Trump Proposes $5 Million "Gold Card" Residency Permit to Replace "Green Card" System

Former US President Donald Trump has announced a new "gold card" residency permit, priced at $5 million, as an alternative to the existing green card system. The initiative, expected to launch in two weeks, aims to replace the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Programme.

Gold Card vs Green Card: Key Differences
The current EB-5 programme grants green cards to foreign investors who fund US businesses and create jobs. Trump's gold card system will provide similar residency rights but with a direct purchase option for wealthy individuals.

"It will offer green card privileges along with a path to American citizenship," Trump stated.

Green Card: Provides permanent US residency through employment, family sponsorship, or investment (via EB-5).
Gold Card: Offers the same residency benefits but for a $5 million payment, allowing faster approval for high-net-worth applicants.
Why Replace the EB-5 Programme?
Created in 1992, the EB-5 visa required foreign investors to contribute at least $1.05 million (or $800,000 in economically struggling areas) to secure a green card. While the programme funded major developments—including projects linked to Trump's family—it has faced criticism over misuse.

Trump previously attempted to raise the minimum investment to $1.8 million, but a judge blocked the move in 2021. The Biden administration later set the investment threshold at $1.05 million/$800,000 when renewing the programme in 2022.

Trump’s Vision for the Gold Card
Trump believes the gold card could generate massive revenue and help reduce national debt. He suggested selling one million gold cards, expecting strong demand from the world’s wealthiest individuals.

When asked about Russian eligibility, Trump replied, "Yeah, possibly. I know some Russian oligarchs who are very nice people."

Further details on the gold card programme are expected in the coming weeks.