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The future of the EB-5 investor visa program is in jeopardy following the recent announcement by President Donald Trump of a new immigration initiative: the Trump Gold Card. This new program would replace EB-5, significantly altering the way wealthy foreign nationals obtain U.S. permanent residency. For those considering EB-5 as their path to a Green Card, time is running out.

What Is the Trump Gold Card?

During a press conference at the White House, Trump revealed his plan to sell “gold cards” for $5 million each. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, standing beside Trump, confirmed that this initiative would replace the existing EB-5 program, which allows foreign investors to obtain U.S. visas by investing in job-creating businesses.

Trump emphasized that this approach would attract “wealthy and successful” individuals who would contribute to the economy through spending, job creation, and tax payments. Unlike EB-5, which channels investment into specific U.S. projects, the Gold Card program would require applicants to make a direct, non-refundable payment to the U.S. government.

What Does This Mean for EB-5 Investors?

For those currently considering the EB-5 program, this shift introduces major concerns.

• The cost is set to increase dramatically. The EB-5 program requires a minimum investment of $800,000, while the Gold Card demands a $5 million fee—more than a 500 percent increase.
• There is no opportunity to recover the investment. Under EB-5, investors place their money in job-creating projects, with the potential for capital return. The Gold Card requires an upfront payment to the government with no possibility of getting any of it back.
• Eligibility criteria remain unclear. Trump and Lutnick did not specify who would qualify for the Gold Card or whether applicants would need to demonstrate a history of business success.

What Should EB-5 Investors Do Now?

If the EB-5 program is eliminated, the ability to obtain a U.S. Green Card through a $800,000 investment will be gone. Given the uncertainty surrounding the program’s future, those considering EB-5 should act quickly before changes take effect.

The American Legal Center is already seeing an increase in investors rushing to file their petitions. Waiting could mean facing significantly higher costs or losing access to this immigration route entirely.

Contact Us Before It’s Too Late

Our team is available to guide you through the EB-5 process and ensure that your application is submitted before any policy changes occur. Secure your opportunity for U.S. residency today.

Schedule your consultation now!