Trump Gold Card Launches Premium Fast-Track for US Green Cards
December 11, 2025
The US immigration system is complex and slow, but now a new option has arrived: the Trump Gold Card. It fast-tracks applicants into existing employment-based green card categories by allowing them to pay a large fee. The Individual Gold Card requires a $1 million contribution and the Corporate Gold Card needs $2 million from a sponsoring company. These fees guarantee quicker review and priority in the green card process under EB-1 and EB-2 visa categories. Rumors of an even more expensive Platinum Card are circulating. Unlike creating a new visa, the Gold Card cuts waiting times by offering a premium, express lane inside America’s current immigration system.
The US visa system is split between temporary visas for visits and studies, and permanent visas for residency. The Gold Card aims to improve speed in the permanent visa section, which includes categories for extraordinary ability, advanced degrees, and skilled workers. However, the many visa categories suffer from long backlogs, especially for applicants from high-demand countries.
Immigration policies remain political and inconsistent due to competing government interests: universities and businesses want more talent, security forces want strict checks, and politicians shift positions. The Gold Card is seen as elitist by critics, as it openly sells faster green cards for large sums. Supporters argue it is realistic, offering certainty to both applicants and companies.
At a time when the US is also tightening immigration rules with longer waits and tougher vetting, the Gold Card creates a sharp divide. It offers a fast, smooth path for the wealthy, while others face a slow, crowded system. For most, the Gold Card is not a solution but a parallel, costly path. It hints at a future US immigration policy that prioritizes top talent and big contributions over expanding total visa numbers, reflecting a major shift in America’s visa landscape.
Read More at Timesofindia →
Tags:
Us immigration
Trump Gold Card
Visa System
Green Card
Immigration Reform
Comments