The Trump Gold and Platinum Card Program offers a simplified new route for high-net-worth individuals who want to secure U.S. permanent residency. Created for global investors and business professionals, the program provides a faster, more reliable alternative to the traditional immigration process.
The program features two investment tiers Gold (USD 1 million), Corporate Gold Card (USD 2 million) and Platinum (USD 5 million). While the Platinum tier has not yet been released, it is expected to launch soon.
By offering these tiers, investors can choose the pathway that best matches their goals and financial requirements. Each application benefits from an accelerated 12-month processing timeline and permits the inclusion of immediate family members. One of the program’s most attractive advantages is that no job offer or employer sponsorship is required.
What is the Trump Card?
The Trump Card Program is a newly introduced U.S. permanent residency initiative that requires the applicant to make a direct financial contribution to the U.S. government. Unlike traditional employment or investment-based immigration routes, the Trump Gold Card offers an accelerated pathway for qualified individuals and corporations to obtain a U.S. Green Card, without the need for job creation or employer sponsorship.
Background and Legal Foundation
The Trump Card Program was established in September 2025 through an Executive Order, titled “The Gold Card Initiative,” signed by the U.S. President Donald J. Trump. The order introduced a new option for permanent residency available through financial contributions.
The Trump Gold card was created in an effort to attract high-net-worth individuals and international capital to the United States, while offering a fast-track immigration process with clearly defined financial thresholds.
The program is commonly referred to by several names, Trump Card, Gold Card, or Card Gold USA and is expected to become an alternative to long-standing employment-based visa categories such as the EB-1A (Extraordinary Ability) and EB-2 NIW (National Interest Waiver).
While the Trump Gold will not replace those categories, the contribution made under the Trump Card framework may strengthen an applicant’s case under either classification by demonstrating national benefit or exceptional contribution.
Three Investment Tiers
The Gold Visa Card is structured into three contribution levels, allowing applicants to choose the tier that best aligns with their objectives and resources. Each level offers the same accelerated 12-month processing period and family inclusion benefits.
1. Gold Card – USD 1 Million (Individual Tier)
- Designed for private applicants contributing USD 1,000,000 directly to the U.S. Department of Commerce.
- Serves as the primary entry point to U.S. permanent residency for qualified investors and professionals.
- Provides full residency rights for the main applicant, spouse, and dependent children.
2. Corporate Gold Card – USD 2 Million (Company-Sponsored Tier)
- Requires a USD 2,000,000 contribution made by a corporate entity on behalf of an executive or employee.
- Enables multinational corporations to sponsor key personnel for U.S. permanent residency.
- Transferable to another qualifying employee under specific regulatory conditions.
3. Platinum Card – USD 5 Million (Enhanced Tier with Tax Benefits)
- Only available to major contributors who make a USD 5,000,000 financial gift to the United States.
- Offers potential tax advantages on foreign-source income and more flexible physical presence requirements.
- Provides access to a dedicated processing channel for expedited adjudication.
- However, the Platinum Card has not yet been released, and an official launch date has not been announced.
A Distinct Alternative to Traditional Immigration Pathways
The Trump Card Program differs significantly from the long-established EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program. Whereas EB-5 requires the applicant to invest in a U.S. commercial enterprise and create jobs for American workers, the Trump Card requires no job creation or business involvement. The program is structured as a financial contribution rather than an investment, removing the usual operational and financial risks often linked to EB-5 projects.
Also, unlike employment-based visas such as the H-1B, there is no need for a job offer, labour certification, or employer sponsorship. The Trump Card is based solely on the applicant’s verified financial contribution and compliance with U.S. national interest guidelines.
Key Benefits of the Trump Gold and Platinum Cards
The Trump Gold Card Program offers an exclusive and efficient route for qualified investors to obtain U.S. permanent residency through a direct contribution. Designed for high-net-worth individuals, entrepreneurs, and business leaders, it removes many of the barriers typically associated with U.S. immigration. Below are the main advantages that separate the Trump Gold Card program from the more traditional visa options.
