'Direct path to citizenship': Trump launches $1M 'gold card' visas
What's the story
United States President Donald Trump has officially launched his "gold card" visa. It is a new immigration pathway that will allow wealthy immigrants to pay $1 million to expedite their visa application, or for firms to pay $2 million to sponsor a foreign worker they want to bring into the US. Dubbed the "Trump Gold Card," the program promises a "direct path to Citizenship for all qualified and vetted people."
Visa costs
Gold Card scheme details and fees
The Gold Card scheme promises US residency in "record time" for a $1 million fee, which is said to be "evidence that the individual will substantially benefit the United States." Businesses sponsoring employees must pay $2 million plus additional fees. A "platinum" version of the card, costing $5 million and offering special tax breaks, will also be available soon, the website says.
Program defense
Trump defends gold card scheme amid criticism
Trump has defended the Gold Card scheme against criticism from some Democrats who argue it would unfairly favor wealthy individuals. He compared the visas to green cards, which allow immigrants of various income levels to live and work permanently in the US. Green card holders typically become eligible for citizenship after five years. "The Gold Card is aimed specifically at 'high-level' professionals", Trump said, emphasizing, "we want people that are productive."
Policy shift
Gold Card scheme's impact on US immigration policy
The Gold Card scheme has been launched amid a crackdown on immigration by the Trump administration. The US has also suspended immigration applications from 19 countries under the president's travel ban. In September, Trump signed an order to charge $100,000 for new H-1B visa applicants for skilled foreign workers. This decision had caused concern among overseas students and technology firms in the US.