Washington: The United States on Thursday introduced a new immigration pathway called the gold card programme, offering wealthy foreign nationals a fast track to American residency in exchange for a one million dollar contribution to the government.
President Donald J. Trump formally launched the scheme as part of his administration’s wider immigration overhaul. Officials said the programme is designed to attract high net worth individuals who can bring economic benefit to the country at a time when the overall immigration system is becoming more restrictive.
Under the plan, applicants must first pay a fifteen thousand dollar processing fee and clear a background check. They must then make a one million dollar contribution described by the government as a gift. Once approved, they may become eligible for permanent residency through existing employment based visa categories such as EB1 or EB2.
The government said nearly ten thousand people signed up during a pre launch registration period, signalling strong interest from global investors. A higher tier option, called the platinum card, is expected in the future and may require a contribution of five million dollars, although officials have not given a timeline for its release.
There is also a corporate version of the gold card that allows companies to fast track foreign employees by making a two million dollar contribution for each worker.
Supporters argue that the programme could raise billions of dollars and bring in individuals who can support national economic goals. Critics warn that the plan may blur the line between legal immigration and the sale of residency rights, and some legal experts question whether such a system fits within existing U S immigration law.
The Department of Homeland Security has submitted a draft application form to the federal budget office for review, a key step before processing can begin. Officials say the government will monitor early applications closely to ensure the programme meets legal standards and delivers the economic benefits it promises.
More updates are expected as the application process moves forward and as lawmakers and legal groups respond to the new policy.