Former President Donald Trump has announced that his administration is now accepting applications for a new residency program called the "Trump Card." This initiative promises permanent residency in the United States for a hefty fee of $5 million. Trump made this announcement on Wednesday, launching a dedicated website where interested applicants can register.
Visitors to the new site, TrumpCard.gov, can provide their name, region, and email address, and indicate whether they are applying as individuals or businesses. This will allow them to be notified when the application process officially opens.
In a post shared on Truth Social, Trump expressed enthusiasm about the program, stating that many people have been eager to find a way to enter what he describes as "the Greatest Country and Market anywhere in the World." He emphasized that the waiting list for this opportunity is now open.
The idea for this residency visa was first introduced by Trump in February. He suggested that wealthy individuals would receive a "gold card" that not only grants residency and work rights but also a pathway to U.S. citizenship. According to Trump, these individuals would contribute significantly to the economy by spending money, paying taxes, and creating jobs.
In a previous display on Air Force One, Trump showcased a sample of the proposed visa, which features a gold color and his image. Administration officials hinted that this new card might replace the existing EB-5 immigrant investor visa program. Currently, that program allows immigrants to gain permanent residency by investing at least $1.05 million in the U.S., or $800,000 in economically distressed areas.
While the $5 million price tag is clear, the specific criteria for applicants beyond the financial requirement remain uncertain. The administration has indicated that there will be a vetting process for applicants.
Under the current immigration laws, those who become lawful permanent residents can apply for citizenship after five years if they demonstrate a basic understanding of English and show good moral character, along with an attachment to the principles of the U.S. Constitution.