Only 338 people have applied for Donald Trump's so-called 'gold card visa' months after its announcement, a new court filing reveals. The highly touted immigration scheme, which promises fast-tracked US residency for a $1 million fee, has failed to attract the anticipated flood of wealthy applicants.
Low Uptake and Revenue
The 'Trump Gold Card' is marketed as a visa for individuals who can demonstrate they 'provide a substantial benefit' to the United States. Applicants must pay a nonrefundable $15,000 Department of Homeland Security processing fee, in addition to the $1 million fee. According to the court filing, only 165 of the 338 applicants have paid the processing fee, resulting in a total revenue of $5,070,000 so far. This is far below the 'significant revenue' officials initially predicted.
Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, who first announced the gold card, told lawmakers in late April that only one person had been approved, with 'hundreds' in the queue. The $1 million fee is intended to prove that applicants possess 'extraordinary ability' or serve the 'national interest'.
Corporate and Platinum Options
Businesses can also apply for a 'Trump Corporate Gold Card' for $2 million, which allows companies to obtain US residency for their employees. The corporate version permits transferring access from one employee to another for a 5% fee. Additionally, a $5 million 'Trump Platinum Card' is 'coming soon', according to the official website, offering holders up to 270 days in the US without being subject to US taxes on non-US income.
The official government website features a picture of the gold card with a glowering Trump and the Statue of Liberty in the background. Additional fees to the US Department of State may apply depending on individual circumstances.
Criticism and Controversy
The scheme has faced criticism since its announcement, particularly from Democrats who argue it unfairly favours wealthy individuals due to its exorbitant cost. Critics contend that the programme prioritises money over merit and could exacerbate inequality in immigration opportunities.
Despite the low application numbers, the Trump administration continues to promote the gold card as a streamlined path to US residency for the global elite. However, the lacklustre response raises questions about the programme's viability and appeal among the target demographic.
