President Trump announced $1.3 billion in sales of “Gold Card” visas—a “green card on steroids” for high-skilled foreign workers—since December 10, with proceeds paying down the national debt and businesses buying residency for top talent.

By yourNEWS Media Newsroom

WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump revealed Friday that his administration has sold over $1.3 billion in “Trump Gold Cards”—a new immigration program offering expedited residency to high-skilled foreign workers—since its December 10 launch.

“Sales have exceeded $1.3 billion,” Trump said, calling the Gold Card a “green card on steroids.” The program allows companies to retain top graduates from elite institutions like Harvard and Wharton, who would otherwise leave the U.S. after graduation.

How It Works

  • $1 million fee (paid as a donation to the U.S. Treasury).
  • Indefinite work rights for foreign workers.
  • Proceeds reduce the national debt.

“They graduate from the top schools. These people want to hire them. Now you’re able to buy a card and keep people in the country,” Trump said.

A Shift from Biden’s Immigration Policy

Trump contrasted his approach with Biden’s policies, which he said allowed 25 million people—including “prisoners, mental institution patients, and drug dealers”—to enter illegally.

“Under the Biden administration, 25 million people came in, and they came from prisons and mental institutions, and they were drug dealers and all sorts of people who shouldn’t be here,” he said.

Legal Challenges and H-1B Fees

The Gold Card program, launched via executive order in September, also increased H-1B visa fees to $100,000 (excluding renewals). Twenty states sued, arguing the fee exceeds executive authority.

Proponents say the program fixes flaws in the H-1B lottery system, while critics call it a “pay-to-stay” scheme.

What’s Next?

The administration plans to expand the program, with Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick leading the effort. Trump first proposed Gold Cards in February, initially suggesting a $5 million price tag for residency and citizenship.

“Wealthy people will be coming into our country,” Trump said in February. “This will reduce our taxes greatly and bring great people into our country.”

The $1.3 billion raised so far marks a rapid start—but the legal and political battles are just beginning.

Original article
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