The much-anticipated Trump Gold Card visa program has received White House approval and is officially set to begin operations from December 18, fulfilling President Donald Trump's earlier promise. The fast-tracked petition program offers wealthy foreign nationals a pathway to US residency through significant financial contributions.
Financial Requirements and Eligibility Criteria
Individual applicants must make a $1 million gift to the United States government, while corporate applications require a $2 million contribution. The program mandates that petitioners demonstrate they possess sufficient funds to make this unrestricted gift to the Department of Commerce and prove that all funds were obtained through lawful means.
Despite being marketed as a fast-track option, the Gold Card visa is not an automatic entry ticket to the United States. Applicants will still face waiting periods and must complete the standard immigration process, including thorough background checks and verification procedures.
Application Process and Visa Classifications
Prospective applicants must file Form I-140G as the initial step in the Gold Card process. This form requests an employment-based immigrant visa under the new program. Once the petition receives approval and an immigrant visa number becomes available, consular processing will commence.
The program offers eligibility for two distinct immigrant visa classifications. Applicants can choose between first preference alien of extraordinary ability or second preference alien of exceptional ability seeking a National Interest Waiver (NIW). Each classification has specific requirements that must be met during the application process.
USCIS Verification and Security Procedures
The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will implement rigorous verification procedures for all Gold Card applications. Incomplete petitions may face immediate rejection, and USCIS retains the right to request additional information or evidence to support applications.
During the evaluation process, immigration officials may require original document copies and conduct biometric verification. Comprehensive background and security checks will be updated as part of the standard procedure, ensuring all applicants meet US security standards.
The launch of this premium visa program coincides with the Trump administration's stricter approach toward other immigration categories, including refugee programs and H-1B visas. The Gold Card initiative represents a significant shift in US immigration policy, creating a dedicated pathway for wealthy individuals seeking American residency.
