Washington – President Donald Trump on Wednesday unveiled a new immigration initiative, the “Trump Gold Card,” through a dedicated website that offers expedited U.S. residency for a minimum payment of $1 million. The program, presented as a fast‑track alternative to traditional green‑card routes, requires a non‑refundable $15,000 processing fee for each applicant. Once a background check is completed, the applicant must submit an additional $1 million “gift” to the government as evidence that the individual will substantially benefit the United States.
A corporate version of the card is also available. Companies may sponsor foreign employees by paying the same $15,000 processing fee plus a $2 million contribution per worker. The corporate card allows employers to terminate a sponsorship and transfer it to another employee for a nominal fee, without filing a new application.
The website showcases a gold, credit‑card‑shaped token bearing a photo of President Trump. In a post on Truth Social, Trump described the initiative as “A direct path to Citizenship for all qualified and vetted people,” and added, “Our Great American Companies can finally keep their invaluable Talent.” The site promises residency “in record time,” suggesting a turnaround of just weeks.
The rollout has raised questions about the program’s viability and its legal standing, as the concept appears to create a tiered immigration system based on financial contributions. Critics point to potential conflicts with existing immigration statutes, while supporters argue the scheme could generate significant revenue for the Treasury.
The Department of Homeland Security will handle vetting, and the Department of State may impose additional fees. Applications are being accepted through the official portal, trumpcard.gov, where interested individuals and corporations can begin the process.
