In a move that is already sending ripples across global immigration and investment circles, former U.S. President Donald Trump has officially launched his highly discussed “Gold Card Program”, offering foreign nationals a streamlined pathway to U.S. residency in exchange for a minimum investment of $1 million per person. The initiative, which Trump positioned as a “revitalisation tool for American economic strength,” marks one of the most ambitious investor-visa models ever proposed in the United States.
According to early program details, applicants will be required to invest in sectors such as real estate, manufacturing, infrastructure, or technology, industries Trump believes are pivotal for restoring America’s competitive edge. In exchange, eligible investors will enjoy faster visa processing, potential residency rights, and access to special business opportunities in approved zones across the country. The program resembles the existing EB-5 investor route but is being promoted as significantly faster, simpler, and more transparent.
Economists suggest that the scheme could bring tens of billions of dollars into the U.S. economy if adopted widely, especially from high-net-worth individuals in Asia, the Middle East, and parts of Europe. Business groups have also cautiously welcomed the move, calling it a “strategic financial magnet” at a time when global markets remain unstable. However, critics argue that such pay-for-entry programs raise fairness questions and risk transforming immigration into a luxury privilege accessible only to the ultra-rich.
Supporters of Trump’s plan emphasise its potential to fuel job creation and encourage long-term investment. Given the recent slowdown in U.S. real estate and manufacturing, the program could help inject much-needed capital into these sectors. Some analysts also believe the scheme could become a major draw for investors seeking political and economic stability, particularly after years of turbulent conditions in global markets.
On the political front, the announcement has sparked intense debate. Immigration advocates warn that the program may overshadow pathways for skilled workers and families, while Trump supporters argue it is a business-forward approach consistent with his previous policies.
As applications prepare to open, the world is watching closely. Whether this bold initiative becomes a turning point in U.S. immigration strategy, or a lightning rod for controversy, remains to be seen. What is clear, however, is that Trump’s “Gold Card” program has already ignited a global conversation about the future of investment-driven migration.
