Who Qualifies for Trump’s Gold Card? Eligibility, Criteria, and Exceptions

With the rollout of former President Trump’s proposed Gold Card immigration program, many potential applicants are asking the same question: Who actually qualifies?

While this new pathway to U.S. residency has captured attention around the world, its rules are still evolving. Below, we explain what’s currently known about eligibility, financial criteria, and potential exceptions — and how Buenaventura Koss, PLLC can help you navigate this changing landscape.

Understanding the Gold Card Proposal

The Gold Card program, introduced through executive order in 2025, is designed to grant lawful permanent residence to individuals who make substantial financial “gifts” to the United States.

Unlike traditional visa programs, which focus on employment, family ties, or investment in businesses, the Gold Card bases eligibility primarily on direct financial contributions to the U.S. Treasury. According to early policy outlines, the program aims to attract high-net-worth individuals whose presence would provide measurable economic benefit to the country.

However, because the initiative was created by executive action — rather than an act of Congress — much of its implementation depends on future regulations and potential legal challenges.

Primary Eligibility Requirements

While official regulations are still pending, public statements and draft summaries of the program point to several key eligibility requirements.

1. Lawful Admissibility to the United States

Applicants must satisfy all existing admissibility requirements under U.S. immigration law. This includes background checks, medical exams, and security screenings. Criminal convictions, immigration fraud, or other disqualifying grounds could still lead to denial.

2. Financial Contribution or “Gift”

A defining element of the Gold Card proposal is the required financial gift to the U.S. Treasury.

• Individual applicants are expected to contribute approximately $1 million.
• Corporate sponsors may be required to contribute $2 million when sponsoring an employee.

These funds are intended to demonstrate significant economic benefit, replacing the traditional investment or job-creation requirements found in programs such as the EB-5 visa.

3. Demonstrated Economic or National Benefit

In place of traditional employer sponsorship or investment-based conditions, Gold Card applicants must show that their contribution aligns with U.S. economic priorities or national interests. The gift itself may be treated as evidence of “exceptional ability” or “national benefit,” similar to how national interest waivers operate under current law.

4. Visa Availability

Applicants must still fall within available visa categories and numerical limits. Even with a qualifying financial contribution, approval may depend on whether a visa number is available under the applicable preference category.

Exceptions and Uncertainties

Because this program was established through executive authority rather than legislation, several important exceptions and ambiguities exist.

Unsettled Legal Standing

Immigration law is traditionally governed by Congress. Whether a president can unilaterally create a new visa type remains an open question. This means the Gold Card could face court challenges or administrative delays that affect eligibility.

Not a Guaranteed Approval

Meeting the financial threshold does not guarantee approval. Applicants can still be denied for inadmissibility, incomplete documentation, or national security concerns.

Interaction with EB-5 and Other Programs

The Gold Card may overlap with or eventually replace the existing EB-5 investor visa. It remains unclear how ongoing EB-5 applicants will be treated — whether they will be allowed to complete their applications or transition to the new system.

Pending Regulatory Clarifications

Key questions — including how funds are transferred, whether dependents qualify automatically, and how permanent residency is documented — are still awaiting formal guidance from immigration agencies.

Who the Gold Card Is Intended For

Based on the available information, the Gold Card program is likely designed for:

• High-net-worth individuals seeking U.S. residency through financial contribution rather than investment management
• Business owners or entrepreneurs who wish to relocate and bring capital to the U.S. economy
• Corporate entities seeking to sponsor key executives or investors
• Individuals already considering investor visas who prefer a simpler, donation-based model

The program is not designed for family-based or employment-based immigrants, nor for applicants without the financial resources to meet the minimum contribution.

How Buenaventura Koss, PLLC Can Help

The proposed Gold Card represents one of the most significant shifts in U.S. immigration policy in years — and its success depends heavily on how the government implements it. Understanding your eligibility early and preparing a clear legal strategy can help you move quickly once the application process officially opens.

At Buenaventura Koss, PLLC, our attorneys can assist by:

• Assessing whether you meet the financial and admissibility criteria
• Evaluating how the Gold Card compares to other immigration options, including Green Cards and EB-5 visas
• Preparing supporting documentation to demonstrate eligibility and lawful intent
• Advising on how potential legal challenges or policy updates could affect your case
• Developing a long-term strategy for permanent residency and eventual citizenship

Even as the program’s details evolve, having experienced immigration counsel ensures that you are prepared to act with confidence and accuracy when opportunities arise.

Conclusion

Trump’s Gold Card proposal aims to simplify the path to U.S. residency for individuals with significant financial means. However, with new rules come new uncertainties. From evolving regulations to possible court challenges, it is essential to approach this opportunity with careful planning and legal insight.

If you’re considering applying under the proposed Gold Card program — or want to explore more secure and established immigration routes — contact Buenaventura Koss, PLLC today. Our attorneys can help you understand the options available, minimize risks, and take decisive steps toward your immigration goals.