On September 19, 2025, Donald J. Trump signed another executive order, officially launching the “Gold Card” visa program. The program is designed to expedite U.S. permanent residency for individuals who make a substantial financial gift to the United States.

What’s the Deal?

Here are the core components of the program:

  • An individual applicant must commit an unrestricted gift of $1 million to the U.S. Department of Commerce. There’s also the option of a corporation or similar entity contributing $2 million on behalf of an individual. 
  • There is a non-refundable application/processing fee of approximately $15,000 per applicant. 
  • The request is treated as evidence of eligibility under existing employment-based preference categories: specifically, it may satisfy criteria for the EB-1 (extraordinary ability) or EB-2 (national interest waiver) immigrant visa categories. 
  • The program will be implemented by the Departments of Commerce, State, and Homeland Security by December 18, 2025 per the Executive Order.

Why It’s Different from Other Investor Visas

  • Unlike the older EB-5 investor program (which required an investment in a commercial enterprise and job creation), the Gold Card focuses on a “gift” to the U.S. Treasury—shifting the paradigm from investment/job creation to significant contribution. 
  • It is framed as an expedited route to permanent residency, not merely a temporary stay permit.  
  • For individuals or companies with the means and the desire to invest in the U.S., this may provide a smoother path, with high cost and strict eligibility. 

Current Status: What We Know & What We Don’t

  • USCIS has already sent a draft Form I-140G (for the Gold Card program) to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), a key step toward enactment. 
  • The program details are not fully published yet. For example: how many visas will be available, what exact documentation will be required, how the “gift” will be structured, and how job or economic-activity requirements may still apply. 
  • The Order sets the December 18 deadline to launch, but until the regulations and forms are officially published, applicants should proceed with cautious planning. 

Should You Consider the Gold Card?

If you’re a high-net-worth individual or a corporation that can dedicate a gift of $1 million (individual) or $2 million (corporate sponsor), the Gold Card may offer a new route to U.S. residency, especially if you:

  • Already have global business or investment experience; 
  • Are seeking flexibility and permanence in U.S. immigration status; 
  • Are comfortable with high cost and substantial vetting; and 
  • Want to act now while rules and supply may still be opening. 

If you don’t meet the “gift” threshold or prefer a different visa path (such as EB-1A, EB-2 NIW, or E-2), don’t worry, those options remain valid.

Bottom Line

The Gold Card program is a major shift in U.S. immigration policy, emphasizing substantial economic contribution in return for residency eligibility. However, it is still in its early stages. Strict eligibility, evolving rules, and high cost mean it’s not for everyone. We recommend consulting an immigration attorney and monitoring official program guidance closely.

At Garvish Immigration Law Group, we are closely monitoring the rollout of the Gold Card program and any regulatory updates that follow. Our experienced attorneys are here to guide you through the complexities of U.S. immigration law and help determine whether this new pathway, or another existing option is the best fit for your situation.