The Trump Administration’s new “Gold Card” program is scheduled to launch on December 18, 2025, offering a fast-track route to U.S. permanent residence for individuals and companies willing to make a substantial financial contribution to the federal government. Framed as an American version of the “golden visa” programs used abroad, the Gold Card is generating intense interest and equally intense debate.
While marketed as a brand-new avenue for obtaining lawful permanent residence, the Gold Card actually functions within the existing and challenging EB-1 and EB-2 immigrant visa categories. This means (if approved) applicants will ultimately receive green cards under congressionally created classifications, even though the mechanism for qualifying under them is entirely new.
As Managing Partner Rosanna Berardi, Esq., explains, “Any time a high-dollar immigration option comes online, clients need a clear-eyed assessment of risk versus reward. The Gold Card may be fast, but it’s not simple…and it’s not guaranteed.”
How the Gold Card Program Works
Individual Applicants: A $1 Million “Gift” to the U.S. Government
Under Executive Order 14351, individual applicants must make a non-refundable $1 million financial contribution to the Department of Commerce, along with an estimated $15,000 processing fee. This contribution is not an investment, does not generate returns, and cannot be recovered. Its sole purpose is to demonstrate immediate economic benefit to the United States.
Additional eligibility requirements include:
- National security vetting and background checks
- Verification of the lawful source of funds
- Potential additional contributions for dependent family members
Only after USCIS clears the applicant will they be permitted to submit the donation and file a specialized immigrant petition.
Corporate-Sponsored Applicants: A $2 Million Contribution Per Employee
Employers may sponsor foreign workers by making a $2 million contribution per beneficiary, with the possibility (still being outlined) of reallocating that sponsorship slot if the employee leaves the company.
This “Corporate Gold Card” model is designed for multinational employers seeking a predictable and expedited green card pathway for executives or specialized talent. Ongoing compliance obligations and possible annual maintenance fees are expected.
No New Visa Category, Just a New Way to Qualify
The Gold Card does not create a brand-new immigrant visa. Instead, it allows USCIS and the State Department to treat the financial contribution as enough to satisfy EB-1 extraordinary ability or EB-2 exceptional ability/national interest waiver standards.
This means:
- Applicants receive a green card as EB-1 or EB-2 immigrants
- The Gold Card label is simply an administrative shorthand
- Visa backlogs and per-country caps still apply
A wealthy applicant from India or China may still face years-long delays if EB-1 or EB-2 visa numbers are not available.
Gold Card Application Process and Expected Timeline
While the implementing regulations are still being finalized, the anticipated steps include:
- Filing an initial Gold Card application with the processing fee
- Completion of USCIS background, admissibility, and financial vetting
- Invitation to submit the $1-2 million contribution
- Filing of an I-140G immigrant petition
- Consular processing or adjustment of status
- Admission to the U.S. as a lawful permanent resident
The administration has promised expedited processing, how fast this will be in practice remains to be seen.
Related But Separate: The Proposed “Platinum Card”
The administration is also promoting a higher-tier Platinum Card, expected to require a $5 million contribution and offer up to 270 days per year in the U.S. with favorable tax treatment.
Important distinction:
- The Platinum Card does NOT provide a green card
- Implementation would require tax law changes Congress has not passed
For now, the Platinum Card remains aspirational; interesting, but not actionable.
Will the Gold Card Survive Legal Challenges?
Experts expect lawsuits almost immediately after implementation. Prominent criticisms include:
- The program may exceed executive authority
- It arguably converts green cards into purchasable assets
- It could unfairly prioritize paying applicants over traditional EB-1/EB-2 filers
Litigation could delay, modify, or potentially halt the program. This legal uncertainty is one of the biggest risks prospective applicants must weigh.
Possible Impact on Other Green Card Categories
Because EB-1 and EB-2 visa numbers are capped each year, Gold Card approvals will consume visa numbers that would otherwise be available for:
- Scientists, engineers, researchers
- International managers
- Professionals with advanced degrees
- National interest waiver applicants
If the Gold Card becomes popular, backlogs could worsen, particularly for India and China.
On the other hand, the EB-5 investor program, which requires job creation, may remain a more stable and predictable investment-based path for some applicants.
Is the Gold Card Worth It? Key Factors to Consider
This pathway may appeal to:
- High-net-worth individuals from non-backlogged countries
- Companies needing fast green card solutions for executives or specialists
However, applicants should be prepared for:
- Legal Risk – Program could be challenged or halted.
- Quota Risk – Visa numbers may not be immediately available.
- Financial Risk – Contribution is non-refundable.
- Reputational and Compliance Risk – Full transparency of source of funds is required.
For most individuals and employers, traditional EB-1, EB-2/NIW, EB-3, or EB-5 options will still be the best fit.
Proceed With Caution On Gold and Platinum Cards
A New Door Is Opening, But It’s Not Without Uncertainty
The Trump Gold Card program is one of the most unconventional shifts in employment-based immigration in decades. It offers speed, simplicity, and predictability…for those who can afford it. But it also comes with untested legal foundations, a real risk of litigation, and no guarantees on timing or long-term viability.
At Berardi Immigration Law, our team is closely monitoring every announcement, draft regulation, and policy memo tied to this program. We can help you evaluate whether the Gold Card is truly the best option, or whether a more established pathway will better serve your goals.
If you’re considering the Gold Card or want to explore U.S. immigration strategies for yourself, your family, or your workforce, now is the time to begin planning. Our attorneys are ready to guide you through this evolving landscape. Click here to book your consultation today.
Trump Gold Card FAQs
Does the Gold Card guarantee a green card?
No. Applicants must still clear USCIS vetting, qualify under EB-1 or EB-2 rules, and wait for a visa to become available.
Is the financial contribution refundable if my case is denied?
No. Both individual and corporate contributions are non-refundable.
Will a Gold Card help me skip visa backlogs?
Not necessarily. Per-country caps still apply, meaning applicants from India and China may still face delays.
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