The Digest:
President Donald Trump has launched a new immigration programme called the ‘Trump Gold Card,’ which allows foreign nationals to expedite their US residency application in exchange for a $1 million contribution. The programme went live on Wednesday on a dedicated government website, trumpcard.gov.
Key Points:
- The process begins with a $15,000 non-refundable processing fee paid to the Department of Homeland Security.
- After background checks, a $1 million contribution is required for individuals; companies sponsoring a foreign worker must pay $2 million.
- Approved applicants receive permanent residency through EB-1 or EB-2 visas, categories reserved for individuals with “extraordinary” or “exceptional” abilities.
- The administration also announced a forthcoming ‘Platinum Card’ option for a $5 million contribution, offering significant US tax breaks.
- Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick stated the programme aims to replace the existing EB-5 investor visa and attract “extraordinary people at the very top.”
- Officials criticised the traditional green card system for bringing in the “bottom quartile” of immigrants.
- The administration projects the scheme could generate up to $1 trillion to help reduce the national debt.
Rooted in the Storm.
Sources: White House announcement, official programme website
Tags: Donald Trump, US Immigration, Gold Card Visa, EB-5 Visa,