No Job Offer or Labour Certification Required
One of the most attractive benefits of the Trump Gold Card is that applicants are not required to secure a job offer or employer sponsorship. Current employment-based visas, such as the H-1B or EB-2, require a U.S. employer to petition on the applicant’s behalf and complete the labour certification (PERM) process to prove that no qualified American worker is available for the role.
Under the Trump Gold Card program, this requirement is completely removed. Applicants are evaluated based on their financial contribution and personal eligibility.
Accelerated Processing — Approximately 12 Months
The Trump Gold and Platinum Cards offer one of the fastest processing timelines of any U.S. immigration program, with most applications completed within 12 months.
Applicants may also be eligible for premium processing options, which will further reduce the timeline in specific circumstances. This fast processing time is a significant contrast to traditional green card routes that can take several years.
Family Inclusion — Unconditional Green Cards for Dependents
Each approved application includes spouses and unmarried children under 21. Dependents receive unconditional U.S. Green Cards, granting them the same residency rights as the main applicant.
No Language or Education Requirements
Unlike several points-based immigration programs, the Trump Gold Card does not require English language proficiency or formal educational credentials. Applicants are assessed only on their financial contribution and compliance with program standards.
Tax Advantages for Platinum Card Holders
The Platinum Card, designed for contributions of USD 5 million, provides exclusive tax benefits. Holders may spend up to 270 days per year in the United States without being deemed U.S. tax residents, allowing them to maintain their foreign-source income tax exemptions.
Please note, there has been no formal announcement of when the Platinum Card will be available.
Full Work and Business Flexibility
Trump Gold Card holders are granted unrestricted employment and business rights within the United States. They may work for any employer, start a company, invest in property, or operate independently without restriction.
In practical terms, this means that, unlike H-1B visa holders who must remain with a specific employer, Gold Card recipients can change careers, establish new ventures, or expand existing enterprises freely. This flexibility is particularly valuable for investors seeking to integrate U.S. operations into their global business portfolios.
Pathway to U.S. Citizenship
Holders of the Trump Gold or Platinum Card may apply for U.S. citizenship after five years of continuous lawful permanent residency, in accordance with U.S. immigration law.
Citizenship provides full access to U.S. rights and privileges, including the right to vote, U.S. passport benefits, and enhanced global mobility.
The U.S. administration has indicated that Trump Gold Card holders could meet the eligibility criteria for EB-1A and EB-2 immigrant visa classifications, covering individuals with extraordinary or exceptional abilities or those eligible under the national interest waiver provisions.
The eligibility requirements for the EB-1A and EB-2 US visa are as follows:
Eligibility Criteria for the EB1 Visa (if not using the Gold Card)
- Have extraordinary ability in the sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics, demonstrated by sustained national or international acclaim for the individual’s achievements:
- Major internationally recognized award or a one-time achievement (i.e., Nobel, Oscar, Pulitzer, Olympic Medal), Or
- Meeting at least 3 of the 10 evidentiary criteria as benchmarks determining whether an individual qualifies as possessing extraordinary ability.
- The entry into the United States will substantially benefit the United States in the future.
- Continue working in the field of extraordinary ability upon coming to the United States.
EB-1 Visa Evidentiary Criteria
- Proof of receipt of lesser nationally or internationally recognized prizes or awards for excellence.
- Proof of the original scientific, scholarly, artistic, athletic, or business-related contributions in the field of expertise.
- Published material about the excellence in either professional or trade publication or other major media.
- Authorship in scholarly, professional, or trade media.
- Commercial success in the performing arts.
- Being asked to judge others individually or on a panel for their work.
- Have had work displayed at artistic exhibitions and/or showcases.
- Membership in a distinguished association or organization whose membership relies on having an extraordinary ability.
- Performing a leading role in a distinguished organization.
- Proof you command a high salary or significant payment in relation to others in your field.
United States EB2 Visa Requirements (If not using the Gold Card)
- Advanced degree: Bachelor’s degree + 5 years’ work experience in the same field.
- The applicant’s work experience must include management experience.
- The project must have substantial merit, be of national importance, and beneficial to the U.S.
- The main applicant must demonstrate that they are innovative entrepreneurs and well-positioned to advance the venture.
