New “Gold Card” Immigrant Visa Program Announced

Under the order, an individual must contribute $1 million, or a corporation $2 million on behalf of an individual, to the U.S. Department of Commerce; such gifts may then be treated as evidence of eligibility under existing employment-based visa categories such as EB1 and EB2 (including National Interest Waivers). The order directs the Departments of Commerce, State and Homeland Security to establish the program and application process within 90 days of the order’s date. At this stage, detailed guidance—including filing mechanics, fees, and how visa numbers will be allocated—is not yet available. Stakeholders should monitor upcoming regulations and agency announcements carefully, as the program could impact investor and employment-based immigration pathways. 

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