Donald Trump’s $5 million “gold card” visa scheme will begin accepting applications within a week. The program allows foreigners to invest in the United States and earn permanent residency, which can lead a path to citizenship. TrumpCard.gov, a new website, will be used to accept applications, according to the announcement made at the Axios “Building the Future” event in Washington, DC.
The Commerce Secretary, Howard Lutnick, said the website will be launched shortly. The purpose of the initiative is to encourage wealthy individuals to make contributions to the massive $36 trillion national debt.
⭐SOON TO BE AVAILABLE: #Trump’s ‘gold card’ visa will be available for registration within a week. The visa costs $5 million and would give the person the right to live and work permanently in the United States. INFO: https://t.co/FvvNDxaojy pic.twitter.com/jIR11hgTde
— KWTX News 10 (@kwtx) May 22, 2025
What is the Gold Card Program?
Donald Trump first proposed the gold card program in February. Permanent residency is available to foreign nationals who contribute $5 million to the US economy. Trump offers candidates green card benefits, a fast route to citizenship, and an exemption from foreign income taxes.
According to Trump’s earlier remarks, “We’re going to be putting a price on that card of about $5 million.” “By purchasing this card, wealthy individuals will be entering our nation.”
“It changed the game,” Howard Lutnick said. After visiting the Middle East, he asserted that every wealthy individual he met desired access. According to Lutnick, “These are going to be wonderful people.” They will provide business and opportunities in exchange for $5 million. If two hundred thousand people apply, that’s a trillion bucks.
Musk’s Backing and a Quiet Rollout
Trump’s supporter, Elon Musk, gave the plan his social media endorsement. Prior to the official launch, Musk asserted that the government had already carried out a private trial. The current EB-5 visa framework, which required $900,000 to $1.8 million in investment and job creation for Americans, is anticipated to be replaced by the gold card.
Legal Hurdles Remain
Lawmakers and legal experts warned that the program may not be legitimate. Many contend that it requires congressional approval because it changes the current immigration system. Trump intends to use executive authority to carry it out, but there are concerns from both parties.
Senator Rand Paul, a Republican, expressed disapproval. Although fewer people might qualify at the $5 million level, he stated, “I don’t think it should replace the EB-5.”
Part of a Larger Immigration Crackdown
The gold card is a component of Trump’s overall immigration strategy. Its main objectives are to increase deportations, restrict illegal entry, and reform visa policies such as H-1B. Trump is still optimistic that his plan will increase economic growth and generate revenue through high-net-worth migrants, even in the face of legal uncertainty.
A legal and political battle that could change the course of US immigration in the future is now being set up by the gold card.
