NextFin news, On Tuesday, September 30, 2025, the United States government introduced the Gold Card program, a new immigration initiative designed to expedite citizenship for wealthy individuals. The program requires a $1 million individual contribution to the US Commerce Department and includes a security vetting process.
The Gold Card program, announced by the White House, aims to replace the decades-old EB-1 and EB-2 visa categories, which currently provide green cards to immigrants with extraordinary ability or advanced degrees. Companies can also sponsor individuals for citizenship under this program by contributing $2 million.
White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller stated that the program "will set up a new pathway, a new visa pathway for foreigners of extraordinary ability who are committed to supporting the United States." US Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick explained that the program is intended to streamline and modernize the immigration process for highly skilled immigrants.
The EB-1 visa, established by the Immigration Act of 1990, allows individuals with extraordinary ability, outstanding professors and researchers, and certain multinational executives to obtain green cards without requiring family sponsorship or a job offer. The EB-2 visa is geared toward advanced degree professionals and is considered a second preference to EB-1.
Applicants for the Gold Card must demonstrate extraordinary ability through evidence such as nationally or internationally recognized prizes, membership in associations requiring outstanding achievement, published material about the individual, judging the work of others, original contributions of major significance, authorship of scholarly articles, artistic exhibitions, leading roles in distinguished organizations, commanding a high salary, or financial success in the performing arts. Examples of qualifying awards include Pulitzer Prizes, Oscars, and Olympic medals.
The program is expected to raise over $100 billion, with funds directed toward tax cuts and reducing federal debt, according to Lutnick. President Donald Trump emphasized that the program will help retain productive individuals in the country and generate significant revenue.
However, the program has faced criticism. US Senator Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) condemned the initiative as an "illegal pay-to-play scheme" that prioritizes wealth over merit and undermines American values. Durbin warned that the program could advantage wealthy foreign nationals, including cartel bosses and oligarchs, over hardworking immigrants.
The Gold Card program also aims to reduce the lengthy processing times and strict scrutiny associated with the EB-1 visa, which has grown in popularity over the years. Immigration experts note that EB-1 applicants must meticulously document their achievements to meet the demanding criteria.
The US Citizenship and Immigration Services website provides detailed information on the criteria for extraordinary ability and the application process for the new Gold Card program.
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