Trump proposes controversial gold card visa for $5 million

In February 2025, Donald Trump unveiled his proposal for a 'gold card' visa that would enable individuals to gain entry into the United States through a payment of $5 million. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to reform immigration laws in the country to permit wealthier individuals to acquire residency. According to immigration experts, this initiative would require significant changes to existing immigration statutes, as legislative amendments and regulatory adjustments would be necessary to implement the scheme effectively. While some see this as an innovative approach to boost national revenues and attract affluent immigrants, others raise concerns regarding the potential influx of criminals and the implications for local communities. Historical attempts at similar programs in other countries have met with mixed results, raising questions about the feasibility and ethical considerations of such a proposal. According to Trump, the program could not only help to generate funds but could also assist in addressing the U.S. national debt, which stood at approximately $36.5 trillion at the time of his announcement. Senators like James Lankford have indicated that congressional approval would likely be necessary for long-term changes to the visa program, emphasizing the importance of thorough vetting to avoid negative effects on American society. The differing opinions on this proposal reflect a broader debate over immigration policy, national debt, and community well-being.