Trump Launches the “Golden Card”: A $1 Million Fast-Track Visa Reshaping U.S. Immigration

U.S. President Donald Trump has taken a highly debated step by officially launching the “Golden Card” visa program, which grants exceptionally fast residency to wealthy foreigners willing to pay at least $1 million. The initiative has sparked intense discussion across both the United States and the international community.

Announced earlier this year, the Golden Card targets individuals who can demonstrate substantial benefit to the U.S. economy. Trump stated on social media that the program provides a direct pathway to citizenship for applicants who pass the required security screenings and emphasized that this will help American companies retain “invaluable talent.” The move coincides with a period in which Washington is tightening immigration policies—raising visa fees, increasing deportation actions, and restricting several asylum channels.

According to the program’s official website, the Golden Card offers residency in record time. Each applicant must pay $1 million, which is treated as proof of significant contribution to the country. Companies wishing to bring in foreign employees through this program must pay $2 million plus additional fees. A “platinum” version of the card, offering special tax benefits, is also expected to be introduced soon for $5 million.

Before the application process even begins, candidates are required to pay a non-refundable $15,000 processing fee. Trump has likened the Golden Card to a premium version of the existing green card system, emphasizing that it is designed for top-tier professionals and highly productive individuals.

However, the program emerges at a time when the U.S. has suspended immigration applications from 19 countries—mostly in Africa and the Middle East—under the president’s travel restrictions. The government has also halted all asylum decisions and announced a full review of thousands of cases approved during the Biden administration. Additionally, a new executive order now requires H-1B visa applicants to pay an extra $100,000.

Taken together, these policies signal a fundamental shift in U.S. immigration strategy. While wealthy and highly skilled individuals are offered accelerated pathways, lower-income migrants face increasing obstacles. Critics argue that the Golden Card marks the beginning of a new era in which immigration is no longer a right, but a premium commodity reserved for those who can afford it.