On February 25, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump unveiled a bold new immigration initiative. He announced the “gold card” visa, a $5 million residency permit for wealthy investors. This plan aims to replace the decades-old EB-5 investor visa program. Trump claims it will attract “successful” foreigners to boost the economy. The announcement has ignited discussions worldwide.
The “gold card” offers green card privileges and a path to citizenship. Unlike the EB-5, it skips job creation requirements. Trump touted it as a game-changer in the Oval Office. He predicts wealthy buyers will pour money into the U.S. economy. Critics, however, see it as a “pay-to-play” scheme.
Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick backed the proposal. He said the program could launch in two weeks. The EB-5, started in 1990, required a $1 million investment for residency. Lutnick called it flawed and full of fraud. The “gold card” aims to raise the bar—and the price.
International reactions are pouring in fast. Many countries already have “golden visa” programs for the rich. The U.K., Canada, and Spain offer similar schemes. Trump’s version, though, stands out with its steep $5 million fee. Experts say it could reshape global migration trends.
Why the Gold Card Visa Matters Now
The timing of this news is striking. It comes amid Trump’s push for mass deportations. He’s cracking down on undocumented migrants hard. Yet, he’s rolling out the red carpet for the ultra-wealthy. This contrast has sparked fierce debate online.
Posts on X highlight the divide. Some praise it as a smart economic move. Others slam it as unfair to average immigrants. One user wrote, “Rewarding the rich, punishing the poor.” The hashtag #GoldCardVisa is trending globally.
The EB-5 program wasn’t perfect either. It capped visas and faced fraud accusations. Still, it helped thousands gain residency since 1990. The “gold card” ditches its structure entirely. Supporters argue it’s a cleaner, bolder approach.
Trump hinted at big numbers. He mused about selling up to 10 million “gold cards.” If true, that could mean $50 trillion in revenue. He says it might cut the U.S. deficit. Skeptics question if Congress will even approve it.
Global Impact on Wealthy Investors
Wealthy investors worldwide are taking note. Henley & Partners reports over 100 nations offer “golden visas.” The U.S. joining this club could shift investment flows. Places like Dubai and Greece might lose appeal. A $5 million entry fee, though, limits the pool.
Indians, especially, could feel the pinch. Over 1 million wait in green card backlogs. The EB-5 was a popular route despite its flaws. Now, the “gold card” raises the stakes fivefold. Only India’s richest can likely afford it.
Companies might benefit too. Trump suggested firms could sponsor talent with “gold cards.” This could replace some work visas. Skilled workers might get a faster track to residency. Details, however, remain scarce.
What’s Next for the Gold Card Visa ?
The rollout timeline is ambitious. Trump claims it’ll start in two weeks. Yet, immigration experts doubt that speed. New visa categories need Congress’s nod. Trump insists approval isn’t required, but legal hurdles loom.
Critics worry about fairness. The “gold card” favors wealth over merit, they say. It could deepen inequality in immigration. Supporters counter that it’s pragmatic. They argue it brings in cash and jobs.
For now, the world watches closely. Will the “gold card” visa take off? Can it deliver on Trump’s promises? The answers will shape U.S. policy—and global wealth flows—for years. Stay tuned as this story unfolds.