Gold Card U.S. Residency – What You Need to Know

Last Updated August 2026
Article Written By
Article Written by Alexander Jovy, Co-Managing Partner at Global Immigration Partners. 15+ years in E2 Visa, L1 Visas, EB5 Green Cards & investor immigration.
Reviewed By
Ruairidh Campbell , Senior U.S. Attorney, Co-Managing Partner.

The Trump Administration has introduced a donation-based immigration framework that includes the Trump Gold CardCorporate Gold Card, and a forthcoming Platinum Card. Contrary to some early speculation, the Gold Card does not replace the EB-5 investor visa program. Instead, it creates a new way to qualify under existing EB-1A (Extraordinary Ability) and EB-2 National Interest Waiver (NIW) green card categories.

Key Features of the Gold Card Program

  • Donation-Based Qualification:
    • Individuals: A $1 million nonrefundable donation is deemed sufficient evidence of extraordinary ability or national interest.
    • Corporations: A $2 million donation allows sponsorship of an employee. Transfer rules for sponsorship between employees are not yet finalized.
  • Existing Visa Categories: Gold Card applicants will ultimately receive EB-1A or EB-2 green cards, meaning visa backlogs still apply—particularly for nationals of India, China, and those using the NIW route.
  • Tax Obligations: Like all lawful permanent residents, Gold Card holders will be subject to U.S. tax on worldwide income and full reporting requirements.
  • Revocation Rules: Gold Cards remain subject to the same revocation standards as other immigrant visas.

The Platinum Card

A separate Platinum Card is planned, requiring a $5 million donation plus a processing fee. Platinum holders could spend up to 270 days per year in the U.S. without U.S. tax on non-U.S. income, though formal procedures have not yet been released.

EB-5 and Next Steps

The Executive Order mentions considering EB-5 visas for Gold Card eligibility, but EB-5 has not been replaced. Implementation procedures from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and Department of Commerce (DOC) are still pending. We can, however, start processing your Proof Funds for the Gold Card, ensuring it is ready for submission once applications are accepted.

Global Immigration Partners is closely tracking these developments. Our team can help you evaluate whether the Gold Card or other pathways—including EB-5 or employment-based options—are the right fit for your immigration goals.

 Contact us today for expert guidance and the latest updates on U.S. donation-based immigration programs.

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author avatar
Alexander Jovy - Senior Immigration Expert
Article Written by Alexander Jovy, Co-Managing Partner at Global Immigration Partners. 15+ years in E2 Visa, L1 Visas, EB5 Green Cards & investor immigration.