In February 2025, President Donald Trump floated the idea of a new visa program designed to attract wealthy foreign investors. Dubbed the “Gold Card,” this program would offer a fast track to lawful permanent residency in exchange for a $5 million investment. Trump has suggested that the revenue from this initiative could help reduce the U.S. deficit while keeping high-net-worth individuals—and their capital—inside the country.
While this proposal is generating headlines, another investor visa program, the EB-5, has long provided a structured pathway for foreign nationals seeking residency through investment. If Trump’s plan moves forward, it could disrupt or replace the EB-5 program although highly unlikely without an act of Congress. But for now, EB-5 remains the established option for those looking to invest in the U.S. and secure a green card.
What Is Trump’s Proposed "Gold Card"?
Trump’s "Gold Card" proposal is a residency-for-investment program with a $5 million price tag. While details remain unclear, Trump has positioned it as an alternative to the current EB-5 program, offering permanent residency to those who can afford the buy-in.
One significant distinction is the program’s potential focus on direct payment rather than job creation. Unlike EB-5, which requires investors to fund projects that create U.S. jobs, the "Gold Card" seems to prioritize attracting capital for government use—potentially as a deficit-reduction measure. Trump has also suggested that companies could sponsor these cards to retain foreign graduates of U.S. universities, though how this would work remains to be seen.
Without formal policy details or legislative approval, the "Gold Card" is, at this point, more of a political talking point than an actionable immigration option.
The EB-5 Visa
The EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program, established in 1990, allows foreign investors to obtain a green card by investing in U.S. businesses that create jobs. Unlike the "Gold Card," the EB-5 program has a structured regulatory framework, established regional centers that facilitate investment projects, and a history of approvals. While the program has undergone reform in recent years, it remains a viable option for investors seeking U.S. residency.
EB-5 Requirements:
- Investment Amount: $1,050,000, or $800,000 if investing in a Targeted Employment Area (rural or high-unemployment region) or with a regional center.
- Job Creation: The investment must generate at least 10 full-time jobs for U.S. workers.
- Active Investment: The investor must be involved in a new commercial enterprise, either directly or indirectly through decision making efforts.
Steps to Obtain an EB-5 Green Card:
- Select an Investment – Choose between a direct investment or a regional center project.
- File Form I-526E – Submit a petition to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to demonstrate eligibility.
- Conditional Green Card – If applying from the United States you can concurrently file for adjustment of status at the time of filing the Form I-526 E. If applying from outside the USA, you will consular process once the Form I-526 is approved. In both instances, you will receive a two-year conditional green card..
- Job Creation Compliance – After two years, prove the investment met job creation requirements and
- File Form I-829 – Submit a petition to remove conditions and receive a permanent green card.
What Should Investors Do Now?
The "Gold Card" remains speculative. It has not been formally introduced as legislation, and even if it moves forward, details could change significantly. The EB-5 program, on the other hand, continues to offer a legally established route to U.S. residency and remains authorized by Congress at least until 2027.
Given the constant changes in immigration policy, foreign investors should approach any new visa proposal with caution. Consulting with an immigration attorney is essential to evaluating options and making informed decisions.
Pollak PLLC provides legal guidance on U.S. investment visas and immigration strategy. Call (214) 305-2266 to schedule a consultation.
