Trump Launches $1 Mln “Gold Card” Visa

President Donald Trump has unveiled a new programme offering fast-tracked US visas to wealthy foreigners willing to pay at least $1 mln (£750,000).

The so-called Trump Gold Card is designed to give buyers «a direct path to Citizenship for all qualified and vetted people. SO EXCITING! Our Great American Companies can finally keep their invaluable Talent,» Trump wrote on social media.

The scheme targets individuals who can demonstrate they will provide a «substantial benefit» to the United States, according to the official website. It promises US residency in «record time» for a $1 mln fee, with businesses sponsoring employees required to pay $2 mln. A $5 mln «platinum» version offering tax incentives will also be available. Applicants must also pay a non-refundable $15,000 processing fee, and extra government charges may apply depending on circumstances.

Critics have raised concerns that the programme disproportionately favours wealthy individuals. The Gold Card is aimed at high-level professionals, with Trump saying, «we want people that are productive,» and suggesting those able to pay $5 mln will create jobs.

The announcement comes amid a broader US immigration crackdown. The administration has raised work visa fees, deported undocumented migrants, paused applications from 19 countries under the travel ban, and frozen decisions on asylum cases approved under the Biden administration. In September, Trump introduced a $100,000 fee for new H-1B visa applicants currently abroad, causing concern among international students and technology firms.

The Gold Card scheme has been compared to a green card, which allows permanent residency and eventual citizenship, but is specifically aimed at high-income individuals who can invest in the US economy.

Kursiv also reports that tourists from dozens of countries, including the UK, could soon have to provide a five-year history of their social media activity before entering the United States.