In a bold move blending economic ambition with his signature flair for branding, President Donald Trump officially launched the “Trump Gold Card” visa program on December 10, 2025. This initiative promises expedited U.S. residency—and a pathway to citizenship—for wealthy foreigners willing to make a substantial financial “gift” to the U.S. government. Amid ongoing debates over immigration reform and mass deportations, the program has sparked both excitement among business leaders and sharp criticism from immigration advocates. As Trump himself posted on Truth Social, “THE UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT’S TRUMP GOLD CARD IS HERE TODAY! A direct path to Citizenship for all qualified and vetted people. SO EXCITING!”

What is the Trump Gold Card?

The Trump Gold Card is essentially a modern “golden visa” tailored for high-net-worth individuals and top global talent. For a $1 million contribution (framed as a non-refundable “gift” to promote American commerce and industry), applicants receive lawful permanent residency—equivalent to an EB-1 or EB-2 green card—processed in “record time” after a background check by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). A non-refundable $15,000 processing fee kicks off the application via the new official website, trumpcard.gov.

Trump teased an even more exclusive “Trump Platinum Card” variant at $5 million, which would allow holders to spend up to 270 days annually in the U.S. without paying taxes on non-U.S. income. This tier targets ultra-wealthy investors seeking tax advantages alongside residency perks.

For corporations, there’s a “Corporate Gold Card” option: Businesses can sponsor foreign employees for $2 million per person, helping retain “invaluable talent” from countries like China, India, and France—nations Trump highlighted during a White House roundtable with CEOs like Michael Dell. Additional fees include a 1% annual maintenance charge and a 5% transfer fee for corporate cards.

The physical card itself? It’s a glossy depiction featuring Trump’s portrait against an American flag backdrop, complete with his signature—turning immigration into a collectible status symbol.

Background and Launch Details

Trump first floated the idea in February 2025, initially pegging the price at $5 million before scaling it down to $1 million amid feedback. He formalized it via executive order in September 2025, with the program officially rolling out yesterday during a Roosevelt Room event flanked by business titans. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick hailed it as a “monumental day,” noting that 10,000 pre-registrations had already poured in. Trump envisions it generating “tremendous amounts of money” for federal coffers—potentially billions—while attracting entrepreneurs who can “make America great again.”

This comes as the administration ramps up deportations of undocumented immigrants and imposes a $100,000 fee on H-1B visas, signaling a pivot toward a merit- and wealth-based immigration system. The Gold Card replaces elements of the existing EB-5 investor visa program, which required job-creating investments but often faced delays and fraud concerns.

Reactions and Controversies

Supporters, including Trump allies like South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem, praise it as a savvy way to fund infrastructure and innovation without raising taxes on Americans. “It’s a gift to the United States,” Lutnick said, emphasizing how it prioritizes “the best people” over lower-wage green card holders.

Critics, however, decry it as a “pay-to-play” scheme that undermines America’s image as a land of opportunity for the hardworking, not just the ultra-rich. Immigration groups argue it contradicts Trump’s deportation rhetoric, creating a two-tiered system where the wealthy buy their way in while millions face expulsion. On X (formerly Twitter), reactions range from memes mocking the card’s design to serious debates: One viral post quipped, “Instead of deporting illegals, Trump is selling citizenship with his face on it.” Others, like policy analyst Tawsif Anam, see it boosting the economy through massive investments.

Globally, it’s drawing interest from tech hubs in Asia and Europe, with Indian media buzzing about opportunities for skilled workers. But questions linger: Will it truly vet for security risks, or just line government pockets?

Implications for the U.S. and Beyond

If successful, the Gold Card could inject billions into the economy, fueling job growth in tech, finance, and manufacturing. Trump positions it as a win for American companies struggling with talent shortages post-H-1B crackdowns. Yet, it risks deepening inequality, favoring oligarchs over dreamers. As applications flood in, watch for legal challenges and congressional pushback—especially with a December 18 deadline for initial processing forms.

This is Trumpism in action: flashy, transactional, and unapologetically capitalist. Whether it’s a golden ticket to prosperity or fool’s gold remains to be seen.

FAQ: Trump Gold Card Essentials

Q: Who is eligible for the Trump Gold Card? A: Qualified foreign nationals who can prove they’ll benefit the U.S. (e.g., entrepreneurs, investors, or top graduates). Must pass DHS vetting and pay the fees.

Q: How long does processing take? A: “Record time”—typically weeks, compared to years for standard green cards.

Q: Does it lead to citizenship? A: Yes, after five years of residency, holders can apply for naturalization.

Q: What’s the difference between Gold and Platinum Cards? A: Gold ($1M) gets residency; Platinum ($5M) adds up to 270 tax-free days in the U.S. annually on foreign income.

Q: Can companies use it? A: Yes, for $2M per sponsored employee, with transferability for workforce needs.

Q: Is the $1M contribution tax-deductible? A: No—it’s a non-refundable gift to the government.

Q: Where do I apply? A: Start at trumpcard.gov with the $15K fee.

For more updates, follow developments on major news outlets or X discussions.