Washington, D.C. — President Donald J. Trump has signed a sweeping executive order introducing the “Gold Card,” a new visa program designed to prioritize wealthy entrepreneurs, investors, and business leaders as part of his administration’s ongoing overhaul of U.S. immigration policy.
The move marks a dramatic shift from what Trump described as the “disastrous” immigration policies of the previous administration, which he said opened America’s borders to millions of illegal entrants, endangering public safety, national security, and the rule of law. According to the president, open-border policies enabled international cartels, transnational criminal organizations, terrorists, and foreign adversaries to exploit the nation’s immigration system.
In addition, Trump criticized what he called the “abuse of the refugee process,” which he said overwhelmed local towns and cities, forcing some communities to declare emergencies. His administration, he emphasized, is committed to realigning immigration policy with the “Nation’s interests” by halting illegal immigration and encouraging only those who provide clear, affirmative benefits to the United States.
The Gold Card Program
The newly established Gold Card program will be overseen by the Secretary of Commerce in coordination with the Secretaries of State and Homeland Security. The program allows foreign nationals to obtain an expedited immigrant visa by making what the order describes as a “significant financial gift” to the United States.
The required amounts are set at $1 million for individuals applying on their own behalf, and $2 million for corporations or similar entities applying on behalf of an individual. Contributions will be deposited in a separate fund within the Department of the Treasury, with the Department of Commerce authorized to use the money to promote U.S. commerce and industry.
Visa adjudication under the Gold Card program will recognize such financial gifts as evidence of eligibility for categories including “extraordinary ability,” “exceptional business ability,” and “national-interest waiver” provisions outlined under existing immigration statutes.
Implementation and Expansion
Within 90 days, the Departments of Commerce, State, and Homeland Security must establish a full framework for implementing the Gold Card. This includes creating a streamlined application and adjudication process, setting the date when gifts may begin to be submitted, and introducing expedited status adjustments for qualifying applicants.
Corporations or entities sponsoring individuals will also be allowed to transfer a Gold Card to a different person, provided the original financial gift remains valid as evidence of eligibility under the same statutory provisions. Transfers, however, will be subject to the same national security and public safety screenings as original applications.
The program will also include administrative fees for expedited processing, as well as maintenance and transfer fees for corporate sponsors. Federal officials are directed to consider the possibility of expanding the Gold Card to applicants under other employment-based visa categories, including those covered by investor visas.
Legal and Administrative Framework
The executive order emphasizes that its provisions must be carried out consistent with existing laws, budgetary limits, and the statutory authorities of federal agencies. It also includes a severability clause ensuring that, if any section is deemed invalid, the remainder of the order will remain in effect.
The order specifies that it does not create any enforceable right or benefit for individuals against the federal government or its agencies. Publication costs for the order will be borne by the Department of Commerce.
President Trump concluded by reiterating his administration’s commitment to prioritizing immigration that directly benefits American commerce and national interest.
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