Interest is surging in President Donald Trump’s proposed “Gold Card” visa—a high-profile residency initiative designed to offer wealthy foreign investors a direct path to US residency and eventual citizenship in exchange for a USD 5M investment. Though the program is still awaiting formal rollout, it’s already sparking serious conversations among global investors and immigration strategists.
Positioned as a sleek alternative to the EB-5 visa, the Trump Gold Card aims to streamline the process for high-net-worth individuals by removing the job creation requirement and focusing solely on capital contribution. Trump has spoken of projections of up to USD 5T in capital inflow if one million cards are issued—potentially reshaping US immigration policy and making a noticeable dent in the national debt.
A global play for top-tier investors
While still in its conceptual phase, the Trump Gold Card is already drawing comparisons to top-tier “golden visa” programs offered by countries like Portugal, the UAE, and Singapore. Unlike the traditional EB-5 route, the Gold Card is said to prioritize applicants deemed “world-class global citizens and special talents,” with an emphasis on simplicity and speed.
One of the most talked-about features? The possibility that Trump Gold Card holders might be exempt from US taxes on foreign income. Though such a move would require navigating complex tax treaties and regulatory frameworks, it’s a bold proposition that could make the Trump Gold Card attractive for the wealthy with substantial foreign investments and income.
Website launch signals progress
In a sign that things may be moving behind the scenes, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick revealed new details during Axios’ “Building the Future” event in Washington, DC:
“I expect there will be a website up called ‘Trump card dot gov’ in about a week,” Lutnick said. “The details of that will come soon after, but people can start to register.”
He added that more information on the program will be shared in the coming weeks, suggesting that a formal announcement could be on the horizon.
Strategic planning for a fast-moving opportunity
With interest in the Trump Gold Card initiative gaining momentum, forward-thinking investors may reassess their financial structures, tax exposure, and long-term residency strategies. Becoming a US tax person can trigger significant reporting obligations and limit access to many foreign banks, as numerous institutions do not accept US-connected clients due to complex compliance requirements.
Additionally, most international wealth managers are not registered with the SEC, which legally prevents them from advising US tax persons. For these reasons, it’s essential to plan ahead—ensuring that investments are properly structured and managed through banks and advisors who are qualified to serve US taxpayers before taking on a Trump Gold Card and assuming US tax residency.
Enter Alpen Partners International, a Swiss-based, SEC-registered wealth management firm specializing in cross-border financial strategies. Our affiliate is known for advising both US taxpayers and international clients with a US nexus, Alpen Partners International helps high-net-worth individuals navigate US regulations while looking to maximize international investment opportunities. With strong ties in Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Monaco, and the US, they’re well-positioned to guide their clients through banking and residency options.
Beyond the Trump Gold Card: Global mobility planning
Alpen Partners International also offers guidance on alternative citizenship and residency options in Europe and beyond. Whether or not the Trump Gold Card moves forward, their team is equipped to deliver personalized strategies that aim to align with both financial and lifestyle goals.
Looking ahead
The Trump Gold Card may still be on the runway, but the momentum is unmistakable. For global citizens seeking a streamlined path to the US, and a potential tax advantage, the time to prepare is now. With updates expected soon, those who are ready will be best positioned to act when the program lifts off.
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