Wealthy Investors Targeted: Trump Administration Unveils ‘Gold Card’ Plan and H-1B Visa Overhaul

The Trump administration is planning major changes to the US immigration system, especially the H-1B visa program and green cards. Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick announced the plan. A central element of the proposal is a “gold card” program. This program would allow wealthy foreign investors to obtain US residency by investing USD 5 million. Lutnick confirmed that there will be changes to the H-1B visa program. He described the “gold card” as a method for attracting the best individuals to the country. He stated that there is considerable interest in the program, with about 250,000 potential applicants. In January 2025, Trump reasserted his commitment to the H-1B visa program, which allows US employers to recruit foreign workers for specialized jobs. He emphasized the need for “competent” and “great” individuals. Trump highlighted the significance of bringing skilled individuals to the country at the White House. He cited the H-1B visa program as key to bolstering the economy. He maintained that by allowing ‘quality people’ into the country, the country’s businesses will be better off. During his first term, Trump implemented restrictions on H-1B visas, due to concerns about ‘abuse’ and the impact on the economy. In 2016, Trump criticized the H-1B program, arguing it could replace American workers with lower-paid foreign employees.