- Must provide proof of a lawful source of funds used for the investment.
EB2 Investment Visa Options (EB2 Start-up Investment)
- Start-up entrepreneur investment of at least 250,000 USD.
- Research & Development: a significant part of the investment at least 30,000 USD) must be reserved for R&D.
- Research and Development must be supported by governmentally backed U.S. research facilities.
- Secure the commitments of a business incubator and U.S. Agencies.
- The main applicant owns 100% of the legal entity conducting the business innovation project in the U.S.
Application Process Overview
Applying for the Trump Gold Card or Platinum Card is a clear, structured process that offers a processing time of 12 months, making it a relatively quick application process when compared to other programs.
At Harvey Law Group (HLG), our team guides clients through each step of their golden card application, offering end-to-end assistance to make the process efficient, compliant, and stress-free.
1. Initial Assessment (1–2 Months)
The first step of the golden card application is a detailed eligibility assessment. During this stage, our team performs an in-depth review of your financial background, business activities, and supporting documentation to confirm that you meet the minimum program requirements and are eligible for the program.
This phase includes:
- Eligibility verification, including background checks and immigration history review.
- Assessment of business or executive experience to support your residency application.
- Source of funds confirmation to ensure compliance with U.S. anti–money laundering and transparency regulations.
2. Document Preparation (1–2 Months)
The Trump Card application requires the submission of properly prepared documentation to demonstrate financial capability and compliance with U.S. government guidelines.
Examples of required documentation include:
- business experience records such as corporate registration documents or professional certifications.
- financial statements and bank records showing the lawful origin of funds.
- supporting evidence, including identification, tax filings, and proof of family relationships.
Every document is reviewed for completeness and compliance before submission to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), reducing the risk of delays or rejections.
3. Form I-140 Submission
Once the documentation has been prepared, the golden card application with USCIS begins with filing the Form I-140 (Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker). By filing this form, the applicant officially registers their intention to obtain U.S. permanent residency through the Trump Card program.
The filing package includes:
- Proof of the financial gift commitment to the U.S. government.
- Verified documentation from earlier stages.
- Any accompanying affidavits or compliance confirmations.
Once submitted, the application is assigned a receipt number, allowing you to track progress online. Applicants may also opt for premium processing, which can shorten USCIS review times to as little as 2–4 months.
4. USCIS Review (Approximately 12 Months Standard / 2–4 Months Premium)
During this period, USCIS adjudicates the petition, verifying the authenticity of the contribution and supporting evidence. Occasionally, the USCIS may issue a Request for Evidence (RFE) for clarification or additional documentation..
Applicants who select premium processing will receive significantly faster handling times, reducing overall wait times and be subject to quicker decision-making.
Throughout this phase, HLG maintains direct communication with USCIS and provides clients with timely updates to ensure that every response is delivered promptly and accurately.
5. Visa Processing (2–4 Months)
Once your gold visa card petition is approved, the next stage involves either Adjustment of Status or Consular Processing, depending on your location:
- If in the United States: You can apply for Adjustment of Status (Form I-485) to finalize your permanent residency.
- If outside the United States: You will complete Consular Processing at your local U.S. embassy or consulate.
This phase typically lasts 2–4 months and involves biometrics, medical examinations, and final interview scheduling. HLG assists clients at each step to ensure smooth coordination and compliance with consular requirements.
6. Green Card Issuance (Final Stage)
Successful Trump Card applicants receive permanent residency for themselves and their eligible dependents.
Physical Green Cards are issued to the main applicant, spouse, and unmarried children under 21. Receiving the Green Card grants the holders the right to live, work, and study anywhere in the United States.
Green card status means holders can enjoy unrestricted access to the U.S. economy, education, and healthcare, along with the opportunity to apply for U.S. citizenship after five years.
Trump Card vs. Other U.S. Immigration Programs
For investors considering a move to the USA or obtaining U.S. permanent residency, it’s important to understand how the Trump Gold Card and Platinum Card compare with other immigration options such as the EB-2 National Interest Waiver (NIW) and the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Visa.
