What You Should Know About the New U.S. Green Card Pathway
The Gold Card program, introduced under Executive Order 14351 on September 19, 2025, proposes a new route to U.S. permanent residence for eligible foreign nationals who make a significant financial gift to the U.S. government. While not a new visa category, the program enables qualifying individuals to support their eligibility under existing employment-based green card categories (EB-1 and EB-2 NIW). This document provides answers to the most frequently asked questions regarding the structure, requirements, and status of the program.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the Gold Card program?
A: A new immigration pathway under Executive Order 14351 that allows certain foreign nationals to apply for permanent residency after making a voluntary financial gift to the U.S. government.
Q: How much must be contributed?
A: $1 million USD by an individual, or $2 million USD by a corporation on behalf of the individual.
Q: Is this a new immigration category?
A: No. The donation is treated as evidence of eligibility under the existing EB-1 or EB-2 NIW categories.
Q: What will the funds be used for?
A: Funds are deposited into a Department of Treasury account to promote commerce and American industry.
Q: Will this affect visa availability in other categories?
A: Yes. It will draw visa numbers from the EB-1 and EB-2 categories, potentially increasing wait times.
Q: What kind of individuals is the program targeting?
A: Primarily successful entrepreneurs, investors, and business professionals.
Q: Is there any link to EB-5?
A: Yes. The Executive Order directs agencies to consider expansion to EB-5 applicants.
Q: Are the applications open yet?
A: No. Agencies have until December 19, 2025 to implement the program.
Q: Where can I sign up or get updates?
A: Visit the official government website at https://trumpcard.gov/.
Q: What agencies are involved?
A: The Departments of Commerce (gift intake), State (visa processing), and Homeland Security/USCIS (status adjustment).
Q: Will there be additional fees?
A: Yes. Administrative fees will apply in addition to the donation.
Q: Can a company reassign a contribution to a different employee?
A: Yes. A company may transfer the sponsorship without paying a new fee.
Q: What is the ‘Trump Platinum Card’?
A: A related proposal allowing a 270-day U.S. stay without U.S. taxes on foreign income for a $5 million contribution.
Q: Are there official application forms?
A: Not yet. Forms and procedures are expected closer to the implementation date.
Q: Can B-2 visa holders apply?
A: Not directly. They must still meet EB-1 or EB-2 NIW requirements, and changing status from B-2 can be complex.
Q: Does the donation guarantee a green card?
A: No. It is only part of the eligibility evidence and does not bypass standard background and eligibility checks.
Q: Are donations refundable if denied?
A: Refund policies are not yet defined. Legal guidance is strongly recommended before making a gift.
Q: Is the Gold Card a green card?
A: No. It is a pathway to a green card through the EB-1 or EB-2 process, not a separate immigration status.
Disclaimer: This information is current as of October 23, 2025, and may change as the program evolves and new guidance is released. This does not constitute legal advice.