Trump Card Visa Draws 70,000 Sign-Ups in Days—Critics Call It Politicized Pay-to-Stay Scheme

By Evolution Staff • June 23, 2025

The Trump administration is making headlines again—this time with a new golden investor visa program known as the “Trump Card.” The initiative, spearheaded by Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, allows foreigners to obtain legal U.S. residency in exchange for a $5 million investment. Within days of its soft launch, the platform had already attracted nearly 70,000 sign-ups.

What Is the Trump Card?
At its core, the Trump Card is an elite investor visa—similar to the EB-5 program but rebranded under the Trump name, complete with a gold card featuring Donald Trump’s image. Applicants are promised legal residency and fast-tracked immigration processing in exchange for their investment, which must be directed into approved U.S. economic development zones or government-backed portfolios.

How It Works

• Minimum investment: $5 million USD
  
• Access granted: Legal residency for the applicant and immediate family
  
• Validity: 10-year visa with renewability and path to green card
  
• Application portal: trumpcard.gov
  
• Priority handling promised within 60 days
  

Controversy & Criticism
The program has raised eyebrows for its overt branding and perceived political profiteering. Ethics watchdogs argue the initiative blurs the line between public office and personal brand, especially given the use of Trump’s image and name on government-issued materials. Immigration advocates worry the program further entrenches a “money buys access” approach to American residency, sidelining humanitarian and merit-based applicants.

Political Implications
The Trump Card’s rollout comes at a politically sensitive time, just months before the U.S. presidential election. Some legal scholars argue a future administration could shut down the program entirely, making its long-term viability uncertain for current applicants. Others view it as a strategic maneuver to attract foreign capital and appeal to pro-investment voters.

Supporters’ Perspective
Proponents argue the Trump Card is a more transparent, efficient alternative to EB-5 and other investment visas, citing reduced bureaucracy and clearer terms. They also highlight its potential to bring high-net-worth individuals and job-creating capital into the U.S. economy.

Conclusion
Whether seen as an innovative immigration tool or a political stunt, the Trump Card investor visa is undeniably making waves. With nearly 70,000 prospective applicants already onboard, the program reflects both the power of brand-driven policy and the persistent global demand for U.S. residency—regardless of the price tag.

Additional References:

• Financial Times (@financialtimes)
  
• The Washington Post (@washingtonpost)
  
• Forbes (@forbes)
  
• CNN Politics (@cnnpolitics)
  
• Axios Political Desk (@axios)