For high-achieving individuals seeking a pathway to U.S. citizenship, President Donald Trump’s proposed $5 million “Gold Card Visa” has sparked significant interest. 

This initiative, announced in February 2025, aims to replace the existing EB-5 visa program, offering a streamlined route to permanent residency and eventual citizenship for wealthy individuals. 

But what does this mean for you? In this blog post, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the Trump Gold Card Visa, its benefits, eligibility requirements, and how it compares to other global golden visa programs like the Golden Visa New Zealand or the Visa US programs “golden visa” programs.  

What Is the Trump Gold Card Visa Program?  

The Trump Gold Card Visa is a proposed residency-by-investment program that would allow foreign nationals to obtain U.S. permanent residency by investing 5 million euro in dollars (approximately $5.4 million). 

Unlike the current EB-5 visa, which requires a $1 million investment (or $800,000 in targeted employment areas) and job creation, the Golden Card Visa focuses solely on attracting high-net-worth individuals.  

President Trump described the Golden Card as an upgrade to the traditional green card, offering “green card privileges plus a route to citizenship.” The program is designed to attract “world-class global citizens” who can contribute to the U.S. economy while undergoing thorough vetting to ensure credibility.  

Why Is Trump Replacing the EB-5 Visa Program?  

The EB-5 visa program, established in 1990, has long been a popular pathway for foreign investors seeking U.S. residency. 

However, it has faced criticism for being riddled with fraud and inefficiencies. According to a 2021 report by the Washington Post, the EB-5 visa program has significant risks, including challenges in tracing the origins of applicants’ funds and perceptions of favoritism.  

Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick echoed these concerns, calling the EB-5 program “full of nonsense, make-believe, and fraud.” The Trump administration aims to replace it with the Golden Card Visa, which is expected to be more transparent and attract higher-caliber investors.  

Who Qualifies for the Trump Gold Card Visa?  

While specific eligibility criteria are yet to be finalized, President Trump has indicated that the program will target “people with money.” Applicants will undergo rigorous vetting to ensure they meet the standards of “wonderful, world-class global citizens.” 

At Veripass, we understand that high profile individuals are busy people. Hence, the reason we want to help you make your US visa application seamless. We are here to help you lift the burden of your US visa application, whether the O-1 visa, the EB-2 NIW and even the latest Gold card visa. 

Interestingly, there doesn’t appear to be a cap on the number of visas issued, with Trump suggesting that selling 10 million visas could help reduce the national deficit.

However, the program is not without controversy, as critics argue it could disproportionately benefit wealthy individuals, including Russian oligarchs and other foreign elites.  

Benefits of the Trump Gold Card Visa  

1. Fast-Track to Citizenship: While current green card holders typically wait five years to apply for citizenship, it remains unclear whether Gold Card Visa holders will enjoy a shorter waiting period.  
2. Global Mobility: The Gold Card Visa offers the prestige of U.S. residency, which can enhance your global mobility and business opportunities.  
3. Economic Opportunities: As a U.S. resident, you gain access to one of the world’s largest economies, with opportunities to invest in real estate, startups, and other ventures.  

However, it’s important to note that U.S. tax laws apply to permanent residents, regardless of where they live or hold assets. Wealthy individuals often structure their finances to mitigate these obligations, but this is a critical consideration for potential applicants.  

How Does the Trump Gold Card Visa Compare to Other Golden Visa Programs?  

Golden visas are not unique to the United States. Many countries, including Spain, Greece, and Malta, offer residency or citizenship in exchange for investment. For example:  

– UK Investor Visa: Requires a minimum investment of £2 million ($2.5 million).  

– Spain Golden Visa: Offers residency for a €500,000 ($540,000) real estate investment.  

– Caribbean Citizenship Programs: Countries like Dominica and St. Kitts and Nevis offer citizenship for as little as $200,000.  

While the Trump Golden Card Visa is significantly more expensive, the U.S. offers unparalleled opportunities for business, innovation, and quality of life, making it a compelling option for high-net-worth individuals.  

Why Are Golden Visas Controversial?  

Golden visa programs have faced criticism for several reasons:  

1. Money Laundering Risks: Critics argue that these programs can be exploited for illicit financial activities.  
2. Housing Market Impact: In cities like London and Lisbon, golden visas have driven up real estate prices, making housing less affordable for locals.  
3. Inequality Concerns: Critics view golden visas as a way for the wealthy to “buy” citizenship, bypassing traditional immigration pathways.  

The Trump Gold Card Visa could face similar scrutiny, particularly if it is implemented without Congressional approval.  

Is the Trump Gold Card Visa Right for You?  

If you’re a high-achieving professional, entrepreneur, or investor with the financial means, the Trump Gold Card Visa could be a game-changer. However, it’s essential to weigh the costs and benefits carefully.

At VeriPass, we specialize in helping high networth individuals like you navigate complex immigration pathways, including the O-1 visa and EB-2 (NIW) categories.  

Our team of experts provides personalized support, from eligibility assessments to credibility-building strategies, ensuring your application stands out.

Whether you’re exploring the Golden Card Visa or other immigration options like the New Zealand Green card or Residence permit US, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.  

The Trump Golden Card Visa represents a unique opportunity for high-net-worth individuals to fast-track their U.S. citizenship. However, success requires careful planning, expert guidance, and a clear understanding of the program’s requirements.  

At VeriPass, we’re committed to helping you achieve your immigration goals. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discover how we can help you unlock the doors to your American dream.