Across the world, countries offer residency or citizenship by investment, allowing affluent individuals to legally live, work, and prosper in stable, developed nations. The United States is no exception. Through the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program, foreign nationals can obtain U.S. residency by making a significant investment in the economy.
Recently, a new proposal—Trump’s “Gold Card”—aims to reshape this landscape. This blog explores the current EB-5 program, the proposed Gold Card, and what these immigration-by-investment options mean for the future.
The EB-5 visa was created in 1990 to stimulate the U.S. economy through job creation and capital investment. Investors (and their families) can qualify for a green card by investing in a U.S. business and creating jobs.
Applicants must submit evidence that:
A 2-year conditional green card is issued upon approval.
After maintaining lawful permanent resident status for 5 years, EB-5 visa holders may apply for U.S. citizenship through naturalization.
Donald Trump recently proposed a new visa program called the “Trump Gold Card.” The aim is to offer wealthy individuals a fast-track route to U.S. residency or citizenship in exchange for a $5 million investment, without a job creation requirement.
According to reports, this program would:
| Criteria | EB-5 Investor Visa | Trump Gold Card |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum Investment | $800,000–$1,050,000 | $5,000,000 |
| Job Creation Required | Yes, minimum of 10 full-time U.S. jobs | No |
| Residency Timeline | Several years (with conditions) | Proposed to be faster |
| Visa Cap | Yes (e.g., ~18,786 in FY2025) | No cap proposed |
| Legal Status | Lawfully enacted by Congress | Not law yet — only a proposal |
| Risk of Misuse | Regulated but has seen misuse in past | Potential concern: wealth-based citizenship |
Unlikely—at least not immediately. The EB-5 program is legislatively backed by Congress. The President cannot unilaterally repeal or replace it. Any changes must pass through Congress.
However, the Gold Card proposal signals a political push toward wealth-based immigration, which has sparked intense debate:
The EB-5 visa has enabled thousands to start a new life in the U.S., create jobs, and contribute to society. It’s not without flaws—backlogs, fraud, and delays are real. But it is structured, tested, and enforceable.
The Trump Gold Card, if passed, could disrupt this model by prioritizing money over merit. While both programs aim to stimulate the economy, they raise critical questions:
Should wealth alone be a ticket to American residency?
Whether you're a foreign investor seeking U.S. residency or a business exploring capital through EB-5, we can help.
Contact Rathee Law Firm today to explore your options, understand your obligations, and secure your future in the United States.
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