US President Donald Trump has launched a gold card programme that offers fast-tracked citizenship to wealthy foreigners who can pay at least $1 million.
Trump announced the card’s launch on Wednesday in a Truth
Social post alongside a website where interested persons can apply.
To apply, an applicant must pay a non-refundable $15,000
processing fee to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), after which a
background approval and a subsequent payment of $1 million must be made to
receive US residency in “record time”.
“Additional small fees to the U.S. Department of State may
apply depending on the applicant,” the website noted.
A separate corporate gold card was also launched requiring
businesses sponsoring employees to pay $2 million with additional fees.
The corporate gold card is subject to a one percent annual
maintenance fee and a five percent transfer fee, which includes the cost of a
new DHS background check.
A second platinum card, valued at $5 million, was also
floated. Though not yet launched, the card will exempt successful applicants
from certain taxes.
Successful applicants will also be able to spend up to 270
days in the US without being subjected to taxes on non-US income.
The scheme comes as the Trump administration intensifies its
anti-immigration programme, deporting millions of “illegal” immigrants, and
attempting to scrap a legal birthright citizenship framework for children of
undocumented immigrants.
Trump floated the programme earlier this year, suggesting
millions of such cards could be sold.
The official launch makes it one of the most expensive
routes to citizenship.
Citizenship by investment programmes globally often range
from $250,000 to €750,000.
Rights groups have criticised the gold card programme,
saying it contradicts the US’ traditional reputation as a refuge for the
hardworking poor and oppressed.
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