Donald Trump has revealed a shocking new immigration plan. The former president wants to sell a special visa—called the ‘Gold Card’—to rich migrants for $5 million each. This elite visa would even offer a path to U.S. citizenship. He announced this ambitious proposal during a press briefing in the Oval Office. According to Trump, the ‘Gold Card’ would replace the outdated EB-5 visa program, which allows foreign investors to gain permanent residency in the U.S. He believes the current system is ineffective and needs an upgrade.
A premium path to citizenship
Trump described the ‘Gold Card’ as offering “green card privileges plus.” This means that holders would enjoy many benefits, including the opportunity to apply for U.S. citizenship if they meet all the necessary qualifications. He framed the initiative as an economic boost, arguing that wealthy migrants would contribute significantly. “They’ll be wealthy, they’ll be successful, and they’ll spend a lot of money,” he said. Trump also stated that these individuals would pay high taxes and create jobs, making them valuable to the country.
Launching in just two weeks
The plan is moving quickly. Trump said the program could be ready in just two weeks. He positioned it as an unprecedented opportunity for foreign elites who want to establish themselves in the U.S. His administration believes this will be a massive success, as no similar program has ever been introduced before. With high demand for U.S. residency among the world’s wealthiest individuals, Trump sees this as a game-changer for immigration policy.
Commerce secretary backs the plan
United States Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick fully supports the plan. He criticized the current EB-5 program, calling it “full of nonsense, make-believe, and fraud.” According to Lutnick, the ‘Gold Card’ program would be a much more effective alternative. He emphasized that only highly qualified applicants would be approved. “We’re going to make sure they’re world-class global citizens,” he said. There would be a strict vetting process to ensure only the most elite individuals receive the visa.
A revenue jackpot for America?
Trump believes the program could generate enormous revenue. He claimed the U.S. could sell “maybe a million” of these visas, potentially bringing in up to $55 trillion. He argued that America should be making more money from wealthy immigrants. The current EB-5 visa requires a $1 million investment in a U.S. company, but applicants only pay around $20,000 in fees. Trump sees this as a missed financial opportunity. He wants a more sophisticated system that benefits the country financially while attracting high-value individuals.
Executive action, no congress needed
Trump insists that his administration can implement the ‘Gold Card’ program without congressional approval. “We don’t need Congress,” he declared. He explained that while the visa would offer a strong path to citizenship, actual naturalization would still require congressional action. However, he remains confident that the executive branch can establish the program and begin issuing visas immediately.
Russian oligarchs welcome?
Trump did not rule out Russian applicants. When asked if Russians could qualify, he responded, “I know some Russian oligarchs who are very nice people.” He noted that many of them aren’t as rich as they used to be. This comment has sparked speculation about whether the program could provide an easy route for controversial foreign figures to gain U.S. residency. Critics argue that selling visas to the highest bidder could lead to ethical and security concerns.
Will the ‘Gold Card’ be a game-changer?
Trump’s proposal has stunned many. Critics worry about selling U.S. residency to the highest bidder. Supporters see it as a clever way to boost the economy. With a launch date just weeks away, the world is watching closely. If implemented, the ‘Gold Card’ could reshape immigration policy and create a new pathway for the ultra-wealthy to secure a future in the United States. Only time will tell if it becomes a success or a controversial failure.
