Lawyers across the U.S., including the team at Saluja Law, are fielding an influx of calls from high-net-worth individuals curious about a flashy new pathway to U.S. residency: the so-called Trump Gold Card.

Proposed by former President Donald Trump, the Gold Card is being pitched as an ultra-premium alternative to the traditional green card—targeted at the ultra-wealthy willing to pay $5 million for the privilege of living and working in the United States. According to Trump, the funds generated from this program would be used to reduce the federal deficit, and possibly even help pay down the national debt.

But what exactly is this "Gold Card," and how does it differ from existing immigration options?

What Is the Trump Gold Card?

In its simplest form, the Gold Card is a proposed $5 million donation-based visa that grants permanent residency to wealthy foreign nationals. Unlike the EB-5 visa, which requires an investment in a U.S. business that creates jobs, the Gold Card is not linked to any economic development requirement. It's not an investment—it's a gift to the U.S. Treasury.

The pitch is simple: pay $5 million, receive a fast-track green card with potential “VIP-like” privileges (though details remain vague), and gain the ability to reside and work in the U.S. without the bureaucratic hurdles that come with most immigration pathways.

Why the Interest?

At Saluja Law, we've noticed that many of the individuals expressing interest in the Gold Card are not just drawn by the residency itself, but also by the status and perceived perks associated with it. These include:

• Expedited permanent residency

• Favorable tax treatment (only taxed on U.S. earnings)

• Potential VIP travel and customs clearance benefits

• Long-term stability amid global uncertainty

High-net-worth clients from India, Pakistan, China, and beyond are reportedly eager to explore the card as a lifestyle and mobility tool—one more luxury asset in their global portfolio.

What's the Catch?

While the card may sound glamorous, the reality is more nuanced:

1. No Financial Return: Unlike EB-5 or similar investment-based visas in countries like Portugal or Malta, there is no return on the $5 million. It's purely a donation with no economic upside.

2. Legal Ambiguity: As of now, it is unclear whether such a program can be legally enacted without congressional approval. Immigration is an area where the executive branch's authority has limits.

3. Vetting Concerns: While Trump insists that applicants would be "carefully vetted," immigration experts have raised concerns based on similar programs abroad, which have been magnets for money laundering and other illicit activities.

4. Public Perception: Selling residency to the ultra-rich while simultaneously cracking down on asylum seekers and lower-income immigrants presents political and ethical tensions.

How Does It Compare to EB-5?

The existing EB-5 program offers permanent residency to individuals who invest approximately $800,000–$1 million in a U.S. business that creates at least 10 full-time jobs. Though this process is slower and more complex, it ties residency to measurable economic benefit.

The Trump Gold Card, by contrast, offers no job creation requirement, no business risk, and—if implemented as proposed—faster processing. However, it lacks the legal infrastructure and historical precedent of EB-5.

Is It Worth It?

For some, $5 million is a small price to pay for the flexibility and security U.S. residency provides. But potential applicants should proceed with caution:

• The program is not yet formalized.

• It may face legal and political hurdles.

• There is currently no guarantee of specific benefits beyond residency.

At Saluja Law, we advise clients to be informed, cautious, and strategic in their approach. The immigration landscape is constantly evolving, and the best solution depends on your unique circumstances, goals, and risk tolerance.

Final Thoughts

The Trump Gold Card is a bold—and controversial—proposal. If it becomes a reality, it may offer a fast lane to U.S. residency for the world's wealthiest individuals. But for now, it remains just that: a proposal.

If you are considering the Gold Card or exploring U.S. immigration options, our team at Saluja Law is here to guide you. We offer experienced, personalized counsel for individuals, families, and businesses navigating the complexities of immigration law.

📞 Contact Saluja Law today for a confidential consultation.