Thinking About Immigration to the U.S.? Read this before you buy a Trump Gold Card

If you’ve got $5 million burning a hole in your pocket and you’re considering using it to invest in the U.S., you might be wondering what options are available to you. Trump is heralding a new "gold card" lawful permanent residence program, but the U.S. already has strong investment-focused immigration options that make a lot more financial sense.

As an immigration attorney, I regularly help investors, entrepreneurs, and professionals secure visas that allow them to build businesses, hire employees, and pursue opportunities in the U.S. If you’re considering making the move, let’s talk about what strategy might be best for you.

Do You Really Want to buy your way into the U.S.?

First, ask yourself: What are your long-term goals? If you're simply looking for a country that will grant you residency or citizenship in exchange for financial investment, the U.S. isn't the only place with such programs. Many other countries offer more promising investment-based immigration options.

But if your goal is actually to live and work in the U.S., whether as an investor, entrepreneur, or high-skilled professional, then there are effective paths to securing a visa—without blindly handing over millions to Donald Trump.

The Smarter Way to Use Your $5 Million

If you could simply cut a $5 million check to the U.S. government for a green card, would that be your best move? Probably not. Instead, you could invest that money directly into a business, creating something sustainable that benefits both you and the U.S. economy.

Existing Investment-Based Visa Options

Here’s what currently does exist:

• The EB-5 Immigrant Investor Visa – A path to a green card for investors who put either $800,000 (for targeted employment areas) or $1 million+ into a U.S. business that creates jobs. A much better deal than hypothetically spending $5 million for a visa outright.
• E-2 Treaty Investor Visa – If you're from a country with an E-2 treaty with the U.S., you can invest in and run a business here with a temporary, renewable visa that allows you to bring dependents as well as certain employees of the same nationality.
• L-1 Visa for Business Expansion – If you already own a business abroad, you can use the L-1 visa to transfer to the U.S. and lead your company’s expansion here.

What If You Just Want to Work in the U.S.?

If you’re an accomplished professional, researcher, or even someone with specialized skills, you don’t necessarily need to be an investor to qualify for a visa.

For example:

• If you've won international recognition in your field (think athletes, artists, or industry leaders), you may qualify for an O-1 visa.
• If you work in a high-tech or specialized field, your employer may sponsor you for an H-1B or other employment-based visa.
• If you’ve made significant contributions to science, business, or education, an EB-1 green card could be an option.

In short: There is a way forward, whether you’re investing, expanding your business, or continuing your career in the U.S.

Let’s Discuss Your Best Option

If you're seriously considering U.S. immigration, you need a strategy—not just a price tag. Immigration law is complex, but I guide clients through the process every day, helping them find the best visa solutions without wasting time or unnecessary money.