President Donald Trump has unveiled a new immigration initiative that would allow high-net-worth individuals to obtain legal residency in the U.S. through a $5 million ‘Gold Card’ visa. The program is designed to replace the existing EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program while generating billions in private investment for the U.S. economy.
A High-Value Visa with Expedited Privileges
Unlike the EB-5 program—which required applicants to invest at least $1.05 million and create 10 U.S. jobs—the new ‘Gold Card’ removes job creation requirements, focusing solely on financial contribution.
Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick defended the change, stating that the EB-5 visa had been abused as a “cheap” route to residency and had loopholes that invited fraud. The new system ensures that only the wealthiest and most vetted applicants can obtain U.S. residency, with no handouts or dependency on government programs.
Trump: A Trillion-Dollar Opportunity
President Trump framed the initiative as a game-changer for the U.S. economy, estimating that selling just one million ‘Gold Cards’ could generate $5 trillion—a massive boost that could help pay down the national debt.
“These are people who will invest heavily, pay a lot in taxes, and create jobs,” Trump stated. He also emphasized strict vetting, ensuring that only high-value individuals who contribute positively to America would be accepted.
A Pro-Business Approach to Immigration
The ‘Gold Card’ visa aligns with Trump’s America First vision, making immigration a privilege earned through investment, rather than a system burdened by chain migration and illegal crossings.
- Significant new revenue stream for the U.S.
- Attracts top-tier global investors who want to contribute to the economy.
- Cuts bureaucratic red tape by eliminating outdated visa policies.
Critics Raise Concerns, But Support Grows
Some opponents have questioned whether the initiative gives an advantage to the wealthy, while others argue it incentivizes the best and brightest to bring their capital and talent to the U.S.
With the program set to launch in the coming weeks, Trump’s bold new immigration approach is poised to bring in massive foreign investment while ensuring that only the most successful and self-sufficient individuals become part of the American economy.
President Trump announces the U.S. will replace the EB-5 program with a new “Gold Card.”
“They’ll be able to pay $5 million to the U.S. government. They’ll have to go through vetting, of course … The President can give them a green card — and they can invest in America and we… pic.twitter.com/xcJntSkHtm
— Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) February 25, 2025