Trump's $1 Million 'Gold Card' Residency Program Sparks Immigration Debate

December 11, 2025
Trump's $1 Million 'Gold Card' Residency Program Sparks Immigration Debate
  • Trump unveils a new “gold card” program that functions like a green card, offering permanent residency and potential citizenship to foreign-born applicants who pay $1 million per person or $2 million per employee for corporations.

  • Supporters and critics within MAGA circles debate skilled immigration while the proposal sits amid broader disputes over U.S. immigration policy during Trump’s presidency.

  • The plan is framed as an exclusive, high-value visa-like option, drawing comparisons to global investor programs, but with higher price points and perceived exclusivity.

  • Note to readers: the summary here does not include verification, legality, or official policy status; please consult the full article for corroboration.

  • Report relies on multiple sources and interviews and traces the idea to earlier in the year, placing the proposal in a historical context.

  • Early criticisms during the rollout questioned how the program would operate, whether congressional action was required, and its potential effects on international graduates and retention in the U.S.

  • The report is a brief, video-style segment adapted from a Welt.de news ticker.

  • The information is current as of December 10, 2025, with the story described as breaking and subject to updates.

  • Key limitations cited include no job-creation requirements, no caps, per-employee eligibility that raises costs for multi-hire employers, and ongoing political controversy around immigration.

  • Estimates from backers suggest substantial revenue and debt reduction potential, while critics doubt feasibility and equity, noting possible legal and procedural hurdles outside Congress.

  • The piece portrays the administration’s framing of the program as a revenue-generating, talent-attracting policy and notes early reactions without independent verification of feasibility.

  • Processing timelines indicate vetting and approvals can take weeks after fees and documents are submitted, including interviews and document requests.

Summary based on 45 sources


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