Nearly 70,000 people have applied for Trump’s new $5 million investment visa

The United States is once again at the center of global immigration news — this time due to the announcement of a new program unofficially dubbed the “Golden Visa” or “Golden Card.” According to official data shared by U.S. Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick, nearly 70,000 people have already expressed interest in joining this ambitious initiative, which requires a minimum investment of $5 million. The U.S. government hopes to issue up to 200,000 of these visas as early as this summer, expecting the program to bring over one trillion dollars into the country’s economy.
However, behind the bold headlines lie not only opportunities but also numerous unknowns. In this article, we explain what is actually known about the new program, what risks it carries, and why it is important to consider more established and accessible pathways to U.S. immigration.

The so-called U.S. Golden Card is an immigration initiative intended to attract large-scale investments into the American economy. The idea originated with billionaire John Paulson and is being advanced with the support of Donald Trump.

What sets the program apart is not only the investment threshold — starting at $5 million — but also the symbolism: the card itself is reportedly planned to be made of gold, emphasizing its exclusivity and prestige. While the concept is eye-catching, for now it resembles more of a political and PR project than a fully developed immigration program.

The regulatory framework is still under development, and the official launch continues to be postponed. The only functioning component today is a website where interested individuals can pre-register by submitting their name, email address and region of residence.

Although the program is marketed as an alternative to existing immigration pathways, the lack of legal clarity and operational guidance makes it risky for applicants — particularly given the political context. Administrative changes or legal disputes could significantly alter the rules or even cancel the program altogether.

If you are considering a move to the U.S., it is essential to understand that the Golden Card is neither the only option nor the most accessible one. A number of established, regulated immigration categories already allow individuals to obtain residency, work authorization or business opportunities in the United States:

• H-1B visa for highly skilled professionals
• L-1 visa for transferring employees of international companies
• EB-5 investor visa, requiring investments from $800,000 into government-approved projects
• E-2 visa for entrepreneurs from treaty countries

A particularly important option is the O-1 visa, designed for individuals with extraordinary ability — scientists, artists, athletes, entrepreneurs. It offers broad freedom to live and work in the U.S. without requiring major investment.

For short-term stays, visitor and business visas remain highly relevant — and Visa Dan provides end-to-end support to ensure the highest approval chances.

In short: real, proven, legally regulated alternatives already exist today.

Preparing a strong visa case is far more complex than submitting standard documents. It requires a strategic approach and a deep understanding of the nuances for each visa category.

For example, an EB-5 investor must:

• prove lawful source of funds
• prepare a detailed business plan
• demonstrate job creation
• meet all USCIS requirements

Even for tourist visas, it is critical to provide clear proof of ties to the home country and financial stability.

Typically, applicants need:

• a valid passport
• proof of income and financial assets
• police certificates
• medical records (where required)
• financial statements
• photographs
• DS forms

But the key to success is not the list of documents — it is the quality of the case, its consistency with legal requirements, and the correct presentation. This is exactly where professional support becomes essential.

There is still no official information on processing times or fees for the new $5 million “Golden Visa.”

For comparison:

• EB-5 applications typically take 1.5 to 3 years,
• the total cost of the EB-5 procedure can exceed $900,000,
• H-1B visas take 2–6 months,
• visitor visas are processed within 2–4 weeks.

But the determining factor is not time — it is the approval probability. Therefore, selecting the right visa category and preparing a strong case with expert support is critical.

When it comes to U.S. immigration, there is no room for error. Visa Dan provides full-cycle visa support — from selecting the optimal strategy to preparing and submitting the complete application package.

We work with:

• work visas
• investor and business visas
• family-based categories
• visitor visas
• extraordinary ability visas (O-1)

Our approach includes individual case analysis, legal verification, risk assessment and comprehensive support until the visa is approved. Clients receive not just documents, but confidence and clarity.

The U.S. Golden Visa is an intriguing political and economic initiative, but for now it remains more of a marketing concept than a functioning immigration program. For those who need a guaranteed, predictable pathway, the U.S. already offers multiple proven options.

Most importantly — do not attempt to navigate the system alone. U.S. immigration law is complex and constantly evolving. Visa Dan will handle the bureaucracy, risks and case preparation for you. You receive expert guidance and a clear plan of action.

Book a free consultation today and learn which U.S. immigration pathway is right for you.

Visa Dan is an international company with a strong legal team and experience in assisting more than 1,000 clients. We offer:

• Individual selection of solutions and strategies for obtaining a residence permit.
• Complete transparency and support at every stage.
• A strong team in Europe: lawyers, translators, operators, notaries.
• Support until you receive your ID card, as well as assistance with renewal and integration in the country.

The Visa Dan team will help you navigate this journey from start to finish. Get personalized advice and start your new life in 2025!