US President Donald Trump recently drew attention by proposing a new investment threshold for obtaining a Green Card, raising it to $5 million and dubbed the “Gold Card . “ This announcement, part of his ongoing stance on immigration and the economy, has reignited the debate on selective immigration policies in the United States.
The EB-5 Program and Previous Amendments
The EB-5 program, created in 1990, allows foreign investors to obtain permanent residency (a Green Card) by investing in American economic projects. Under the Trump administration (2017-2021), the minimum investment amounts were raised: $900,000 in rural areas or areas with high unemployment (TEA) and $1.8 million elsewhere. The goal was to stimulate employment while filtering applicants.
Trump’s new proposal, unveiled during a campaign speech, would introduce a threshold exceeding $5 million, promising expedited processing and additional benefits. While not yet formalized, this idea aligns with his rhetoric combining capitalism and economic nationalism.
Stated Objectives and Reactions
For Trump and his supporters, this measure is aimed at attracting foreign capital
massive investments, financing infrastructure, innovation, or job creation. “Only the most serious investors will contribute to America’s greatness,” he said, emphasizing a wealth-based filtering process that benefits the economy.
However, critics denounce the commodification of citizenship . “This is immigration reserved for the global elite, ignoring deserving talent without resources,” argues Maria Cortez, an immigration lawyer. Others see it as a circumvention of traditional legal channels, exacerbating inequalities.
Perspectives and Implications
If adopted, this measure could generate billions of dollars, but risks reducing immigrant diversity in favor of an ultra-wealthy minority. Furthermore, it could prompt other countries to revise their own investor immigration programs, intensifying global competition for capital.
Trump’s proposal reflects a utilitarian view of immigration, prioritizing immediate economic benefits. It raises fundamental questions about fairness and national identity, promising to fuel debates well beyond the election campaign. Its future will depend as much on the outcome of the vote as on the political landscape to come.
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