Comparison Table: Trump Cards vs. Traditional U.S. Residency Programs
When to Choose the Trump Gold or Platinum Card
The Trump Card Programs are best suited for high-net-worth individuals looking for a quick, simple, and efficient option for residency in the US.
Unlike the EB-5 Visa, which requires active involvement in U.S. commercial activities and proof of creating ten full-time American jobs, the Trump Card involves a pure financial contribution with no job creation, investment risk, or operational oversight.
The Platinum Card, while higher in cost, also offers tax and residency flexibility, allowing cardholders to spend up to 270 days per year in the United States without triggering U.S. tax residency on their global income, which is a major advantage not available under any other visa option.
When to Consider EB-2 NIW or EB-5 Instead
Professionals or entrepreneurs who possess extraordinary achievements, advanced degrees, or unique expertise may prefer the EB-2 NIW route, which does not require any financial contribution. However, eligibility for these programs relies heavily on personal success and national interest evidence.
Meanwhile, investors seeking a business-driven route with potential returns can explore the EB-5 Investor Visa, which requires funds to be invested into government-approved projects. An added bonus to this option is that the investment can yield profit if managed successfully.
Country-Specific Considerations
For most nationalities, Green Card issuance under the Trump Card Program follows shortly after Form I-140 approval, meaning that permanent residency can be granted within 12 to 18 months of beginning the process. However, due to U.S. immigration law and annual visa limits, certain applicants, particularly Indian and Chinese nationals, may experience additional waiting periods before their Green Cards are issued.
Understanding the Per-Country Quota System
The U.S. allocates a limited number of immigrant visas each year per country, known as the per-country quota. This quota is designed to make sure that no single nationality receives a disproportionately large share of Green Cards in any given year.
While this helps maintain fairness, it also means that applicants from countries with high demand for U.S. residency face longer queues, particularly under the EB-2 employment-based category, which the Trump Card Program references for visa issuance.
Current estimated waiting periods after I-140 approval are as follows:
- India: 12+ years
- China: 4+ years
- All other countries: Generally current (no additional wait time)
What Is a Priority Date?
After the applicant’s I-140 petition is approved, the filing date becomes your “priority date.” The priority date determines the applicant’s place in line for visa availability. Even if a visa number is not immediately available, your approval secures your position in the queue, protecting your eligibility as soon as a slot opens under the quota system.
Planning Around Backlogs
While the Trump Card program does not eliminate these per-country limits, obtaining an approved I-140 petition is a significant milestone in the application. Receiving the approved I-140 petition means that your application is recognized and your priority date locked in, even if the final Green Card issuance takes longer.
During this waiting period, applicants may still qualify for EAD (Employment Authorization Documents) and Advance Parole travel permits, allowing them to live, work, and travel in the United States while awaiting their visa being issued.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are answers to the most common questions about the Trump Gold Card and Platinum Card programs.
PROGRAM BASICS
Q: What does the Trump Gold Card do?
A: The Trump Gold Card provides U.S. permanent residency through a direct financial contribution to the U.S. government. It enables eligible investors and their families to live, work, and study anywhere in the United States, with a path to citizenship after five years of residency.
Q: Is the Gold Card still valid?
A: Yes. As of 2025, the Trump Gold Card Program remains active under the Gold Card Initiative Executive Order and continues to accept applications from qualified investors worldwide.
Q: How much does a Gold Card cost?
A: The program has three tiers: Gold Card – USD 1 million, Corporate Gold Card – USD 2 million, and Platinum Card – USD 5 million.
Q: What does a Gold Card entitle you to?
A: Holders receive full U.S. Green Card privileges, including the right to live, work, study, and invest anywhere in the United States. It also allows for family inclusion (spouse and unmarried children under 21) and eventual U.S. citizenship eligibility after five years.
Q: Is the Gold Card still worth it?
A: For qualified investors, yes. The Trump Gold Card offers speed, flexibility, and simplicity not available to other U.S. immigration routes. It removes job creation requirements and provides a predictable path to residency, ideal for entrepreneurs, executives, and families seeking to move to the USA through a secure and structured program.
ELIGIBILITY
Q: Who is eligible for a Gold Card?
A: Applicants must demonstrate lawful financial capacity and business or executive experience that aligns with the U.S. national interest. Both individuals and corporations may apply.
