President Donald Trump has announced plans to introduce a new “Gold Card” visa program, requiring a $5 million investment from foreign nationals seeking US permanent residence, and eventual citizenship.

 

US Gold Card Visa for Investors

 

The proposed gold card would offer permanent resident privileges and a pathway to US citizenship for individuals willing to invest directly in the US economy. It is understood to replace the existing EB5 program.

President Trump emphasized that this route is designed to attract “very high-level people” who will bring substantial wealth, pay taxes and generate employment opportunities within the country.

Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick supported the initiative, stating that the gold card would address flaws in the EB-5 program, which he described as “full of nonsense, make-believe and fraud.” The administration plans to release detailed information about the gold card program within two weeks.

The proposal also comes at a time when the European Union is pressuring member states to tighten residency-by-investment programs due to concerns over minimal economic benefits and potential risks of tax evasion and corruption. This global context may influence the attractiveness of the US gold card program to international investors.

 

Differences between EB5 and Gold Card Visa

 

Details are currently lite, but at this time, we can summize some potential differences between the EB5 and a new Gold Card visa. One of the most notable differences is the required investment amount. Under the current EB-5 program, investors must contribute a minimum of $800,000 if they invest in a Targeted Employment Area (TEA) or $1.05 million for other investments. In contrast, Trump’s Gold Card Visa would require applicants to invest a minimum of $5 million, making it significantly more exclusive and limiting eligibility to ultra-high-net-worth individuals.

The EB-5 program requires investors to contribute to a job-creating U.S. business that generates at least ten full-time jobs for American workers. Many applicants fulfill this requirement by investing through Regional Centers, which pool funds for larger development projects. Trump’s proposal, however, does not specify whether Gold Card Visa applicants will need to meet a job creation requirement or whether they can invest in other forms of assets such as real estate or government bonds. If the job creation mandate is removed, the Gold Card Visa could be a much simpler process compared to EB-5.

The EB-5 program initially grants investors a conditional green card, requiring them to maintain their investment for two years before becoming eligible for permanent residency. After holding a green card for five years, EB-5 investors can apply for U.S. citizenship if they meet all the necessary residency requirements. Trump’s Gold Card Visa, however, appears to offer a more direct pathway to citizenship, though the exact details on processing time and eligibility remain unclear. If confirmed, this would make the Gold Card Visa a much faster option for foreign investors seeking U.S. citizenship compared to the EB-5 route.

 

Key considerations

 

For individuals considering the $5 million Gold Card Visa, it is essential to evaluate several key factors before beginning the application process. While full program details are yet to be released, potential applicants can take the following steps to prepare:

 

Monitor Official Announcements and Program Updates

 

The Trump administration has indicated that further details on the Gold Card Visa program will be made available within the next few weeks. Potential applicants should regularly check official government sources and consult with immigration attorneys or investment advisors to stay informed about eligibility requirements, processing timelines, and investment criteria.

 

Assess Financial and Tax Implications

 

Unlike many other investor visa programs, US residency comes with global taxation obligations. This means individuals who obtain the Gold Card Visa may be subject to US income tax on worldwide earnings. Consulting a tax advisor with expertise in international taxation is crucial to understanding the long-term financial commitments involved.

 

Evaluate Investment Options

 

While the EB-5 program required investment in job-creating enterprises, it remains unclear how the Gold Card Visa’s $5 million investment must be structured. Potential applicants should assess their existing investment portfolios and determine whether they have liquid assets available for the required investment.

 

Plan for Potential Timelines and Processing Delays

 

If the Gold Card Visa follows the EB-5 model, processing times could be lengthy, potentially exceeding 12-24 months before final approval. Applicants should factor in these timelines when making residency and financial planning decisions.

 

Seek Legal Guidance

 

As details emerge on the new route, it is highly recommended to consult US immigration attorneys to explore pathways, such as EB-5 (if still available), E-2 investor visas or other employment-based options.

 

Need assistance?

 

NNU Immigration are dedicated US attorneys, with specialist expertise in advising investors and high net worth individuals on their US visa, residency and citizenship options. To discuss routes for you to secure long-term status in the US, including this potential new Gold Card visa route, contact us.