U.S. President Donald Trump has introduced a controversial new immigration proposal offering affluent foreigners indefinite U.S. residency through a premium “Gold Card” program. The plan, revealed aboard Air Force One, would grant permanent residence rights to individuals investing $5 million in the United States.
Key Details:
- Officially dubbed the “Trump Card” by the President
- Expected launch within two weeks
- Targets high-net-worth individuals and skilled professionals
- Potentially replaces existing EB-5 investor visa program
- Includes pathway to U.S. citizenship
Trump personally showcased the gold-plated card to reporters, which features his portrait, stating: “For 5 million dollars this could be yours.” The program would require financial sponsors – either corporations or private benefactors – to cover visa costs for qualified applicants.
This initiative revives and expands upon Trump’s February immigration reform proposals, marking his administration’s latest effort to reshape U.S. immigration policy through economic filters. Civil rights groups have already criticized the plan as creating “pay-to-stay” immigration tiers, while business leaders welcome potential investment inflows.
The Gold Card system would represent the most exclusive U.S. immigration category ever created if implemented, fundamentally altering America’s traditional merit-based immigration framework. Legal experts note the proposal would require congressional approval, setting up a potential legislative battle ahead of the 2024 elections.
