Introduction: The Buzz Around the Trump Gold Card
In recent weeks, the Trump Gold Card has taken the immigration world by storm, with headlines claiming that a $1 million donation to the U.S. government could fast-track your U.S. Green Card.
But how real is this opportunity, and should Indian investors consider this option?
As Paresh Karia, CEO of Acquest Advisors, explains,
“Before you sign that cheque or wire $1 million, it’s critical to separate fact from hype and compare it with tested programs like the EB5 Visa
For families exploring how to get a U.S. Green Card from India, the answer could determine not just speed — but security, legality, and return on investment.
What We Know So Far About Trump’s Gold Card
On September 19, 2025, the White House officially launched the U.S. Gold Card Program, designed to attract global wealth and talent by offering direct financial contributions to the U.S. Treasury.
Key Highlights of the Trump Gold Card
- $1 million donation for individuals.
- $2 million for companies sponsoring foreign workers.
- $5 million Platinum Tier, offering up to 270 days of U.S. stay per year without U.S. tax on global income.
- Applications to be processed under the EB-1 (Exceptional Talent) and EB-2 (National Interest Waiver) categories.
The final rules, covering eligibility, documentation, and processing timelines, are expected by mid-December 2025. Until then, much remains unconfirmed, making this an early-stage policy — not yet a guaranteed pathway.
The Catch: Key Concerns Around the Gold Card
While the Gold Card news may appear promising, experts caution that implementation may be more complicated than the headlines suggest.
Uncertain Timelines
Even if finalized by December, setting up administrative and vetting systems could take months — possibly well into 2026.
Backlog Reality
Indian and Chinese nationals already face multi-year waits in EB-1 and EB-2 categories. Unless new visa quotas are created, Gold Card applicants may simply join the same backlogged queue.
Legal and Tax Complexities
The Platinum tier may require Congressional approval, given its proposed tax exemptions, creating political and legal hurdles.
Source-of-Funds Verification
Just like the EB5 Visa requirement, applicants will likely undergo strict source-of-funds vetting, adding delays and scrutiny.
Bottom Line
U.S Gold Card Program might look like an express lane to the American Dream — but it could turn out to be a slow-moving queue with no refund policy.
The Proven Alternative: EB-5 Investor Visa
The EB5 Visa has been delivering U.S. Green Cards by investment for over 30 years — long before the Gold Card was conceived. It offers a structured, lawful, and proven pathway to residency for global investors.
EB5 Visa Investment Requirements
- Minimum Investment: USD $800,000 into a U.S. government-approved project.
- Job Creation: Must create 10 full-time U.S. jobs, contributing directly to economic growth.
- Capital Return: Investors often recover their funds after 4–5 years, with potential modest returns.
- Processing Time: Many receive conditional Green Cards within 12–24 months, especially through rural and high-unemployment categories.
Gold Card vs EB-5: A Smart Investor’s Comparison
When comparing the Trump Gold Card and the EB-5 Investor Visa, the differences are striking.
The Trump Gold Card requires a $1 million non-refundable donation, while the EB5 Visa involves an $800,000 investment that is refundable after the investment term. The Gold Card is a newly announced and untested program, whereas EB-5 boasts a 30-year proven track record of helping thousands of investors and their families obtain U.S. Green Cards.
Gold Card applicants would be processed under the EB-1 or EB-2 categories, both of which already face significant backlogs. In contrast, EB-5 operates through its own dedicated visa category, offering a far more predictable pathway. The Gold Card’s timeline remains uncertain until the final rules are released, while EB-5 typically offers conditional residency within 12–24 months through priority categories.
From a financial standpoint, the Gold Card means 100 per cent outflow with no return on investment, whereas EB-5 provides capital protection and the possibility of returns. The Gold Card’s tax benefits are unconfirmed and may require legislative changes, while EB-5 investors follow the standard U.S. tax framework. Most importantly, while the Gold Card has no proven track record yet, EB-5 has already enabled thousands of successful investors to achieve permanent residency. Additionally, EB-5 offers a bonus advantage through EB-5 rural category benefits, giving investors access to faster processing and reserved visa allocations.
Final Thoughts: Which Path Should You Choose?
Both the Trump Gold Card and EB5 Visa aim to attract global investors — but only one has a proven record.
While the U.S. Gold Card Program is surrounded by uncertainty and pending regulations, the EB5 Visa offers:
- A legitimate investment-based Green Card
- Return of capital within 4–5 years
- Transparent legal structure and RBI/FEMA compliance
- Secure U.S. residency through investment, not donation
If your goal is to secure U.S. residency for your family while preserving wealth, the EB-5 route offers unmatched clarity and reliability.
About Acquest Advisors
Acquest Advisors is a trusted immigration EB-5 consultant in India agency specialising in Business Immigration and Residency/Citizenship by Investment programs across the U.S., Europe, and the UAE.
We offer comprehensive, end-to-end support, assisting clients with source of funds planning and investment selection, whether in projects, property, or business, as well as documentation, business plan preparation, and foreign remittance. Our dedicated team ensures a smooth and hassle-free immigration journey.
How can Acquest Advisors help you?
At Acquest Advisors, we make this complex process simple and stress-free. We begin with a personalised eligibility assessment, reviewing your visa category to confirm if concurrent filing is the right path for you. Our experts manage your case from start to finish. With our team, you gain not only expert support but also peace of mind on your journey to U.S. residency.
Let’s take the next step in securing your family’s dream with clarity, confidence, and expert guidance from us.