Trump's $5 Million "Gold Card" Offers a Pricey "Path" to U.S. Citizenship

Donald Trump's "Trump Card," a controversial initiative offering a pathway to U.S. citizenship for wealthy foreign investors, is now accepting applications online. The initiative, publicized via Truth Social, invites individuals willing to invest $5 million to pursue American citizenship.

Despite the hefty price tag, the "Trump Card" does not guarantee immediate citizenship. While the website trumpcard.gov is live and collecting applicant information, the specific requirements for achieving citizenship through this program remain unclear. The White House has indicated that further details will be released soon.

Currently, the standard path to U.S. citizenship involves holding lawful permanent resident status for a minimum of five years. Applicants must also meet certain criteria, including being at least 18 years old, demonstrating basic English proficiency (depending on age), and possessing "good moral character."

Trump has described the card as a "sophisticated" alternative to the traditional Green Card, enticing wealthy individuals to invest in the U.S. economy. The website gathers applicant details, including their region of origin (Europe, Asia, North America, Oceania, Central America, South America, Caribbean, and Africa).

This initiative echoes similar investment-based immigration programs offered by other countries, such as Portugal, which provides residency and a route to EU citizenship after five years.

Previously, Trump suggested the "Trump Card" would replace the EB-5 visa program, which grants Green Cards to investors who contribute between $800,000 and $1.05 million towards job creation in the U.S.

Trump envisions the "Trump Card" attracting affluent and talented individuals, boosting the U.S. economy through investment, tax revenue, and job creation. He sees it as a means for wealthy individuals to sponsor talented people's entry into the country.