Trump’s New $5 Million ‘Gold Card’ Visa: A Magnet for Wealthy Arab Investors?
While the gold card initiative could attract substantial foreign capital, some investors have reservations.
US President Donald Trump has unveiled a high-priced residency program that’s already turning heads among wealthy Arab investors. Dubbed the “gold card” visa, this $5 million initiative aims to offer economic stability, US market access, and a prestigious residency status—all while helping to reduce the national deficit.
With Gulf nations like Saudi Arabia successfully running their own golden visa schemes, this move positions the US as a top contender for high-net-worth individuals looking for a new home for their wealth and business ventures.
A Gateway for Arab Investors
Salman Al-Ansari, a geopolitical analyst and former investor in the US, sees this as an opportunity to strengthen economic ties between the US and the Arab world—especially Saudi Arabia.
“Saudi investors have always been eager to expand into the US market, particularly in technology, real estate, and energy sectors,” Al-Ansari told Arab News. “A more accessible visa process could encourage even greater collaboration and economic integration.”
Trump’s program is set to replace the EB-5 visa, which since 1990 has granted green cards to investors who put in around $1 million into US businesses that create or sustain at least 10 full-time American jobs. The new initiative, Trump argues, will not only bring in revenue but also generate jobs as wealthy individuals set up businesses and expand existing ventures in the US.
“A lot of people are going to want to be in this country,” Trump said in an Oval Office announcement. “And they’ll be able to work, provide jobs, and build companies. It’ll be people with money.”
What Makes the US Offer Unique?
Despite increasing competition from other countries with similar golden visa programs, the US remains a highly attractive destination. Julien Hawari, CEO of UAE-based Million, believes the American market offers unparalleled advantages.
“The speed, depth, and range of opportunities in the US are exceptional,” Hawari noted. “Under a Trump administration, the country could become even more attractive, with key decision-makers coming from the private sector—people like Elon Musk, for example.”
Trump described the initiative as a “green card-plus,” highlighting its potential as a path to citizenship. The plan is expected to launch within weeks, with Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick calling it a direct replacement for the “fraud-ridden” EB-5 program.
America First—But With a Luxury Twist
For many observers, the gold card visa represents a shift in US immigration policy, focusing more on financial investment rather than traditional employment-based or family-sponsored immigration.
Al-Ansari views this as an extension of Trump’s “America First” philosophy. “This initiative prioritizes quality over quantity,” he said. “The US has always been a magnet for immigrants, and this policy ensures that those entering contribute meaningfully to the economy.”
Countries like Portugal, Canada, and Australia offer similar programs, but the US scheme’s hefty price tag positions it as an elite option for the ultra-wealthy. Hawari sees lessons in the success of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) golden visas, suggesting the US program could have a comparable impact.
“Look at the GCC—their programs have transformed economies,” he explained. “The influx of ultra-high-net-worth individuals has driven real estate, investment, and economic growth. The US program could have a similar effect.”
Will the High Cost Deter Investors?
While the gold card initiative could attract substantial foreign capital, some investors have reservations.
Al-Ansari pointed out a key concern: taxation. “I’m not sure investors, including myself, would want permanent residency, as it comes with global tax obligations under FATCA,” he said. “It would be more attractive if the golden visa were a standalone option rather than bundled with a green card.”
If structured correctly, the initiative could spur an influx of high-net-worth individuals moving their businesses and assets to the US, benefiting key industries such as tourism, manufacturing, and services.
Hawari agreed, predicting that sectors like real estate, technology, hospitality, and finance would likely see the biggest gains. “Almost every industry in the GCC benefited from their programs. I expect the same in the US, especially in high-growth sectors.”
GCC’s Success Stories in Golden Residency
Saudi Arabia launched its permanent residency program—commonly known as the Saudi Green Card—in 2019 as part of its Vision 2030 plan. For SR800,000 ($213,000), investors can gain permanent residency, while an annually renewable option is available for SR100,000. The program has successfully attracted skilled expatriates and investors, driving economic diversification.
Similarly, the UAE’s Golden Visa, launched in 2019, offers renewable 5- to 10-year residency permits for investors, entrepreneurs, and professionals in key fields. Qatar has also opened up its property market, granting foreign investors expanded ownership rights through its Investment Residence Program.
These initiatives have boosted real estate, hospitality, and other key sectors in the region—an impact the US hopes to replicate with its gold card program.
What’s Next?
As more details emerge, Trump’s new visa initiative is expected to attract global attention. The coming weeks will determine whether this program will be a game-changer for wealthy investors—or just another luxury option in an already competitive market. Either way, America’s golden visa era is about to begin.
