Trump introduces the Golden Card Visa: Who’s eligible for Green Card alternative?
Trump's administration is seeking to secure immigrants with a new program called 'Golden Card'. Here’s what you need to know.
Obtaining a Green Card has long been the goal of millions of immigrants seeking stability in the United States. Permanent residency not only grants the right to work legally but also paves the way toward U.S. citizenship. However, the process is often lengthy, and the available options are limited, typically including programs such as the Diversity Visa Lottery or investment through the EB-5 visa program.
Now, the Trump administration has introduced a new pathway for individuals with the financial means to secure their stay in the country: the "Golden Card." This exclusive immigration permit is specifically designed to attract high-net-worth investors willing to invest large sums in exchange for residency.
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Golden Card to Replace EB-5 Visas
On Tuesday, Donald Trump announced his plan to introduce a ‘Golden Card’, a new immigration program allowing foreign investors to obtain U.S. citizenship for a $5 million fee. This initiative aims to replace an existing investor visa program that has been in place for the past 35 years.
"These will be wealthy and successful individuals who will invest heavily, pay significant taxes, and create numerous jobs. We believe this will be a great success," Trump stated in the Oval Office, referring to those eligible for the Golden Card, which would provide one of the most sought-after legal residency pathways under his administration.
Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick revealed that the Golden Card will officially replace the EB-5 visa program in just two weeks. The EB-5 visa, established by Congress in 1990, was designed to attract foreign investment by granting U.S. residency to individuals who invested at least $1 million in businesses that created a minimum of 10 jobs.
Trump's initiative aims to control immigration at the U.S. borders. Photo: LR composition.
Golden Card: How it works and who is eligible to obtain it
Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick explained that the "Golden Card" will not only grant U.S. residency but also provide access to tax and legal benefits currently available to permanent residents.
Applicants will be required to meet strict eligibility criteria, including:
- Providing proof of legally obtained wealth.
- Making strategic investments in key sectors of the U.S. economy.
- Passing rigorous security screenings before receiving approval.
According to Lutnick, the goal of this visa is to attract "top-tier global citizens" who can contribute their capital and expertise to support the country's economic growth.