The United States government has introduced a new immigration programme, selling 1,000 ‘Gold Cards’ at $5 million each, generating $5 billion in a single day. U.S.
Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick announced the sale, following the program’s introduction by former President Donald Trump in February 2025. The initiative provides wealthy foreign citizens with permanent U.S. residency, replacing the EB-5 immigrant investor visa program.
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The EB-5 programme, established in 1990, allowed immigrants to obtain green cards by investing at least $800,000 to $1 million in a company that employs at least 10 people. In 2024, over 12,000 EB-5 visas were issued. The Gold Card, reportedly developed from discussions between financier John Paulson and Trump, has sparked debates across political and economic spheres.
The initiative raises concerns about fairness, as it grants U.S. residency based on financial capacity rather than merit or other traditional immigration pathways. It has led to discussions on whether U.S. immigration is moving towards a system where wealth determines eligibility.
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With the U.S. national debt surpassing $36.22 trillion, growing by an average of $4.87 billion daily, the government views the Gold Card as a tool to generate revenue. Lutnick estimates that 37 million people worldwide can afford to buy the Gold Card. If 200,000 cards are sold, the programme could generate $1 trillion. If expanded to 10 million cards, it could yield $50 trillion, potentially eliminating the national debt and funding infrastructure, education, and healthcare.
Critics argue that the programme creates a two-tiered immigration system, allowing the wealthy to bypass traditional requirements while others face barriers. The monetisation of U.S. residency also raises questions about equity and the nation’s immigration principles.
Several countries have implemented similar initiatives. The United Arab Emirates offers a 10-year Golden Visa for an investment of AED 2 million ($545,000) in real estate. European nations such as Portugal, Spain, and Italy have similar schemes. However, U.S. immigration has historically been based on diversity, opportunity, and merit. The introduction of a paid residency programme challenges these principles and may affect public trust in the system.
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Gold Card holders have the option to apply for U.S. citizenship, though most buyers are expected to avoid it to limit exposure to U.S. taxation. This raises concerns about their contribution to the economy beyond their initial investment. The presence of ultra-wealthy residents could also impact the housing market, increasing property values and making homes less affordable for middle- and lower-income Americans. Such economic shifts could deepen social divides and fuel tensions around immigration policies.
While background checks are in place, there are concerns about the programme’s potential for misuse. It requires strict oversight to prevent fraudulent activities and ensure that approved individuals align with national interests. The government has not disclosed the identities of Gold Card holders, raising questions about transparency and accountability.
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The programme represents a shift towards a more financial-based immigration approach. The impact of this model depends on how it is managed and whether the individuals involved integrate into American society. The government faces the challenge of balancing financial incentives with maintaining the integrity of its immigration system.
