Breaking Down the New “Gold Card Visa”

“Golden visas” are nothing new, and many countries around the world allow foreign nationals to essentially buy citizenship. Some of these golden visas are easier to obtain than others, even for a relatively low price. In the United States, it is difficult to “buy citizenship,” as foreign investors need to fulfil many requirements other than simply handing over large sums of cash. However, a new proposed visa could make it easier than ever before to “buy your way in,” and it is called the “gold card visa.” What are the details of this visa program in Palm Beach County?

New Administration Floats the Idea of “Gold Card” Visa Program 

In February of 2025, the new administration announced plans to create a “gold card visa.” While the details of this new program are scarce, it would apparently involve an applicant paying $5 million USD in exchange for permanent residence. The president described it as a “route to citizenship,” suggesting that it would attract many wealthy individuals who want to live in the United States.

If this visa program ever comes into fruition, it would be one of the most expensive “golden visas” on the planet. The United States’ current “golden visa” equivalent is the EB-5 program, which grants permanent residence for those who invest between $800,000 and $1 million while also creating jobs for Americans. This new golden visa would cost at least four times as much for foreign investors.

Will the Gold Card Visa Replace the EB-5 Visa? 

In the wake of this announcement, the future of EB-5 visa became unclear. The new administration has hinted that the gold card visa would completely replace the EB-5 program. Others suggest that it would merely serve as an “alternative” to the EB-5 visa. The future of the EB-5 investor program is a serious concern for many foreign nationals who wish to settle in the United States, as it represents one of the most reliable ways for wealthy individuals to gain permanent residence.

If the EB-5 visa is replaced by the gold card visa, it could make permanent residence a much more expensive endeavor for foreign investors. If the two programs exist side-by-side, one has to wonder why anyone would choose the gold card visa over the EB-5 program. The latter is associated with lower costs, and it should be relatively easy to obtain even with the added complexity of creating American jobs. Some say the gold card could come with added “benefits,” although the specifics are not yet clear.

Can a Palm Beach County Immigration Lawyer Help Me Assess My Options? 

A Palm Beach County immigration lawyer may be able to help you assess your visa options. Although the new gold card visa is certainly an interesting concept, other options may be more viable – especially since the details of this program are not yet clear. To discuss options like the EB-5 visa, consider booking a consultation with The Devore Law Group.

Sources: 

business-standard.com/finance/personal-finance/will-trump-s-gold-card-replace-eb-5-visa-us-immigration-overhaul-explained-125022700171_1.html

theguardian.com/us-news/2025/feb/26/trump-gold-card-visa-rich-foreigners