Trump Unveils Official Website for $5 Million 'Gold Card' Visa
In a bold move, former US President Donald Trump has launched a dedicated website inviting immigrants to express interest in the controversial new "gold card" visa. This residency permit promises a direct path to US citizenship for a hefty fee of $5 million. Though the program has yet to be officially launched, the site allows prospective applicants to register their details and prepare for enrollment.
How to Sign Up and Eligibility
The online portal currently collects basic information such as name, email, region of interest, and whether the applicant is applying individually or on behalf of a business. Applications are accepted from eight broad global regions, including:
- Europe
- Asia (including the Middle East)
- North America
- Oceania
- Central America
- South America
- The Caribbean
- Africa
The website features an image of the gold-colored card emblazoned with Trump's face and the inscription "The Trump Card." However, the site clarifies that those registered will be among the first notified when formal applications officially open.
Background and Potential Impact
Trump first introduced the gold card concept in April, presenting it as a lucrative alternative to the traditional green card. He touted it as a tool to attract wealthy investors and job creators, potentially generating significant revenue to help reduce the US national deficit. The former president suggested that the program could replace the current EB-5 investor visa, which requires an investment between $800,000 and $1.05 million to qualify for permanent residency.
Trump ambitiously forecasted selling up to one million gold cards, which could theoretically raise billions of dollars in revenue. He also hinted that applicants might include global elites such as Russian oligarchs. This program aligns with Trump's second-term immigration stance that emphasizes deporting undocumented migrants while providing a high-cost legal immigration channel.
What Lies Ahead
While the gold card visa remains unofficial, the launch of the registration website signals a significant step toward bringing the concept to fruition. Observers will be watching closely how the program develops, its reception among prospective immigrants, and its broader implications for US immigration policy and economic strategy.
