
In a dramatic overhaul of U.S. immigration policy, the Trump administration has opened a waiting list for the highly anticipated “Trump Platinum Card,” which offers a pathway to long-term residency in exchange for a substantial financial contribution.
The new program, established alongside the more widely available “$1 Million Gold Card,” is aimed squarely at ultra-high-net-worth individuals, prioritizing direct wealth contribution over traditional job creation requirements.
The Platinum Tier: $5 Million for Maximum Freedom
The most exclusive option, the Trump Platinum Card, is not yet fully available, but the government has opened a waitlist on its official website, signaling an imminent rollout.
- The Cost: This card requires a massive $5 million contribution (plus a non-refundable processing fee after vetting).
- The Key Benefit (The Tax Break): Unlike the standard Gold Card or other permanent residency programs, the Platinum Card is specifically designed to allow the holder to spend up to 270 days per year in the United States without being subjected to U.S. taxes on their non-U.S. income. This unique tax benefit is a major draw for the global elite.
- The Status: The Platinum Card does not immediately offer a path to permanent U.S. citizenship, but it grants extended, non-visa-dependent residency privileges, essentially replacing the need for typical travel visas for long stays.
The Gold Card: Permanent Residency for $1 Million
The standard version of the program, the Trump Gold Card, is now actively available for application, having been launched via an executive order on September 19, 2025.
- The Investment: An individual must make an unrestricted “gift” of $1 million to the U.S. Department of Commerce.
- The Reward: Approved applicants (after paying a processing fee and passing rigorous security vetting) are granted Lawful Permanent Resident Status, commonly known as a Green Card, with an eventual path to U.S. citizenship.
- Corporate Option: Companies can also secure a Corporate Gold Card for an employee by contributing $2 million and can transfer this benefit to another employee later for an additional fee.
- Visa Classification: Gold Card holders are granted immigrant status, typically classified under the existing EB-1 or EB-2 employment-based visa categories, depending on the Department of Homeland Security’s determination.
A New Era of Immigration?
Both the Platinum and Gold Card programs represent a major shift in U.S. immigration policy.
- Financial Focus: Unlike the long-standing EB-5 immigrant investor program (which requires investment in a project that creates 10 U.S. jobs), the new “Trump Card” schemes require a direct, substantial financial contribution to the U.S. Treasury, with the stated goal of raising over $100 billion to support tax cuts and infrastructure.
- Waitlist Urgency: The official website for the Platinum Card advises interested parties to join the waitlist immediately, as applications will be processed on a “first-come-first-served” basis.
Conclusion
The launch of the Trump Card programs—especially the $5 million Platinum Card waitlist—signals a clear move toward a wealth-based immigration system for the U.S. While the $1 million Gold Card provides a direct, expedited route to permanent residency for high-net-worth individuals, the Platinum Card introduces an unprecedented tax incentive designed to lure the world’s richest citizens. This initiative is sure to spark continued debate about the role of wealth in American immigration.
Affiliate Disclosure
This article provides information about a new government program and is not affiliated with the program. We do not receive compensation for linking to the official Trump Card website.
Disclaimer
The Trump Card programs were established via executive order and their legal framework, especially the tax provisions of the Platinum Card, may be subject to future change, legislative challenges, or court review. The information provided is based on official government announcements as of September 2025. Prospective applicants are urged to consult with qualified, independent immigration and tax counsel before submitting any application or making any financial commitment.