Trump’s ‘Gold Card’ Visa vs. Global Golden Visa Programs: How Do They Compare?

Trump’s New ‘Gold Card’ Visa Plan: A Game Changer?

Former U.S. President Donald Trump has proposed a new ‘Gold Card’ visa program, which would provide a pathway to U.S. citizenship for investors who commit $5 million (approximately ₹44 crore). The plan, set to be officially unveiled in two weeks, is expected to replace the existing EB-5 investor visa program, which has a lower investment threshold and job creation requirements.

• Under the current EB-5 investor visa program (in place since 1990), foreign investors must invest between $800,000 and $1.05 million in U.S. businesses that create at least 10 full-time jobs.
• The Gold Card visa program is designed for ultra-high-net-worth individuals, unlike EB-5, which catered to a broader range of investors.
• The new scheme is expected to offer a more streamlined application process compared to the complex EB-5 requirements.
• Trump claims the program will also allow American companies to hire skilled graduates, including from India.

With a $5 million investment requirement, Trump’s gold card visa is set to be among the costliest golden visas globally. Here’s how it compares with similar investor visa programs worldwide.

Golden Visa Programs Around the World: Investment Requirements & Benefits

1. Australia National Innovation Visa

• No direct financial contribution is required.
• A permanent visa for individuals with an exceptional record of achievement in a sector or future-focused industries.
• Allows permanent residency, work, study, and access to public healthcare.
• Application cost: AUD 4,840 (approx. ₹2.66 lakh).

2. Canada Start-Up Visa

• Designed for entrepreneurs to establish innovative businesses in Canada.
• Investment required: $215,000 to $275,000 depending on the start-up.
• After three years of permanent residence, applicants can apply for Canadian citizenship.

3. Greece Golden Visa

• One of Europe’s most affordable residence-by-investment programs.
• Minimum investment: €250,000 (approx. ₹2.28 crore) in real estate.
• Provides visa-free travel in the Schengen Area.
• No requirement to reside in Greece; applicants can rent out their property.
• Citizenship eligibility after seven years of residence.

4. Luxembourg Residence by Investment Program

• Introduced in 2017 as one of Europe’s newest golden visa programs.
• Investment options range from €500,000 in an existing Luxembourg company to €20 million in a financial institution.

5. Malta Permanent Residence Program

• Gaining popularity among Indian investors.
• Investment options:
  • Property purchase: €375,000 or a five-year lease of €14,000 annually.
  • Economic contribution: €30,000 (if property is purchased) or €60,000 (if leased).
  • Additional fees: €50,000 administration fee + €10,000 per dependent + €2,000 donation to a non-governmental organization.

6. New Zealand Investor Visa

• Two investment categories:
  • Growth Option: NZ$5 million (approx. ₹25 crore) for three years in high-risk investments.
  • Balanced Option: NZ$10 million (approx. ₹50 crore) for five years in lower-risk assets.
• Minimum stay: 21 days per year during the investment period.

7. Portugal Golden Residence Permit Program

• Provides visa-free access to the Schengen Area.
• Low residency requirement: only seven days per year in Portugal over five years.
• Investment options:
  • €250,000 for cultural or artistic projects.
  • €500,000 for local business investments.

8. Singapore Global Investor Program

• One of the world’s most expensive golden visas.
• Investment options:
  • SGD 10 million (approx. ₹62 crore) into a business employing at least 30 people.
  • SGD 25 million into a Singapore Economic Development Board-approved fund.
  • SGD 200 million assets under management for a family office setup.

9. UAE Residence by Investment

• One of the most business-friendly golden visa programs globally.
• Minimum real estate investment: AED 2 million (approx. ₹5 crore).
• Offers a 10-year renewable residence visa.
• No personal income tax, capital gains tax, or wealth tax, making it highly attractive to investors.

How Does Trump’s ‘Gold Card’ Visa Compare?

Is Trump’s Gold Card Worth It?

• Higher Investment Threshold: At $5 million, the U.S. Gold Card visa is significantly pricier than existing options like Canada, Portugal, or Greece.
• No Job Creation Requirement: Unlike EB-5, this new visa removes job creation conditions, making it more appealing to passive investors.
• Uncertain Policy Direction: The details of the program are yet to be disclosed, and potential changes under future U.S. administrations could impact its long-term viability.
• Global Competition: Countries like Portugal, Greece, and the UAE offer more affordable and flexible options, making them strong alternatives.

For ultra-wealthy investors seeking U.S. citizenship through investment, the Gold Card visa presents an exclusive opportunity. However, for those prioritizing cost-effectiveness, flexibility, or EU residency, other golden visa programs might be more attractive.