Trump's $1 Million 'Gold Card' Residency Program Sparks Immigration Debate
December 11, 2025
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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Sources

The Guardian • Dec 10, 2025
Trump launches $1m ‘gold card’ visa scheme amid immigration crackdown
Forbes • Dec 10, 2025
Trump ‘Gold Card’ Program Opens Applications For Million-Dollar Visas
BBC News • Dec 11, 2025
Trump launches $1m 'gold card' immigration visas
Yahoo News • Dec 11, 2025
Trump launches gold card program for expedited visas with a $1 million price tag