Trump offers US residency for $5 million investment
President Trump's recent proposal introduces a "Gold Card" visa program, offering ultra-wealthy individuals a streamlined path to U.S. residency and eventual citizenship in exchange for a $5 million investment.
Key Features of the Gold Card Visa:
- Investment Requirement: Applicants must contribute $5 million directly to the U.S. government.
- Residency and Citizenship: The program provides permanent residency with a pathway to full citizenship.
- Economic Impact: The initiative aims to attract affluent investors, potentially generating significant revenue to reduce the national debt.
Comparison with the EB-5 Visa Program:
The existing EB-5 visa requires an investment ranging from $800,000 to $1.8 million, along with the creation of at least 10 jobs. The Gold Card visa, however, eliminates the job creation mandate, focusing solely on the substantial financial contribution.
Considerations:
- Housing Market Impact: Experts caution that the influx of wealthy investors could drive up property prices, exacerbating housing affordability issues.
- Vetting Process: The program intends to implement strict vetting to ensure that only top global citizens are accepted, addressing concerns about potential misuse.
This proposal reflects a shift in U.S. immigration policy, emphasizing economic investment as a criterion for residency. Prospective applicants should monitor official channels for further details and updates.