President Trump Unveils New “Gold Card” Investor Visa Program, Replacing EB-5 Visa
In a significant move aimed at overhauling the U.S. immigration system, President Donald Trump announced a new “Gold Card” investor visa program during a press briefing at the Oval Office. The initiative, designed to attract wealthy immigrants and highly skilled professionals, will replace the existing EB-5 visa program. The Gold Card will offer expedited immigration privileges to individuals who invest $5 million in U.S. companies, providing a streamlined pathway to residency and addressing the uncertainties surrounding work visas and green cards.
President Trump described the Gold Card as an “upgrade” from the current green card system, offering enhanced benefits and privileges. “This program will ensure that highly talented individuals can contribute to our economy without the delays and uncertainties of the current immigration process,” Trump stated. He emphasized that the initiative would address the challenges faced by professionals on H-1B visas, who often endure decades-long waits for permanent residency.
Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick elaborated on the details, explaining that the Gold Card program will replace the EB-5 visa, which currently grants immigration privileges to investors who contribute between $800,000 and $1.05 million to job-creating projects in designated areas. The new program, set to launch in two weeks, aims to streamline the process and attract higher levels of investment.
The announcement has sparked mixed reactions, with proponents praising the potential economic benefits and critics questioning the accessibility of the program for smaller investors. As the U.S. prepares to roll out the Gold Card initiative, the global community watches closely to see how this bold move will reshape immigration and investment landscapes.
