Washington, 4 April 2025 – In a move that has stirred global debate, U.S. President Donald Trump has formally launched a premium residency permit scheme dubbed the “Gold Card”, priced at a staggering $5 million per applicant. The announcement was made aboard Air Force One on Thursday, where the President proudly displayed a prototype card featuring his own portrait and the words “The Trump Card” etched prominently across its surface.
“I’m the first buyer. Pretty exciting, huh?” Trump quipped to reporters, holding up the card and smiling for the cameras. He stated that the visa would be officially available “in less than two weeks.”
The initiative is being pitched as an elite version of the traditional U.S. green card and is positioned to attract ultra-high-net-worth individuals, particularly global investors and job creators. According to President Trump, proceeds from the programme could be utilised to tackle the national deficit and inject investment into the U.S. economy.
At a Glance: The U.S. ‘Gold Card’ Visa
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Visa Name | Gold Card (official branding: The Trump Card) |
| Cost per Visa | $5 million (USD) |
| Target Group | Ultra-wealthy individuals, job creators |
| Citizenship Pathway | Yes – potential route to U.S. citizenship |
| Expected Launch | Within two weeks |
| First Buyer | Donald Trump himself |
| Eligibility | Open to global buyers; Russians not excluded |
While the proposal has garnered interest from wealthy investors globally, it has also sparked criticism. Many immigration advocates and political commentators are questioning the ethics of effectively “selling” residency and citizenship, especially as Trump’s second-term immigration policy continues to focus on the mass deportation of undocumented migrants and tightening border control.
Critics argue that such a policy creates a two-tiered immigration system, privileging the rich while marginalising vulnerable groups seeking asylum or better opportunities in the United States.
The President previously stated in February that his administration hopes to sell “maybe a million” of the Gold Cards. When asked whether oligarchs—including those from Russia—would be eligible, Trump did not rule them out.
Public Reactions and Concerns
Supporters of the programme highlight its potential to generate billions in revenue, stimulate foreign investment, and bring job creators to the U.S.
Opponents label the move as opportunistic and elitist, warning it undermines the traditional values associated with American citizenship and fair immigration.
Immigration scholars are also raising concerns about national security and the potential misuse of such a high-value visa, particularly in geopolitically sensitive contexts.
The Gold Card initiative is likely to remain in the spotlight in the weeks ahead, with both the domestic electorate and the international community closely watching how it unfolds—and who the first real buyers will be beyond President Trump himself.
