Overview
- The Trump administration's $5 million Gold Card visa program is in a 'quiet trial' phase to test its application and vetting systems, according to Elon Musk.
- The program aims to replace the EB-5 investor visa, offering fast-tracked U.S. residency and citizenship to wealthy foreign investors.
- Proceeds from Gold Card sales are intended to contribute to reducing the national debt, with Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick previously claiming $5 billion raised from 1,000 cards sold.
- Critics question the program's legality without Congressional approval and express concerns about transparency, favoritism, and potential national security risks.
- The timeline for the program's full public rollout remains uncertain, with Musk stating it will follow the completion of the trial phase and a formal announcement by President Trump.