Former U.S. President Donald Trump has announced a new Gold Card Visa Program as an alternative to the EB-5 visa. This program offers wealthy foreigners an easier way to settle in the U.S. and is expected to increase government revenue.
What is the Gold Card?
Trump’s plan aims to make getting U.S. citizenship easier for those who have $5 million (about ₹44 crore) to invest. The Gold Card will be launched in two weeks and will allow foreign investors to settle in the U.S. faster than the traditional Green Card process, which takes several years.
Why is Trump Introducing This Plan?
This announcement comes at a time when the U.S. government is cracking down on illegal immigrants. Currently, about 15% of the U.S. population consists of immigrants, with India, Mexico, and China being the top contributors. Around 3% of the U.S. population is estimated to be undocumented immigrants.
The EB-5 visa, introduced in 1990, allows foreigners to live, work, and invest in the U.S. while creating jobs for Americans. In 2025, around 19,000 EB-5 visas are expected to be issued.
How Will the Gold Card Help the U.S. Economy?
Trump believes selling 1 million Gold Cards will generate significant revenue for the U.S. As of February 24, 2025, the U.S. national debt stood at $36.22 trillion. The funds from the Gold Card program are expected to help reduce this debt.
Will This Make Immigration Easier for Illegal Migrants?
Many Indians use illegal routes (Dunki Route) to enter the U.S. every year, often spending ₹50 lakh to ₹1 crore to get there through agents. However, the Gold Card is not an alternative for them, as it requires an investment of $5 million.
For wealthy Indians, the Gold Card will be a game-changer, offering faster and easier U.S. citizenship. If implemented, this program will likely replace the EB-5 visa.
Types of U.S. Work-Based Visas
The U.S. offers several employment-based visas, including:
- EB-1 Visa: For individuals with extraordinary abilities in science, arts, education, research, business, or sports.
- EB-2 Visa: For professionals with advanced degrees (doctorate or at least five years of experience after graduation).
- EB-3 Visa: For skilled workers, professionals, and other laborers.
- EB-4 Visa: For special immigrants, including religious workers, U.S. government employees, and ministers.
Conclusion
Trump’s Gold Card plan is set to make U.S. citizenship faster and easier for wealthy investors, while also boosting government revenue. However, it will not provide an easy path for illegal migrants. Wealthy Indians looking to settle in the U.S. may find this program a major opportunity.
