Trump Introduces Gold Card For Foreign Nationals As Alternative To Green Card Amid Visa Fee Hike

International News: US President Donald Trump on Friday increased the annual fee for H-1B visas to $100,000. This rule will particularly affect Indians working at major US tech companies. At the signing ceremony at the White House, Trump said the measure was aimed at providing jobs to Americans. The administration later said the measure would protect American workers and allow companies to hire "truly exceptional and talented individuals."

Trump Launches US Gold Card

The US awards 85,000 H-1B visas each year through a lottery system. Indians receive approximately three-quarters of these. Trump has also launched a new visa system, called the Gold Card, for foreigners who wish to live and work in the US. Trump said, "The Gold Card will bring in billions of dollars and allow companies to hire the expertise they need." According to the White House, this card will be given to successful businessmen, investors, and entrepreneurs. It is being said that this card may eventually replace the Green Card, which allows foreigners to live and work in the US.

How to get Gold Card?

A non-refundable application fee is required. If approved, a deposit of $1 million will be required. This translates to approximately ₹83 crore (approximately $83 million). The Gold Card allows you to travel and live in all 50 US states.

Trump Platinum Card

This will also be for businessmen, investors, and entrepreneurs, but with more benefits. Registration hasn't begun yet. When it does, it will be on a first-come, first-served basis. Upon approval, you'll have to pay 5 million rupees, or approximately 415 million rupees. This allows you to stay in the US for up to 270 days a year without paying US income tax during that time.

Trump Corporate Gold Card

This card is for companies that want to hire foreign employees. The fee is $2 million, or approximately Rs 166 crore, per employee. The company will pay a non-refundable fee for each employee. There will also be a small annual maintenance fee and a transfer fee.