Trump Introduces $1M Gold & $5M Platinum Investor Visas for U.S. Residency

WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump announced a new visa program on Friday aimed at attracting wealthy individuals and businesses to the United States. Speaking from the Oval Office, Trump said the initiative could bring in billions of dollars, which would help reduce national debt and support government programs.

The new program features three main options:

• Gold Card: Individuals can pay $1 million for U.S. residency, subject to background checks and government approval.

• Platinum Card: A $5 million option that allows holders to stay in the U.S. for up to 270 days a year without paying taxes on income earned outside the country.

• Corporate Visa: Companies can pay $2 million per employee to secure residency for workers. The visa can later be transferred to another employee, with government approval and a small annual maintenance fee.

A dedicated website allows interested applicants to submit their name, region, and email, but experts say that Congress may need to approve the program before any visas can be officially issued.

How the U.S. Could Benefit

This new visa program is one of the most expensive in U.S. history, designed to attract very wealthy investors and skilled workers who can help the U.S. economy grow. Officials say it could help the country in three main ways:

• Bring in Investment: Wealthy individuals and companies would invest in U.S. businesses, real estate, and startups, putting money directly into the economy.

• Create Jobs: New or expanded businesses could hire more Americans, providing new employment opportunities.

• Generate Revenue: Visa fees, ranging from $1 million to $5 million, could raise billions for the government without increasing taxes on U.S. citizens.

The program aims to combine investment with residency, encouraging global talent to live and work in the U.S. while helping the economy grow.

How Companies and Markets Are Reacting

Shares of IT consulting firms, including Accenture and Cognizant Technology, dipped slightly following the announcement. Investors were concerned that higher visa fees could increase costs for hiring skilled foreign workers.

At the same time, some business leaders welcomed the program, highlighting that it could bring fresh capital and skilled professionals into the U.S. economy, supporting growth and innovation in key industries.

Who Can Apply

• Only individuals who can pay $1 million to $5 million, or companies willing to invest $2 million per employee, are eligible.

• Analysts estimate the number of potential applicants is small, given the high cost.

• If approved and implemented, this program could set a new benchmark for investor-based visas in the United States.

These visas act like premium passes for wealthy individuals who want to live and work in the U.S. The Gold Card, costing $1 million, grants residency, while the Platinum Card, at $5 million, adds tax benefits on money earned abroad.

Companies can also apply for visas for employees who meet the financial criteria, making it easier to bring in skilled talent quickly.

President Trump says the program is designed to attract investment, bring in qualified professionals, and boost economic activity. The funds collected from these visas could support government programs and reduce reliance on taxpayer money, while also encouraging capital to flow into U.S. businesses, real estate, and technology ventures.

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