Trump's "gold card" proposal for super-rich

[WORLD] When Candice Meng, a real estate developer based in Guangzhou, southern China, first learned of U.S. President Donald Trump’s proposed “gold card” program offering permanent residency to the ultra-wealthy, her interest was piqued.

The requirement to invest a minimum of US$5 million in the U.S. to qualify struck her as reasonable, especially when compared to the steeper costs of similar “golden visa” schemes elsewhere. “It’s not expensive when you consider the return on investment – in Singapore, it’s at least 100 million yuan [US$13.9 million], and more than 60 million yuan for New Zealand,” Meng noted.

Golden visa programs have become increasingly popular among affluent individuals seeking improved lifestyle options and international mobility. These initiatives, which trade substantial financial investment for residency or citizenship, have been adopted by numerous countries, each tailoring the program to their own economic and strategic goals. The U.S. has consistently been a prime destination, thanks to its strong economy, prestigious educational institutions, and rich cultural landscape.

Trump’s proposed “gold card,” however, has stirred debate among investors and immigration policy experts alike. Supporters regard it as a savvy strategy to attract both capital and skilled individuals. Critics, on the other hand, warn that such policies risk deepening economic inequality and reducing residency rights to mere transactions.

As nations around the world vie for wealthy immigrants, the U.S. faces stiff competition from established players. Portugal’s Golden Residence Permit Programme, for example, has lured thousands of investors since its 2012 launch, requiring investment in property or job creation. Canada’s Immigrant Investor Venture Capital Pilot Programme also offers a route to permanent residency for those contributing substantially to its economy.

The proposed U.S. initiative presents both promise and pitfalls. While it could inject capital into critical sectors such as real estate, tech, and infrastructure, skeptics argue that the benefits might not trickle down equitably across American communities.

Nonetheless, the United States remains an appealing option for high-net-worth individuals. Its global standing in innovation, education, and cultural inclusivity continues to attract interest. For people like Candice Meng, the “gold card” offers more than a financial incentive—it represents a potential gateway to a more secure and prosperous life for herself and her family.