Former President Donald Trump introduced a new immigration plan on Tuesday from the Oval Office, unveiling a high-priced alternative to the current residency process. His latest proposal seeks to replace the EB-5 investor visa program with a “gold card” that offers a direct route to U.S. citizenship—for a hefty fee.

Gold Card: A Fast-Track to U.S. Citizenship

Trump’s proposal reimagines the traditional investment-based immigration process by introducing a premium residency option. “We are going to be selling a gold card,” Trump announced. “We are going to be putting a price on that card of about $5 million,” signaling a major departure from the existing EB-5 system.

Under the current EB-5 program, foreign investors secure green cards by investing in American businesses that generate jobs. In contrast, the gold card would provide a more straightforward approach—granting permanent residency, and ultimately citizenship, in exchange for a one-time payment.

Green Card: The Traditional Path to Residency

The green card remains the standard authorization for non-U.S. citizens seeking permanent residency and the right to work in the United States. Introduced 35 years ago, the green card application process involves multiple steps, including an immigrant petition and the submission of Form I-485.

Historically, the concept dates back even further. The first official residency cards, issued on white paper under Form AR-3, emerged from the Alien Registration Act of 1940. Passed during World War II, this legislation required all non-citizens in the U.S. to register with the federal government. Over time, green card holders have come to be recognized as lawful permanent residents, following a rigorous qualification process.

Gold Card vs. Green Card: How They Compare

While both the gold card and the green card provide legal U.S. residency, they differ significantly in cost, process, and historical context:

• Cost & Process: The gold card would be available for a fixed price of $5 million, allowing wealthy individuals to bypass traditional immigration hurdles. The green card, on the other hand, requires applicants to navigate an extensive application and approval process, often involving employer or family sponsorship.
• Historical Background: The green card has long-standing legal precedents, rooted in mid-20th-century immigration policies. The gold card, by contrast, is a newly proposed initiative designed to simplify and expedite residency for high-net-worth individuals.
• Investor Incentive: The EB-5 program currently links residency to job creation, requiring investors to contribute to the U.S. economy. Trump’s gold card removes this requirement, instead offering a fast-tracked citizenship pathway for those who can afford it.

Trump’s proposal marks a bold shift in U.S. immigration policy, catering to affluent investors while bypassing traditional residency requirements. Whether it gains traction or faces opposition remains to be seen.