President Donald Trump has announced the Gold Card, a new immigration initiative that provides expedited U.S. visas to affluent foreigners who are willing to pay a minimum of $1 million. This program is designed to create a 'direct path to citizenship' for individuals deemed to offer a 'substantial benefit' to the United States, according to the official program details.

Introduced earlier this year, the Gold Card is part of a broader trend of tightening immigration policies in the U.S., which includes increased fees for work visas and the deportation of undocumented migrants. The program promises U.S. residency in 'record time' for those who meet the financial criteria, with businesses sponsoring employees required to pay an additional $2 million along with other fees. A premium 'platinum' version of the card, which will provide special tax incentives, is expected to be available for $5 million.

Applicants must also submit a non-refundable processing fee of $15,000 before their applications are considered. Critics, particularly from the Democratic Party, have expressed concerns that the Gold Card program disproportionately favors wealthy individuals, potentially exacerbating existing inequalities in the immigration system. This initiative highlights the intersection of corporate interests and immigration policy, prioritizing affluent individuals over those who may lack the financial means to access similar opportunities.

Trump has compared the Gold Card to traditional green cards, which allow immigrants of various income levels to reside and work in the U.S. permanently, typically leading to citizenship eligibility after five years. However, the Gold Card specifically targets 'high-level' professionals, with Trump asserting that those who can afford the higher fees will contribute to job creation.

The introduction of this program coincides with the Trump administration's significant focus on deporting immigrants and has been announced alongside other restrictive measures, including a pause on immigration applications from 19 countries affected by the president's travel ban and a review of asylum applications previously approved under President Joe Biden's administration. Additionally, Trump has signed an order imposing a $100,000 fee for new applicants to the H-1B visa program, raising concerns among international students and technology companies about the accessibility of these pathways.