Q: Who qualifies for a Gold Card?
A: Eligibility extends to high-net-worth individuals with verifiable income, professional credibility, and the ability to make the required financial contribution.
Q: Is it hard to get a Gold Card?
A: It is not difficult for qualified applicants who provide accurate, well-prepared documentation. With professional legal guidance, most candidates can navigate the process efficiently and successfully.
Q: What qualifications do I need for a Gold Card?
A: Applicants must demonstrate:
- A lawful source of funds, verified through clear documentation;
- Professional or business experience showing managerial or executive capability; and
- General admissibility to the United States under immigration law.
Q: Who qualifies for a SuperGold Card?
A: There is no “SuperGold” tier. The highest level available is the Platinum Card, requiring a USD 5 million contribution. However, the Platinum Card has not been formally released yet.
COMPARISONS
Q: What is the difference between a Gold Card and a normal card?
A: The Gold Card grants permanent residency, unlike temporary work visas that require employer sponsorship or renewal. It provides long-term stability, independence, and full legal rights in the United States.
Q: How is this different from EB-5?
A: The Trump Card requires a financial contribution, not an investment. Unlike EB-5, there is no job creation requirement or commercial project risk. It also offers faster processing and fewer administrative obligations.
Q: What is the difference between Gold, Corporate Gold, and Platinum Cards?
A:
- Gold Card – USD 1 million individual contribution.
- Corporate Gold Card – USD 2 million corporate-sponsored contribution.
- Platinum Card – USD 5 million contribution with tax and residency flexibility.
FAMILY & DEPENDENTS
Q: Can my wife/spouse join me with my Gold Card?
A: Yes. Your spouse automatically receives an unconditional Green Card, granting full residency and work rights. Unmarried children under the age of 21 are also eligible for a Green Card,
Q: Can I include my adult children?
A: Only unmarried children under 21 can be included. Adult or married children must apply through separate immigration channels.
Q: Can married people get a golden visa?
A: Yes. Marital status does not affect eligibility, married applicants may include their spouse in the same application.
PROCESSING & TIMELINE
Q: How long does it take to get a Gold Card?
A: Standard processing takes about 12–14 months. With premium processing, the I-140 stage may be completed in as little as 2–4 months, significantly reducing total wait time.
Q: Are premium processing options available?
A: Yes. Applicants may opt for premium processing, which ensures expedited review of the petition and priority placement in USCIS adjudication queues.
TAX & BENEFITS
Q: What are the Platinum Card tax benefits?
A: The Platinum Card allows holders to spend up to 270 days per year in the U.S. without being classified as U.S. tax residents, enabling exemption on foreign-source income. This structure appeals to global investors balancing residency with international tax efficiency.
Q: What is the highest Trump Card tier?
A: The Platinum Card is the highest tier, requiring a USD 5 million contribution.
Q: What does your Gold Card give you?
A: Full U.S. permanent residency benefits, including the right to live, work, and study anywhere in the country, with eventual eligibility for citizenship.
WORK & RIGHTS
Q: Can I work in any field after receiving my Green Card?
A: Yes. Trump Gold Card holders have unrestricted employment rights in any lawful occupation or industry. You may also start or invest in U.S. businesses without limitation.
Q: What does a Gold Card allow you to do?
A: It provides the same rights as any U.S. Green Card holder, to live, work, own property, and access education and healthcare across all 50 states.
Have a question not answered here?
Contact Harvey Law Group for personalized guidance on your Trump Gold Card or gold visa card application. Our global immigration attorneys will help you determine your eligibility and the best way to proceed with your application.
How Harvey Law Group Can Help
Harvey Law Group brings over 32 years of immigration expertise with offices in 20 countries globally, including major hubs like Hong Kong, Paris, Miami, and Montreal.
Our specialized knowledge of United States Visa and Citizenship programs is available to clients.
Our services cover the entire process, from determining eligibility and investment selection to document preparation and submission. HLG ensures a smooth and compliant process.
Contact our experts for a personalized program comparison and more information about which program is best suited to your needs, whether you are eligible and how to get started.
