Explained: The cost, eligibility, dates, and application process for Trump’s Gold Card

On Wednesday, US President Donald Trump revealed the eagerly anticipated Gold Card visa, marketing it as a tool for businesses looking to retain foreign graduates and a million-dollar fast track to US citizenship.

Trump described it as “somewhat like a green card, but with big advantages,” allowing corporate executives to “go to any school, buy a card, and keep that person in the United States.”

Applications were accepted by the White House starting on Wednesday afternoon. Individuals pay $1 million for the card, while corporate sponsors pay $2 million.

An explanation of the new system is provided below for candidates.

THE GOLD CARD: WHAT IS IT?

A new US immigration route called the Gold Card is predicated on an applicant’s capacity to significantly help the US. After verification, there is a $1 million gift and a $15,000 processing charge. Under an EB-1 or EB-2 classification, successful candidates are granted lawful permanent residency.

WHAT IS THE PRICE?

• $15,000 DHS processing fee (non-refundable)
• $1 million gift for individuals after background checks
• Extra Department of State fees may apply

The Trump Corporate Gold Card: What is it?

Businesses can sponsor overseas employees by paying:

• $15,000 processing fee per employee
• $2 million gift per employee after vetting

Corporations may reuse their $2 million contribution for a replacement employee without paying again. A 1% annual maintenance fee and 5% transfer fee apply.

THE TRUMP PLATINUM CARD: WHAT IS IT?

The Platinum Card, which is still on the waitlist, needs:

• $15,000 fee
• $5 million contribution

It permits people to stay in the US for up to 270 days annually without having to pay foreign income tax.

ARE MEMBERS OF THE FAMILY INCLUDED?

Indeed. The application may be expanded to include spouses and unmarried children under the age of 21. A $1 million contribution and an extra $15,000 processing fee are needed for each.

CAN THE STATUS OF A GOLD CARD BE REVOKED?

Indeed. Revocation may occur due to serious criminal concerns or National Security issues, just like with any other visa.

TIMELINE FOR APPLICATION

The vetting and approval procedure usually takes weeks after the processing fee is submitted. Candidates must show up for a visa interview and reply to demands for documents promptly.

APPLICATION METHODS

The official website, https://trumpcard.gov/, is where applications are submitted.

STEPS:

• Choose between Gold Card (individual), Corporate Gold Card, or Platinum waitlist
• Fill in personal information (name, birth details, citizenship, address, family count)
• Create a myUSCIS.gov account when instructed
• Pay the DHS processing fee of $15,375 (including credit-card surcharge)
• Complete the vetting and later wire the $1 million or $2 million gift

WHAT IS THE DURATION?

After costs are paid and paperwork is submitted, processing usually takes weeks. Depending on the availability of visas, certain nationalities can experience delays.

Gold Card holders pay the same taxes as permanent residents of the United States. For up to 270 days per year, holders of Platinum Cards are not subject to US taxes on overseas income.