Trump Gold Card visa program set to launch with $5 million price tag

In May 2025, the U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick revealed that the Trump Gold Card visa program is expected to be available online shortly. The Gold Card, which requires an investment of $5 million, is designed to attract wealthy foreigners aspiring to gain U.S. citizenship. During an interview at the Axios event, Lutnick emphasized the opportunity the program provides for successful entrepreneurs to contribute to the American economy. The initiative aims to generate significant federal revenue and bolster economic growth. Furthermore, applicants will undergo a thorough vetting process to ensure they embody characteristics conducive to American values and business development. The Gold Card program proposes a strategic solution to the U.S.'s immigration challenges, aiming to balance wealth generation with national security concerns. The administration believes that bringing in wealthy, job-creating immigrants can serve as a beneficial alternative to conventional visa applications, which are often fraught with complications and lengthy processing times. Lutnick noted that the initiative's scope resonates with Trump's vision of ensuring that successful individuals from around the world have an accessible pathway to American citizenship. There are potential concerns surrounding this program, including allegations of possible fraud and the implications for national security. Critics have warned that any immigrant incentive system could attract individuals looking to exploit loopholes. Nevertheless, Lutnick reassured that all applicants would be screened meticulously, asserting that those who qualify for the program would represent a positive force for the United States economically and socially. In comparison to the traditional EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program established in 1990, which also focuses on incentivizing foreign investments, the Trump Gold Card’s pricing is significantly higher and aims to streamline the investment process. While there are existing programs in place to support a limited number of wealthy immigrants, this initiative intends to expand the pool significantly by enabling more foreign nationals to purchase their way into citizenship, thereby contributing directly to the economy through substantial financial contributions and business ventures.