On February 25, 2025, President Donald Trump announced the “Gold Card” visa program, a streamlined pathway to U.S. residency and citizenship for affluent foreign investors. This initiative may serve as a replacement for the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program, removing the need for business ownership and job creation. President Trump emphasized, “This is about bringing in the best and the brightest—the world’s elite who want to invest in America without unnecessary restrictions.” [Remarks by President Trump Before Cabinet Meeting – The White House]
What is the Gold Card Visa?
The Gold Card Visa requires a $5 million direct payment to the U.S. government in exchange for residency rights and an expedited path to citizenship. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick highlighted the program’s intent to attract “world-class global citizens.” [US will sell ‘gold card’ to wealthy foreigners, Trump says, replacing EB-5 visa program | CNN Politics]
Key Steps for Gold Card Visa Applicants
- Application Submission – Investors submit an eligibility application.
- Financial Commitment – A $5 million payment is made directly to the U.S. government.
- Comprehensive Vetting – Applicants undergo rigorous background checks.
- Issuance of the Gold Card – Upon approval, investors receive U.S. residency with a direct path to citizenship.
Gold Card Visa vs. EB-5
Feature | Gold Card Visa | EB-5 Program |
Investment | $5 million to U.S. government | $1.8 million for non-targeted areas ($800,000 in targeted areas) |
Use of Funds | Government revenue | Investment in commercial enterprises |
Job Creation | None | 10-20 jobs depending on the EB-5 program |
Processing | Expected to be streamlined | Historically slow, with fraud concerns |
The Gold Card Visa fundamentally alters investment-based immigration by eliminating business risks, streamlining residency acquisition, and simplifying compliance requirements for foreign investors.
How the Gold Card Visa Benefits Investors
- Fast-Track U.S. Residency – A more straightforward process compared to the EB-5 program.
- No Business or Job Creation Requirements – Ideal for investors who prefer not to manage U.S. business operations.
- Clear and Predictable Process – Eliminates risks associated with private investment and commercial enterprises.
- Path to Citizenship – Provides a direct opportunity to transition from residency to U.S. citizenship.
- Per country quota limitations: It is yet to be determined how the per country quota limitations will affect this new rule, considering that nationals of India and China are facing backlogs in their quotas.
Prospective Investors
If you are considering this new Gold Card Visa, take the following steps to ensure a smooth transition:
- Work with a Licensed Immigration Attorney – A legal expert will guide you through the process and ensure compliance.
- Plan for U.S. Residency – Consider housing, lifestyle, and family relocation needs.
- Monitor Policy Updates – Stay informed about changes to U.S. investment immigration policies as the policy guide is finalized.
Partner with USILAW for Expert Guidance
At USILAW, we specialize in assisting investors with strategic immigration planning. Contact our team today to discuss how the Gold Card Visa can align with your investment and residency goals in the U.S.
We anticipate some guidance as to how this new program will be implemented, in the coming weeks. We will update you once we have additional information. Please note that this is not law yet.
If you have any questions, please contact info@usilaw.com
Written by Anthony Waddell.
