n a world where mobility and global access are increasingly valuable, “golden visas” have become a popular route for high-net-worth individuals to secure residency or citizenship in foreign countries. With the United States proposing its own “Gold Card” program, it’s time to see how this new offering compares to established golden visa schemes around the globe.
What Is the U.S. Gold Card?
The U.S. Gold Card is a proposed immigration program designed to attract ultra-wealthy investors. Unlike the traditional EB-5 visa, which requires investment in job-creating enterprises, the Gold Card is expected to:
- Require a $5 million direct payment to the U.S. government
- Offer unlimited residency rights (similar to a green card)
- Provide a pathway to U.S. citizenship (details pending)
- Remove job creation and complex business investment requirements
- Feature a streamlined, faster application process
The Gold Card is aimed at ultra-high-net-worth individuals seeking a prestigious, simplified route to U.S. residency.
Comparing the U.S. Gold Card to Other Programs
Key Features Table
| Program | Minimum Investment | Investment Type | Path to Citizenship | Processing Complexity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| U.S. Gold Card | $5 million | Direct payment | Yes (details TBA) | Streamlined (pending) |
| U.S. EB-5 | $1.05M / $800K | Business, job creation | Yes (5 years) | Complex |
| Portugal | €500,000+ | Real estate, business | Yes (5 years) | Moderate |
| Greece | €250,000+ | Real estate | Yes (7 years) | Simple |
| Malta | €600,000+ | Donation, real estate | Yes (1-3 years) | Moderate |
| Singapore | SGD 2.5M | Business, investment | Yes | Rigorous |
| UK | £2 million+ | Business, investment | Yes (5 years) | Rigorous |
Pros and Cons of the U.S. Gold Card
Pros
- Prestige: U.S. residency is highly sought after globally.
- Simplicity: No need for complex business investments or job creation.
- Family Inclusion: Likely to include spouse and children.
- Direct Path: Expected to offer a straightforward route to citizenship.
Cons
- High Cost: The $5 million threshold is among the world’s highest.
- Taxation: U.S. residents are taxed on worldwide income.
- Details Pending: Some program specifics are yet to be finalized.
- No Schengen Access: Unlike EU golden visas, U.S. residency does not grant EU travel privileges.
How Does It Compare Globally?
- Investment Threshold: The U.S. Gold Card is more expensive than most European programs.
- Processing: Promises a faster, less complicated process than the EB-5 and some other global programs.
- Residency Benefits: Offers access to the U.S. market, education, and lifestyle, but with U.S. tax obligations.
- Citizenship Path: Like most golden visas, leads to citizenship, but the timeline and requirements are still being clarified.
Key Considerations for Applicants
- Tax Planning: Consult with advisors about U.S. tax implications.
- Family Needs: Ensure the program covers all family members.
- Mobility Goals: If EU travel is a priority, consider European golden visas.
- Long-Term Plans: Assess whether U.S. residency and potential citizenship align with your future goals.
Conclusion
The U.S. Gold Card is set to become one of the most exclusive golden visa options, offering simplicity and prestige at a premium price. While it stands out for its direct approach and the allure of U.S. residency, potential applicants should weigh the high investment threshold and tax implications against the benefits. As details emerge, the Gold Card could redefine the global golden visa landscape for the world’s elite.
