Trump Unveils $1M 'Gold Card' Visa for Foreign Talent, Opening Path to US Citizenship
Announcing the launch of the card, Trump said it is “somewhat like a green card, but with big advantages over a green card.”
In a move aimed at attracting top global talent, US President Donald Trump has launched the 'Gold Card' visa program. This initiative allows foreign nationals to obtain permanent-resident status by making a significant donation to the US Treasury. Moreover, companies can retain skilled foreign workers through corporate sponsorship, purchasing a 'Gold Card' that enables them to keep the employee in the United States.
Trump described the 'Gold Card' as a 'somewhat upgraded version of a green card,' offering several advantages. Under the program, applicants must pay a $15,000 processing fee and donate $1 million to the US Treasury after a vetting process. This donation serves as proof that the individual will significantly contribute to the US economy. Companies, on the other hand, must pay a $15,000 processing fee per employee and a $2 million gift per employee. They can also use the previously donated amount to sponsor a new employee without requiring an additional $2 million gift.
The benefits of the 'Gold Card' include expedited processing, the ability to sponsor new employees using previous donations, and the option to keep skilled foreign workers in the United States. However, the program comes with annual maintenance fees and transfer fees, which include the cost of a new background check by the Department of Homeland Security.
The 'Gold Card' website has been launched, and the White House is now accepting online applications. This move is seen as an attempt to attract top global talent and boost the US economy.