Assessing the Reality of the Trump Gold Card Visa Program in 2026

The government’s Gold Card visa advertises a $15,000 processing charge, background clearance and a $1 million contribution in exchange for expedited permanent residency under EB-1 or EB-2 categories, though visa availability still applies. A corporate variant charges a $15,000 fee per employee and a $2 million gift, with the ability to reuse contributions subject to maintenance and transfer fees. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick told lawmakers that only a single applicant has received approval, despite public claims of rapid scaling.

Court documents show 338 applications, 165 fee payments and 59 cases moving forward, far short of the program’s promotional narrative. The administration has admitted to courts that Gold Card applicants do not receive priority over regular EB-1/EB-2 candidates. Ongoing litigation contends the program unlawfully alters the existing immigration system, and attorneys caution wealthy clients about tax exposure and lack of statutory certainty. Experts suggest the option be limited to highly risk-tolerant individuals after evaluating tax, visa-availability and legal stability.