What Is the Gold Card?
The Gold Card is a new immigration pathway that allows someone to apply for a U.S. green card by making a large financial donation to the U.S. Department of Commerce. It is not an investment like EB-5; it is an unrestricted gift to the government.
Who Can Apply?
Any foreign national who:
- Donates $1 million personally, or
- Is sponsored by a company that donates $2 million on their behalf
The government will later announce the start date and application procedures.
How Does It Work?
Once the program opens:
- Submit the donation through the official Commerce Department process.
- File a Gold Card application (the government will create a special expedited system).
- Complete security and background checks.
- Get an immigrant visa or green card under EB-1A or EB-2 NIW categories -the donation itself counts as the required evidence.
- Pay additional administrative fees for expedited processing.
This pathway leads directly to a green card.
Is the Donation Refundable?
No. It is a voluntary financial gift, not an investment, and does not generate returns.
Corporate Sponsorship
Companies may “sponsor” the gift. They can later transfer the benefit to another individual if the original beneficiary gives up the status.
More information here: The Gold Card – The White House
Contact our office at 206 292 5237 or info@watsonimmigrationlaw.com if you have questions or would like help with your application.
