President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Friday establishing the "Gold Card" immigration program, a novel avenue for foreigners to secure permanent residency (green card) and eventually citizenship, in exchange for a substantial donation to the U.S. government. This initiative is pitched by the administration as a mechanism to draw wealthy entrepreneurs, investors, and individuals, aiming to boost state revenues and stimulate the economy. However, it faces legal scrutiny as it is considered illegal since the executive branch lacks authority to create new visa categories.
The move is accompanied by a significant hike in fees for the popular H-1B visa, now requiring an annual payment of $100,000 from companies wishing to hire highly skilled foreign workers. This increase could exclude thousands of professionals, including Latinos and Cubans, who lack financial backing.
Understanding Trump's "Gold Card"
The Trump administration's Gold Card program offers foreigners priority processing for their visas if they provide a direct financial contribution:
Foreign applicants must make an "unrestricted" donation of at least $1 million to the Department of Commerce. If a business sponsors the candidate, the required amount rises to $2 million. Additionally, a processing fee of $15,000 is required. Those approved will receive permanent residency (green card) with a pathway to citizenship.
The administration will treat this donation as "evidence of exceptional professional ability and national benefit." Upon approval, recipients will gain permanent residency and can apply for citizenship, using the donation as proof of "exceptional business capability and national benefit," as outlined in the program.
Funding the Government Through Donations
The funds collected will be managed by the Department of Commerce and funneled into a Treasury fund aimed at promoting U.S. industry and trade. Secretary of Commerce, Howard Lutnick, stated that the program could generate billions of dollars.
Support and Criticism
The White House argues that the measure is a strategy to attract talent and capital. Proponents believe it will stimulate the economy by bringing in new investors, raise revenues without increasing taxes, attract high-potential entrepreneurs, and reverse previous immigration policies deemed "failures" by the current administration.
However, the program has faced sharp criticism from legal experts, economists, and pro-immigrant organizations.
Legal and Ethical Concerns
Legal Uncertainty: Several immigration law experts warn that the president lacks the authority to create a new visa category without Congressional approval. Substantially altering programs like the EB-5—intended to be replaced by this new scheme—would also require legislation.
System for the Wealthy: Critics argue that the "Gold Card" turns immigration into a privilege for millionaires, excluding skilled workers, refugees, and families.
Potential for Corruption: Some caution that the program could attract individuals seeking to launder money or hide assets.
Limited Economic Impact: Economists argue that focusing solely on substantial wealth overlooks the economic value of other immigrants and may weaken key sectors like agriculture, construction, or elder care.
A Broader Immigration Reform Effort
The "Gold Card" program is part of broader efforts by the Trump administration to reform immigration. These efforts include a new $100,000 fee for the H-1B visa, affecting highly qualified foreign professionals, and stricter restrictions on family reunification and asylum.
The measure, still subject to potential legal challenges, is part of a wider strategy to shift immigration policy towards economic and security criteria, at the expense of the traditional focus on merit, family ties, or humanitarian reasons.
FAQs on Trump's Gold Card Immigration Program
What is the Gold Card program introduced by Trump?
The Gold Card program is an initiative by the Trump administration that allows foreigners to obtain U.S. permanent residency and eventually citizenship by making a substantial financial donation to the government.
How much must foreigners donate to participate in the Gold Card program?
Foreign applicants need to make an unrestricted donation of at least $1 million to the Department of Commerce. If sponsored by a business, the donation requirement increases to $2 million.
What are the criticisms of the Gold Card program?
Critics argue that the Gold Card program turns immigration into a privilege for the wealthy, potentially invites corruption, and could have limited economic impact by ignoring the contributions of other immigrant groups.