The Trump administration has approved only one recipient of its newly established “gold card” visa program, which grants U.S. residency to foreigners willing to make a $1 million donation to the government, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick announced on April 23, 2026.
Testifying before a House subcommittee, Lutnick said the visa application process was recently finalized in coordination with the Department of Homeland Security, which manages the program’s processing. “They have approved, recently, one person, and there are hundreds in the queue,” Lutnick stated, emphasizing that government officials want to ensure thorough and precise vetting before issuing more approvals.
Describing the screening process as “the most serious … in the history of government,” Lutnick highlighted the administration’s caution in handling the program. The application window opened in December 2025 following President Trump’s announcement of the program the previous year. The government’s official website promotes the gold card as an expedited path to legal U.S. residency for wealthy foreigners.
Beyond the $1 million required donation, applicants must pay $15,000 in processing fees to the Department of Homeland Security. The Commerce Department did not disclose any details regarding the approved applicant’s identity or nationality. Questions directed to Homeland Security were deferred back to Commerce.
When questioned by Representative Grace Meng (D-NY) about how the $1 million donations will be utilized, Lutnick responded that the funds will be allocated toward “the betterment” of the United States, though specifics are to be determined by the current administration.
Why it matters
The “gold card” visa program represents a significant shift in immigration policy, linking residency to a substantial financial contribution. Its effectiveness and security measures are under scrutiny given concerns about expedited residency routes. The thorough vetting and limited approvals underscore the government’s intent to balance attracting investment with maintaining integrity in immigration screening.
Background
Announced by President Trump in 2025, the “gold card” visa was designed to bolster government revenue by offering a streamlined residency option for affluent foreigners willing to contribute at least $1 million. The program’s rollout has included a substantial processing fee and has been framed as a way to attract global capital while accelerating immigration approvals.
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