weeks.
Revenue Potential – Trump hinted that the program could generate billions in revenue, potentially selling up to 10 million Gold Cards as a strategy to reduce the national deficit.
No Congressional Approval Needed – The administration believes the program can be implemented without requiring approval from Congress, making it a faster alternative to legislative immigration reforms.
Trump’s Economic Justification for the Gold Card Visa
Trump’s proposal emphasizes economic benefits, arguing that attracting ultra-wealthy investors will boost the U.S. economy through job creation, tax contributions, and increased spending. The program aims to target high-net-worth individuals who can invest in businesses, real estate, and infrastructure projects, mirroring similar investor visa programs found in over 100 countries worldwide.
How the Gold Card Compares to Other Investor Visas
While investor visa programs exist in countries like Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia, Trump’s $5 million threshold positions the Gold Card as a premium option, significantly higher than many international equivalents. The EB-5 visa program, for comparison, required an investment of $900,000 to $1.8 million, along with the creation of at least 10 American jobs.
Potential Controversy and Political Implications
Critics argue that the program prioritizes wealthy elites over skilled workers, refugees, and other immigrant groups. Additionally, questions remain about how the program will be structured and whether it will face legal challenges.
With Trump’s 2024 election campaign in full swing, the Gold Card proposal is expected to be a central talking point in his immigration and economic policy platform. As discussions unfold, it remains to be seen whether this initiative will gain traction or face pushback from policymakers and the public alike.
Source : Swifteradio.com
