In brief
President Trump has launched a landmark $1 million immigration visa, dubbed the Gold Card, aimed at wealthy foreigners who can demonstrate substantial benefits to the U.S. economy. The initiative promises expedited residency and highlights a stark contrast to current immigration regulations as the administration intensifies its crackdown on undocumented immigrants.
President Donald Trump has launched a scheme offering fast-tracked US visas to wealthy foreigners who can pay at least $1m (£750,000).
The card will give buyers a direct path to Citizenship for all qualified and vetted people. SO EXCITING! Our Great American Companies can finally keep their invaluable Talent, Trump stated on social media.
The Trump Gold Card, first announced earlier this year, offers a U.S. visa evaluated based on an applicant’s potential to provide a substantial benefit to the country, according to the scheme's official website.
Introducing the Gold Card comes amidst Washington's intensified crackdown on immigration, which includes increased work visa fees and heightened deportation efforts.
This new scheme promises US residency in record time for a $1m fee—posited as evidence of an individual's ability to benefit the United States significantly.
Businesses looking to sponsor employees will have to pay $2m in fees, alongside additional costs. A higher-tier platinum version of the card is set to be available soon for $5m, with extra fees applicable based on individual circumstances, including a non-refundable $15,000 processing fee.
The program has sparked criticism since its announcement in February, with detractors claiming it unfairly favors the wealthy elite. In contrast, traditional green cards allow a more varied range of income levels among immigrants.
As the Trump administration ramped up deportation efforts and implemented a travel ban affecting numerous countries, this new visa scheme aims to attract productive individuals who can invest significantly in the U.S. economy.
