US to Launch $5 Million Gold Card Immigration Program This Week

The United States is set to make waves in global immigration policy this week with the official launch of its highly anticipated gold card—a premium residency-by-investment initiative aimed at the world’s wealthiest individuals.

Replacing the traditional EB-5 visa for immigrant investors, this $5 million program promises a streamlined path to U.S. residency and, eventually, citizenship. The move is part of a broader effort to modernize America’s immigration framework and generate substantial economic benefits.

What Is the US Gold Card?

The gold card is an elite immigration program that offers permanent residency to foreign nationals who invest $5 million in the U.S. Unlike the EB-5 visa, which requires applicants to create at least 10 full-time jobs and endure long processing times, the gold card has no job creation requirement and is designed for expedited approval.

U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick confirmed the program will officially begin rolling out within the week. Former President Donald Trump first unveiled the concept during a press event aboard Air Force One, describing the initiative as a “game-changer” for wealthy investors.

How It Differs from the EB-5 Program

The EB-5 program has been a staple of U.S. immigration for decades but has recently struggled with backlogs, fraud concerns, and administrative bottlenecks. In contrast, the gold card aims to:

• Eliminate complex application requirements

• Speed up processing times

• Attract ultra-high-net-worth individuals

• Generate billions in foreign investment

Trump stated that the program could bring in $5 billion if only one million cards are issued—an ambitious goal, but one that reflects the growing global demand for premium immigration pathways.

The Trump Card: Symbolic & Strategic

The first physical gold card was presented by Trump himself, emblazoned with his name and image. He called it the “Trump Card,” suggesting that high-profile investors from around the world, including Russian billionaires, might be eager to apply.

Though some critics view this as political theater, it signals a significant shift in how the U.S. engages with global wealth migration.

Global Implications: America Joins the Golden Visa Club

With this move, the U.S. enters the exclusive circle of nations offering high-value investor visas. Countries like Portugal, Greece, the UAE, and New Zealand have long drawn global investors with similar offerings. Now, America is poised to compete at the highest level.

Experts predict a surge in interest from:

• Business moguls

• Tech entrepreneurs

• High-profile investors

• Families seeking long-term security and educational access in the U.S.

What Does the Gold Card Include?

Gold card holders will receive:

• U.S. permanent residency

• The right to live and work in the U.S.

• Eventual access to American citizenship (after standard residency timelines)

• No requirement to create jobs or invest in specific sectors

The high price point is designed to limit applicants to those with substantial financial means, ensuring a smoother and faster process.

Potential Benefits—and Controversies

Supporters argue the gold card is an innovative way to boost the economy, attract talent, and increase government revenue. Critics, however, raise ethical concerns about turning citizenship into a commodity reserved for the ultra-rich.

Still, immigration analysts say that in today’s competitive landscape, where countries battle for global talent and capital, such elite programs are becoming the norm rather than the exception.

With the gold card set to launch within days, the U.S. is officially joining the new era of luxury immigration. The program represents not only a shift in immigration strategy but also a powerful signal to the world’s wealthiest individuals: America is open for investment—and residency.

For those who can afford the $5 million entry fee, the gold card offers unmatched prestige, access, and opportunity. The American dream may now come with a golden sheen.