Donald Trump announces ‘Gold Card’ US Visa: What it means, especially for Indians

Trump Introduces “Gold Card” Residency Permit for Wealthy Immigrants

U.S. President Donald Trump has unveiled the “Gold Card” residency permit, a new immigration pathway designed for affluent individuals seeking American citizenship. According to reports, this initiative is set to replace the existing EB-5 investor visa program, which has long been a favored route for foreign investors pursuing U.S. permanent residency.

The introduction of the Gold Card visa marks a significant shift in the U.S. immigration landscape, particularly affecting Indian applicants who previously relied on the EB-5 visa for their pathway to citizenship.

What is the Gold Card U.S. Visa?

The Gold Card visa provides a direct route to U.S. citizenship for individuals willing to invest $5 million in the country. Speaking from the Oval Office, Trump highlighted that this visa would offer the same privileges as a Green Card but with an expedited path to citizenship for those who meet the financial criteria.

“We’re going to be selling a Gold Card. You have a Green Card; this is a Gold Card. We’re going to be putting a price on that card of about $5 million,” Trump told reporters.

Impact on Indian Applicants

Indian nationals have historically been among the top beneficiaries of the EB-5 visa program, particularly H-1B visa holders looking to secure permanent residency. Under the EB-5 program, investors were required to invest at least $1.05 million (or $800,000 in targeted employment areas) to qualify for a Green Card.

With the introduction of the Gold Card visa, the financial threshold for obtaining U.S. residency has risen substantially, making it accessible only to an elite group of ultra-wealthy individuals. This shift significantly alters the landscape for Indian investors and skilled professionals aiming for permanent U.S. residence.

The Gold Card Visa: A Costly Shift for Indian Investors

Many Indian investors may feel the impact of this change, as they viewed the EB-5 program as a relatively affordable alternative to traditional employment-based visas. With the significantly higher investment requirement, mid-tier investors might be discouraged and could explore other visa categories or foreign investment opportunities instead.

Why is the EB-5 Visa Being Replaced?

Introduced in 1990, the EB-5 visa program aimed to stimulate capital investment and job creation in the United States. However, it has faced mounting criticism over allegations of fraud, misuse, and loopholes that allowed investors to gain residency without delivering the intended economic benefits.

Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick reinforced Trump's stance, stating, “The EB-5 program was nonsense and a way to get a Green Card at a low price.” Trump echoed this sentiment, announcing, “We’re going to replace this absurd program with the Trump Gold Card.”

What’s Next for the Gold Card Program?

Further details on the Gold Card visa are expected in the coming weeks, sparking widespread debate about its accessibility and impact on global investment trends. While the Trump administration argues that the new system will be more equitable, critics contend that it prioritizes wealth over merit-based immigration.

As the EB-5 visa is phased out, prospective investors will need to reassess their options. For some, the Gold Card program may provide a fast-track to U.S. citizenship—but at a premium price.