Looks like Trump is proposing a new $5 million “Gold Card” program that would grant permanent U.S. residency to wealthy individuals, effectively replacing the EB-5 investor visa program.
For context, EB-5 allowed foreign investors to gain a green card by investing $900,000 to $1.8 million in U.S. projects that create at least 10 jobs. But under Trump’s proposal, people could buy a “Gold Card” for $5M, which could eventually lead to citizenship. He claims this will bring in wealthy, job-creating individuals who pay a lot of taxes.
Key Points of the New Plan:
- $5M flat fee instead of EB-5’s investment & job-creation requirements.
- Potential pathway to citizenship (details unclear).
- Major corporations (like Apple) could pay for highly skilled workers to get residency.
- Expected to generate billions and help reduce the deficit.
- Would require Congress approval to fully replace EB-5.
Controversies & Concerns:
- Is this just a pay-to-stay system that favors the ultra-rich?
- How does this impact middle-class immigrants who go through long visa and green card processes?
- Will this truly create jobs if there’s no job-creation requirement like EB-5?
- Legality question: Can Trump unilaterally replace EB-5 without Congress?
What do you think? Is this a smart move to bring in wealth and investments, or just another way to sell U.S. residency to the highest bidder? Curious to hear everyone’s take! 