US Gold Card Visa: Trump Opens High-Priced Fast Track to US Citizenship Amid H-1B Crackdown

In a bold move reshaping America’s immigration landscape, US President Donald Trump has introduced the Gold Card Visa program, offering wealthy individuals and exceptional professionals a premium route to US residency and eventual citizenship. Signed through an executive order, the initiative comes as Trump simultaneously tightens access for skilled foreign workers by sharply increasing H-1B visa fees.

A Costly Gateway to the American Dream

Under the new Gold Card scheme, foreign nationals can gain a direct path to US citizenship by investing at least $1 million (approximately ₹8.8 crore) in the United States. Applicants must also pay a $15,000 vetting and background check fee, ensuring that only serious and well-qualified investors apply. For corporations seeking to bring in key employees, a fast-track sponsorship visa will be available for $200,000 (around ₹1.76 crore).

According to Trump, the program is designed to generate billions of dollars in government revenue, which will be used to reduce taxes, pay off national debt, and fund public projects. He described it as a system tailored for wealthy investors, entrepreneurs, and highly talented individuals who can contribute to America’s economic growth and innovation.

Replacing Existing Green Card Categories

US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick revealed that the Gold Card is expected to replace the current EB-1 and EB-2 visa categories, which cater to individuals with extraordinary ability or advanced professional skills. He indicated that once the program becomes operational, other green card options could be phased out within a month, signaling a major restructuring of the US immigration system.

Lutnick also confirmed the launch of a Corporate Gold Card, allowing companies to transfer employee access rights for an additional fee. However, every applicant will be subject to Department of Homeland Security screening, along with a small annual maintenance charge.

Platinum Visa: A Flexible Premium Option

Alongside the Gold Card, the Trump administration plans to introduce a Platinum Visa, priced at $500,000 (about ₹4.4 crore). Holders of this visa will be allowed to stay in the United States for up to 270 days each year without paying US income tax on earnings during their stay. This option targets ultra-wealthy global citizens seeking financial flexibility without committing to full-time residency.

H-1B Visa Fees Skyrocket

While opening doors for the wealthy, Trump has moved to tighten entry for skilled professionals. The administration has raised the annual H-1B visa fee to $100,000 (around ₹88 lakh), a dramatic increase that will heavily impact technology firms and international workers—particularly from India, where thousands of professionals aspire to work in the US. Industry experts warn that the steep hike could disrupt the tech sector, which relies on global talent to maintain its competitive edge.

A Dual Immigration Strategy

President Trump defended the contrasting policies, claiming the Gold Card and Platinum programs will attract valuable talent and investment, while the higher H-1B fees will push companies to hire American graduates. “This is a path for those with extraordinary ability or the resources to contribute significantly to America’s future,” Trump stated, adding that the revenue generated would benefit US taxpayers.

What It Means for Applicants

The Gold Card and Platinum Visa represent a shift toward wealth- and merit-based immigration, rewarding those who can invest heavily or bring exceptional skills. For aspiring professionals, however, the surge in H-1B costs makes US opportunities more expensive and potentially out of reach. Immigration analysts predict the policy will widen the gap between wealthy investors and skilled workers, reshaping the global flow of talent.

With Diwali-like timing but a very different purpose, the Gold Card’s launch signals a future where America’s doors remain open—but only to those ready to pay a premium price for entry and opportunity.