US Immigration Adds New Visa Question: Be Prepared

As of May 2025, the U.S. immigration process has incorporated a new element known as the "Trump Card Visa", also referred to as the "Trump Gold Card" or "Golden Visa". This initiative, introduced by President Donald Trump in February 2025, offers a pathway to U.S. residency and citizenship for foreign nationals who invest $5 million directly into the U.S. government.

Integration into Immigration Forms

The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has updated the Global Entry application form to include a question regarding the Trump Card Visa. Applicants are now asked if they have "submitted an application for a Trump Card Visa." This addition signifies the program's integration into existing immigration systems, despite the absence of formal legislative approval.

Overview of the Trump Card Visa

• Investment Requirement: A direct payment of $5 million to the U.S. government.
• Benefits: Grants "green card privileges-plus," including permanent residency and a pathway to citizenship.
• Tax Implications: Holders are exempt from U.S. taxes on income generated outside the country but are subject to taxes on U.S.-sourced income.
• Design: The physical card features President Trump's image and design elements reminiscent of U.S. currency.

Program Implementation and Sales

• Sales Figures: Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick reported that 1,000 Gold Cards have been sold to date.
• Projected Sales: President Trump has estimated potential sales of up to one million cards.
• Revenue Goals: The administration aims to generate significant revenue to reduce the national debt, with projections suggesting that selling 200,000 cards could raise $1 trillion.

Technological Infrastructure

The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), established by President Trump, is spearheading the development of the digital infrastructure for the Trump Card Visa. Elon Musk is collaborating with DOGE to create a dedicated website and streamline the application process, integrating the program with existing immigration systems like Global Entry.

Legal and Ethical Considerations

• Legality: The Trump Card Visa has not been authorized by Congress, raising questions about its legal standing.
• Comparison to EB-5 Visa: Unlike the EB-5 program, which requires job creation and investments in specific areas, the Trump Card Visa has no such stipulations, potentially allowing wealthy individuals to bypass traditional immigration requirements.
• Criticism: Critics argue that the program could enable affluent individuals, including foreign oligarchs, to "buy" U.S. citizenship, undermining the principles of fairness and equity in the immigration system.

Global Context

The Trump Card Visa aligns with similar "golden visa" programs in other countries, which offer residency or citizenship in exchange for substantial investments. However, the high cost and lack of traditional requirements distinguish it from existing U.S. programs.