U.S. President Donald Trump on Thursday officially launched a new registration website for his highly anticipated immigrant visa program aimed at attracting wealthy foreign investors. The program offers permanent residency and a potential path to citizenship for individuals willing to invest $5 million in the United States.
Announcing the launch on his social media platform, Truth Social, Trump wrote: “For just five million dollars, the Trump Card is here. Thousands of people have been calling to ask how to register. Ride this beautiful highway to the greatest country and market in the world — the United States of America. The waitlist is now open. Register now at trumpcard.gov.”
The newly unveiled website, trumpcard.gov, prominently features a gold card emblazoned with Trump’s portrait, symbolizing the exclusive nature of this immigration opportunity.
Background and Details of the Trump “Gold Card” Program
President Trump first revealed the “Gold Card” initiative earlier this year in February, describing it as a revolutionary new visa route designed specifically for wealthy international investors. Unlike traditional immigration programs, the Gold Card requires a minimum investment of $5 million, significantly higher than existing options.
According to Trump, speaking to The Hindustan Times, the card will grant holders green card privileges immediately, as well as an expedited pathway toward U.S. citizenship. He stated, “We will price this card at about five million dollars. It will give you green card privileges and a path to citizenship. The rich will gain entry to our country by purchasing this card.”
This move signals a shift in U.S. immigration policy, focusing on attracting ultra-high-net-worth individuals who can contribute substantial capital to the American economy.
Endorsements and Expectations from U.S. Officials
The Trump Card program has garnered support from several prominent officials, including U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick. Lutnick described the initiative as a game-changer for U.S. immigration, praising its potential to open doors for wealthy immigrants.
In comments reported by The Hindustan Times, Lutnick said, “I believe the traditional routes for U.S. immigration are evolving. The Trump Card is coming soon. I expect it to create tremendous opportunities for people wanting to come to America.”
His endorsement highlights the program’s positioning as a key economic driver that aligns with the administration’s goals of boosting investment and job creation in the United States.
How the Trump Card Will Replace the EB-5 Visa Program
The new Gold Card program is set to replace the existing EB-5 visa program, which has been the primary investment-based immigration pathway for decades. Under the EB-5 program, foreign investors are required to invest $1.8 million in a U.S. business — or $900,000 in targeted employment areas with high unemployment — plus pay fees ranging from $100,000 to $200,000 to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for green card processing.
While the EB-5 program has successfully brought in investment and created jobs, it has faced criticism over its lower investment threshold and the complexity of the application process.
By contrast, the Trump Gold Card demands a much higher investment of $5 million but promises faster and more streamlined access to permanent residency. This premium immigration option is aimed at attracting ultra-wealthy individuals who can make a significant economic impact while simplifying bureaucratic hurdles.
Potential Impact and Public Reaction
The launch of trumpcard.gov and the Trump Gold Card program is expected to generate significant interest among international investors seeking permanent residency in the United States. By raising the investment bar, the program targets a niche market of affluent applicants, distinguishing itself from traditional immigration programs.
However, some critics have raised concerns about the exclusivity and high cost, arguing it favors the wealthy and could exacerbate inequality in immigration opportunities. Others remain hopeful that the program will drive economic growth by injecting substantial capital into U.S. businesses and communities.
As the program’s registration process begins, stakeholders across the immigration, investment, and policy sectors will be watching closely to assess its uptake and long-term impact.
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