Trump’s proposal for a 'Pay-to-Stay' visa ignites discussion on economic benefits versus concerns over loss of skilled professionals

Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Launches the Gold Card Program [ 1 ] President Donald J. Trump has introduced the “Gold Card”

initiative, which aims to speed up the process of obtaining permanent residency for those individuals and companies that make large financial payments to the U.S. Treasury. Launched through an executive order dated September 19, 2025, this policy asks individuals to contribute $1 million or corporations to donate $2 million in order to be eligible for accelerated immigration status. These contributions, considered proof of “exceptional business ability and national benefit,” will be directed to the Treasury to support programs that boost American business and industry Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Launches the Gold Card Program [ 1 ]. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to “align federal immigration policies with the interests of the United States,” according to a White House summary Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Launches the Gold Card Program [ 1 ].

The Gold Card is a component of a two-pronged transformation of U.S. immigration policy, which also features a steep rise in H-1B visa fees. Under these new guidelines, the annual H-1B visa cost has soared from $215 to $100,000, making the expense for a three-year visa $300,000 in total Trump Sparks Global Immigration Firestorm: Hikes H-1B Fees to $100K and Launches Controversial $1 Million ‘Gold Card’ Fast-Track U.S. Residency Program [ 2 ]. The administration claims this price hike will “put American workers at the center of our economy” by reducing dependence on foreign skilled workers Trump Sparks Global Immigration Firestorm: Hikes H-1B Fees to $100K and Launches Controversial $1 Million ‘Gold Card’ Fast-Track U.S. Residency Program [ 2 ]. Yet, opponents argue that industries such as technology and engineering, which rely on H-1B professionals, could be negatively affected. Leaders in Silicon Valley have voiced fears that these higher costs may push talented workers to countries like Canada or the UK Trump Sparks Global Immigration Firestorm: Hikes H-1B Fees to $100K and Launches Controversial $1 Million ‘Gold Card’ Fast-Track U.S. Residency Program [ 2 ].

The Gold Card initiative has sparked both support and opposition due to its “pay-for-residency” format. Advocates point to the potential for massive revenue generation, with government estimates projecting more than $100 billion in proceeds. These funds are intended for deficit reduction, tax relief, and economic growth. On the other hand, legal professionals and immigration advocates argue that the policy favors wealthy applicants and companies, while excluding skilled immigrants who cannot afford such payments Trump Sparks Global Immigration Firestorm: Hikes H-1B Fees to $100K and Launches Controversial $1 Million ‘Gold Card’ Fast-Track U.S. Residency Program [ 2 ]. There are also questions about whether these fee increases for H-1B visas could be challenged as “excessive” under federal law Trump Shapes Gilded Age of US Immigration With $100,000 H-1B Fee [ 3 ].

The administration describes the Gold Card as a means of drawing “high-value contributors” into the U.S. economy, such as investors and entrepreneurs. President Trump has stated that this program will “raise funds and offer certainty to immigrants who can make impactful contributions,” and has secured major investment pledges from nations including Japan and the European Union Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Launches the Gold Card Program [ 1 ]. Nevertheless, the emphasis on financial input rather than traditional immigration qualifications has raised doubts about its long-term benefits. Analysts observe that while the program might temporarily boost Treasury revenues, it could also make it harder for midsize businesses and startups to bring in international talent Trump Shapes Gilded Age of US Immigration With $100,000 H-1B Fee [ 3 ].

With the Gold Card and new H-1B regulations going into effect, the consequences for the movement of global talent and America’s economic position are still unclear. Although the administration sees these measures as bold moves to revitalize the economy, tech leaders and the international community have voiced concerns about possible negative impacts on labor and innovation. Ongoing debate is expected in the coming months about whether these approaches will enhance the U.S. economy or contribute to a “brain drain” to other countries Trump Sparks Global Immigration Firestorm: Hikes H-1B Fees to $100K and Launches Controversial $1 Million ‘Gold Card’ Fast-Track U.S. Residency Program [ 2 ].