11.12.2025 01:10
The U.S. administration has taken a notable step to attract foreign investors to the country. The officially launched "Golden Card" program offers expedited Green Card opportunities to those who invest $1 million. Announced with the aim of revitalizing the economy, the initiative has also sparked discussions about the notion that "citizenship can now be purchased with money."
The United States has officially implemented the controversial "Gold Card" (Trump Gold Card) program. Under the new regulation, foreign investors who make significant investments in the country are offered expedited permanent residency and a pathway to citizenship.
APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS ANNOUNCED
According to the decision published by the U.S. administration, the conditions of the program are as follows:
• Application fee: $15,000
• Investment after approval: $1 million
• Advantage: Accelerated Green Card process and easier access to apply for citizenship
Officials stated that the revenues generated from the program would be transferred to the U.S. Treasury and used for economic revitalization and industrial investments.
NO REFUND IF APPLICATION IS REJECTED
A notable point here is that the application fee is non-refundable. The fee, which is approximately 630,000 lira at today's exchange rate, is not returned if the application is rejected and remains as revenue for the treasury.
Moreover, the Gold Card can be unilaterally revoked if national security and serious crimes are involved.
PRICE DROP DRAWS ATTENTION
When the program was first announced, the investment amount was stated to be $5 million. However, due to low application numbers and intense criticism, the amount was reduced to $1 million. Experts interpreted this move as an acknowledgment of the failure of the initial version.
“THOSE WITH MONEY BECOME CITIZENS FASTER” DEBATE
The new implementation has led to criticisms that "the U.S. immigration system has been monetized."
Immigration experts indicate that the program may contradict existing laws, undermine the principles of equality and justice, and provide advantages only to foreigners with financial means.
GOVERNMENT IS THINKING ABOUT THE ECONOMY
The White House argues that the purpose of the program is to attract billions of dollars in investments to the U.S. It is stated that the donations will be used to strengthen strategic sectors.
U.S. President Donald Trump signed Presidential Decree No. 14351 on September 19, 2025, instructing the Secretary of Commerce to establish the Gold Card program.