On February 25, 2025, President Donald Trump unveiled a proposal to introduce a ‘gold card’ visa program that would require a $5 million investment to the US government. According to President Trump, the gold card would provide green card benefits and more, offer a pathway to US citizenship, and attract affluent individuals to the US to help reduce the national deficit. The administration has announced plans to release more details about the program in the coming weeks.
Potential Impact on the EB-5 Program
According to President Trump, the gold card proposal is intended to replace the existing EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program, which requires a minimum $800,000 investment into a US business and the creation of 10 full-time jobs per foreign investor. Under the EB-5 program, investors can gain US residency and eventually citizenship.
EB-5 Program Remains in Effect
However, it is important to emphasize that the EB-5 program has already been reauthorized by Congress until September 30, 2027. Despite President Trump’s proposal, the EB-5 program remains in effect and will continue as authorized by Congress. While the President can propose new immigration laws, he does not have the authority to ignore or override Congress’s power to create, amend, and enforce immigration laws.
Legislative Process for Immigration Policy Changes
Any changes to immigration policy, such as replacing or amending the EB-5 program, must go through formal legislative process and be approved by Congress. This ensures that the system operates under checks and balances, with Congress ultimately deciding the course of action on these matters.
The continued existence of the EB-5 program offers ongoing opportunities for foreign investors seeking US residency and remains a viable and well-established route to citizenship.
Stay Updated on EB-5 Developments
Our office is closely monitoring this topic and will continue to provide updates as they become available.
For further questions or legal assistance, please contact Rakesh Patel at rpatel@patellegal.com and Jacqueline Trevino and jtrevino@patellegal.com.