Trump unveils $1m ‘Gold Card' fast-track visa for wealthy applicants

President Donald Trump has launched a new programme offering accelerated US visas to wealthy foreign nationals willing to pay at least $1m. The “Trump Gold Card,” promoted by Trump on social media, promises a direct path to citizenship for applicants who pass background checks.

According to the scheme’s website, the Gold Card is intended for individuals who can provide a “substantial benefit” to the United States. It offers residency in “record time” and requires a $1m payment as proof of economic contribution. Businesses sponsoring employees must pay $2m, while a “platinum” version with special tax advantages will soon be available for $5m.

Applicants must also pay a non-refundable $15,000 processing fee, with additional government charges possible depending on the case.

Critics, including several Democrats, argue the programme unfairly favors the wealthy. Trump has compared the Gold Card to a fast-tracked alternative to the existing green card system, but targeted at “high-level” professionals. He has argued that wealthy applicants will help create jobs.

The launch comes as the administration tightens immigration rules, raising visa fees, expanding deportation efforts and maintaining restrictions on individuals from 19 countries under the travel ban. The government has also paused decisions on asylum cases and begun reviewing approvals granted under President Joe Biden.

In September, Trump ordered a $100,000 fee for H-1B skilled worker visa applicants, causing alarm among tech firms and international students. The White House later clarified the fee applies only to new applicants living outside the US.