Gold Card Immigration Program to Replace Green Cards

In a sweeping shift to America’s immigration system, U.S. Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick confirmed that the Trump administration is preparing to overhaul existing visa and residency pathways, including the H-1B visa program and green cards. At the heart of this reform lies a new initiative – the U.S. Gold Card immigration program – which promises permanent residency to foreigners willing to invest $5 million in the United States.

Speaking to Fox News, Mr. Lutnick sharply criticized the current visa structure. “I’m involved in changing the H-1B visa program. We’re going to change that program because that’s terrible, right? We’re going to change the green card,” he said. “That’s the gold card that’s coming. And that’s when we’re going to start picking the best people to come into this country. It’s time for that to change.”

Gold Card: A Residency-for-Investment Proposal

The proposed U.S. Gold Card immigration program would grant permanent residency to individuals who inject at least $5 million into the American economy. According to Mr. Lutnick, enthusiasm for the plan is already high, with an estimated 250,000 potential applicants waiting, potentially generating up to $1.25 trillion in revenue.

This program would run parallel to existing employment-based visas but marks a distinct pivot toward attracting wealthy investors alongside skilled professionals.

Trump Balances H-1B Support with Overhaul Promises

President Donald Trump, addressing reporters at the White House on Tuesday (August 26, 2025), struck a more nuanced tone. He reiterated his support for the H-1B visa, a system that allows U.S. companies to hire foreign professionals in specialized roles.

“You have to get the best people… We have to have the quality people coming in… By doing that, we’re expanding businesses, and that takes care of everybody,” Mr. Trump said, calling the H-1B visa program vital for industries reliant on global talent.

This statement mirrors Trump’s January 2025 remarks when he reaffirmed that “competent” and “great” individuals must be welcomed through the H-1B route. Yet, the simultaneous push for the Gold Card shows a dual-track strategy: rewarding wealth alongside high-skill talent.

Gold Card: Implications for Indian Professionals

The H-1B program remains crucial for Indian professionals, who accounted for over 72 percent of approved petitions in fiscal year 2023. Any restriction or reshaping of the system could heavily impact India’s IT and technology workforce, which has historically driven U.S. innovation.

Analysts warn that if opportunities for Indian workers narrow, U.S. firms may increase outsourcing or remote hiring in India instead of bringing talent to American soil. The potential disruption has already sparked debates online, with concerns about the long-term competitiveness of U.S. industries.

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