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Donald Trump has introduced a programme that offers expedited US visas to foreign nationals who pay a minimum of $1m. The initiative provides a route to permanent residency and eventual citizenship for applicants who meet eligibility and vetting requirements.
The announcement follows details previously reported earlier this year concerning the creation of the Trump Gold Card.
Programme outlines fast-track residency
According to the scheme’s official website, the Trump Gold Card is a visa issued to applicants who can show they will provide a “substantial benefit” to the United States. The programme states that payment of the $1m fee will serve as evidence of that benefit. BBC cited that it also says the scheme will deliver residency approval in what it describes as “record time”.
In a social-media post on Wednesday, Trump said the scheme offers a “direct path to Citizenship for all qualified and vetted people”. He stated that the programme would allow US companies to retain workers he described as “invaluable Talent”.
Applicants must also pay a non-refundable $15,000 processing fee before their documents are reviewed. The programme states that additional government charges may apply depending on individual circumstances.
Fees for businesses and premium option
Employers seeking to sponsor staff through the programme must pay $2m, in addition to other required fees. The website also states that a “platinum” version of the card will be introduced. It is priced at $5m and will include tax-related incentives.
Trump promoted the higher-tier option by saying, “The people that can pay $5m, they’re going to create jobs.” He said the programme would be widely used and called the cost “a bargain”.
The scheme targets what Trump described as “high-level” professionals. He contrasted it with the existing US green card system, which admits immigrants with a range of income levels. Green card holders can apply for citizenship after five years, a process the Gold Card aims to accelerate for paying applicants.
Political criticism and immigration actions
The programme has drawn criticism from Democratic lawmakers since its announcement in February. Critics argue that the system favours wealthy applicants and provides limited opportunities for others seeking permanent residency.
The program is being rolled out as the administration expands its immigration enforcement measures. Federal agencies have increased deportations of undocumented migrants and raised fees for various immigration services.
The US has paused immigration applications from the 19 countries included in the president’s travel ban, many of which are in Africa and the Middle East. Decisions on asylum applications have also been halted, and the administration has said it will review thousands of cases approved under former President Joe Biden.
Additional shifts in visa policies
In September, Trump signed an order requiring a $100,000 fee for applicants to the H-1B visa programme for skilled foreign workers. The policy initially caused concern among international students and technology companies. The White House later clarified that the fee applies only to new applicants who are currently outside the United States.
The administration has stated that its goal is to prioritise immigration pathways it considers economically beneficial while tightening other routes. The Gold Card programme represents one of the most significant changes to the system to date.
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