Trump Approves First $1 Million “Gold Card,” Sparking Immigration Controversy

First Millionaire Visa Approved

Hundreds Await Approval

Program Draws Criticism

The so-called “Trump Gold Card” now has its first approved beneficiary, as confirmed by government officials.

Why it matters: The Trump gold card visa program introduces a migration pathway based on multimillion-dollar investment, offering benefits similar to permanent residency and a potential route to citizenship.

The Secretary of Commerce, Howard Lutnick, reported that the first visa under this scheme has already been approved.

The announcement was made during a hearing before a subcommittee of the House of Representatives.

Government Confirms First ‘Trump Gold Card’ Visa

So far, only one person has been approved for Trump’s “Gold Card” visa, the program that grants U.S. residency to foreigners in exchange for one million dollars.
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Lutnick noted that there are “hundreds on the waiting list” interested in obtaining this benefit.

The identity of the first approved foreign applicant has not been disclosed.

The official emphasized that the background check process is the most rigorous applied by the government.

He also confirmed that the application process was finalized recently.

Coordination was carried out with the Department of Homeland Security.

How the Multimillion-Dollar Immigration Program Works

The U.S. has approved the first golden card that allows millionaires to reside in the country.
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The immigration program was launched in December by President Donald Trump.

It includes three modalities aimed at different applicant profiles.

The individual option costs one million dollars.

There is also a corporate option designed for companies.

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In that case, the price rises to two million dollars.

Both options include an additional administrative fee.

The extra cost is $15,000 and is non-refundable.

Additionally, a premium version of the program was introduced.

This is the “platinum card,” priced at five million dollars.

This option was promoted with additional benefits.

Details were published on an official portal at the end of 2025, further shaping the Trump gold card visa program.

Questions and Use of Funds

Democratic Representative Grace Meng questioned how the program operates.

She requested clarity on the process and the use of the collected funds.

She also raised concerns about the pathway to citizenship.

Lutnick responded that the funds will be used to improve the United States.

No specific details were provided on how those resources will be allocated.

The Secretary reiterated that the Trump gold card visa program aims to attract foreign investment.

He also emphasized that strict controls are applied to applicants.

The framework offers benefits comparable to permanent residents.

Beneficiaries are expected to eventually gain access to citizenship.

Even so, further details about final criteria have not been disclosed.

The immigration program remains under development as global interest grows.

Authorities have not specified timelines for additional approvals.