The US has launched the Trump Gold Card, a premium fast-track visa programme requiring a $1 million contribution, offering wealthy applicants expedited residency and work rights through a streamlined, high-priority process.
US introduces Trump Gold Card for fast-track visas, with prices starting at $1 million
US President Donald Trump unveiled his administration’s new “Trump Gold Card” visa programme on Wednesday — an initiative that offers fast-tracked residency status to foreigners willing to pay a hefty price.
A new government website, Trumpcard.gov, is now live and provides an option to “apply now,” enabling prospective applicants to submit a $15,000 fee to the Department of Homeland Security for accelerated processing. Once the initial vetting and background checks are completed, applicants are required to make a $1 million “contribution,” described on the website as a “gift,” in order to receive the visa. This document functions similarly to a Green Card, granting holders the right to live and work anywhere in the United States.
“It’s essentially a Green Card — but much better. Much stronger, much more powerful, and a far superior pathway,” Trump told reporters in the Oval Office. “We want exceptional people.”
Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick revealed that interest has already been high, saying that roughly 10,000 individuals signed up during the pre-registration phase. He expects demand to rise substantially. “Over time, I anticipate we’ll sell thousands of these cards and generate billions of dollars,” he said in comments to Reuters.
According to Lutnick, the programme is intended to attract wealthy individuals who can contribute economically to the United States. He contrasted Gold Card applicants with what he called “average” Green Card recipients, claiming — without citing evidence — that they tend to earn less than the average American and are more likely to rely on public assistance.
The launch of the Gold Card comes despite the administration’s aggressive approach to immigration, which has included mass deportations and policies aimed at limiting both legal and illegal migration. The new initiative appears to serve as the administration’s revenue-focused counterpart: a system that brings in high-net-worth residents while generating significant funds for the US Treasury — similar to how Trump has described the financial benefits of his tariff strategy.
Lutnick also revealed that a corporate version of the Gold Card exists. Companies seeking to bring employees into the US on an expedited basis can do so for a $2 million contribution per worker.
Overall, the Trump Gold Card programme offers a new, high-priced path to US residency, blending immigration policy with revenue generation in a way the administration argues will financially benefit the country.
1. Comparison With Other Countries’ “Golden Visa” Programs
Many countries such as Portugal, Greece, Malta, and Australia offer residency or citizenship in exchange for investment.
You can compare how the Trump Gold Card differs — especially its unusually high cost ($1 million compared to Europe’s typical €250k–€500k schemes).
Mention how this positions the US as offering one of the most expensive fast-track residency options in the world.
2. Political Motivation and Timing
Discuss how the launch comes during heightened debate about US immigration policies.
Analyze whether the programme is meant to reshape immigration by favoring high-income applicants.
Mention political reactions or possible criticisms from policymakers or immigration-rights groups.
3. Potential Economic Impact
- Highlight how the Gold Card could channel billions into federal revenue if demand remains strong.
Mention potential areas where these funds might be used, such as infrastructure, public services, or deficit reduction.
Include economist opinions (generalised) on how high-net-worth migration affects local economies (real estate, business formation, investment inflows).
