Upcoming Launch of Trump Gold Card Visa Program Promises New Path to U.S. Citizenship

Upcoming Launch of Trump Gold Card Visa Program Promises New Path to U.S. Citizenship

U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick announced that the Trump Gold Card program will become available online within a few weeks. This initiative allows foreign nationals to obtain a visa for a price of $5 million.

Lutnick spoke during a recent event hosted by Axios, where he participated in an interview with co-founder Mike Allen. The discussion covered a range of topics, notably President Donald Trump’s introduction of the Gold Card as a new method for achieving U.S. citizenship.

In March, Trump indicated that details regarding the Gold Card would be unveiled soon. He described it as akin to a green card but superior in sophistication. Trump emphasized that this initiative would create a pathway for the world’s most successful entrepreneurs to secure citizenship in the United States.

Website Launching Soon

When Allen inquired about the availability of the $5 million Gold Card, Lutnick projected that the official website, trumpcard.gov, would be operational within approximately one week.

Lutnick stated, “The details of that will come soon, but people can start to register. All that will come over a matter of the next weeks—not months, weeks.”

A Dining Experience and Business Opportunities

During the event, Lutnick recounted an engaging experience from a recent dinner in the Middle East attended by around 400 guests. He recalled having his phone ready when a senior leader approached him and inquired about its purpose.

Lutnick responded lightheartedly, explaining, “I am selling him cards.” He suggested that if individuals possess the financial means, they would likely be interested in purchasing the Gold Card.

Affordability and National Contributions

While acknowledging that the Gold Card may be financially out of reach for some, Lutnick reiterated its potential to benefit those willing to contribute significantly to reduce U.S. debt.

He asked, “Why wouldn’t individuals want a plan B that ensures, if something unfortunate happens, they can arrive at an airport in America and be greeted with, ‘Welcome home’ instead of fearing what might happen back home?”

Furthermore, Lutnick emphasized rigorous vetting procedures for all Gold Card applicants. He suggested that individuals able to pay $5 million are likely to be productive members of society, ready to invest in American businesses and economic opportunities.

The Financial Impact

Lutnick introduced a thought-provoking scenario: if 200,000 people purchase the Gold Card for $5 million each, the total revenue would reach an astonishing $1 trillion.

He articulated, “Remember, we currently offer 280,000 visas annually for free, excluding the 20 million individuals who have entered the country illegally under the current administration. Therefore, consider this: we give away visas for free, while Donald Trump aims to generate a trillion dollars to enhance America. This logically makes perfect sense.”

Expert Concerns on National Security

Trump’s plan to attract affluent individuals seeking U.S. citizenship has sparked controversy. Critics underscore the potential risks associated with such immigration policies, particularly in light of ongoing concerns regarding national security.

In March, Lora Ries, director of the Heritage Foundation’s Border Security and Immigration Center, cautioned that the initiative could attract fraudulent activities. She mentioned, “Any immigration benefit can draw fraud. People are inclined to do whatever it takes to gain entry into the U.S.”

During a prior interview with Fox News’ Chief Political Anchor Bret Baier, Lutnick affirmed that all applicants would undergo an extensive vetting process. He reassured the public, stating, “These are vetted individuals. They will represent great global citizens with the ability to foster entrepreneurial growth in America. When one of these immigrants arrives, consider the jobs they will create and the businesses they will introduce, alongside their tax contributions. This represents a significant financial boon for America.”

Final Thoughts

The Trump Gold Card program reflects an ambitious approach to immigration, balancing economic opportunities for foreign nationals with the complexities of national security. As the launch date approaches, stakeholders and the public will be watching closely to see how this program unfolds and its implications for the U.S. immigration landscape.

Fox News Digital’s Caitlin McFall contributed to this report.