Trump’s “Gold Card” Visa Program: What It Means for Crypto Companies

The Trump administration has officially launched the Trump Gold Card, a high-value residency program that has sparked immediate debate across business and tech sectors. For the cryptocurrency industry—already navigating complex regulations and global talent wars—the program could present both opportunities and challenges.

Trump Gold Card in grayscale :)

What the Gold Card Offers

• Individual Option: For $1 million, foreign nationals can obtain a Gold Card, which functions as an expedited residency path.

• Corporate Option: For $2 million, corporations can purchase a Corporate Gold Card for one employee. The card is owned by the company, not the individual, and can be transferred to another employee for a fee.

• Processing & Vetting: Applicants must pay a $15,000 processing fee and undergo rigorous vetting by the Department of Homeland Security.

• Policy Intent: The administration says the program will replace “broken” visa categories such as the diversity lottery, shifting U.S. immigration toward attracting high earners, investors, and job creators.

Potential Upside for Crypto

1. Access to Global Talent

Crypto is one of the most international industries in tech. The Gold Card could provide a faster, more predictable way for companies to bring top developers, founders, and executives into the U.S. without the uncertainties of H-1B or EB-5 programs.

2. Capital Inflows and Legitimacy

Wealthy crypto entrepreneurs and investors could use the Gold Card to relocate to the U.S., invest in startups, and strengthen domestic operations. Residency through this official channel may also boost credibility with regulators, banks, and institutional partners.

3. Simplified Expansion

For firms wary of setting up U.S. operations due to immigration hurdles, the Gold Card lowers one barrier. This may encourage new crypto businesses to establish headquarters or branches stateside.

The Catch

1. Prohibitive Costs

At $2 million per sponsored employee, the Corporate Gold Card is out of reach for most startups and mid-sized firms. It’s likely to benefit only the wealthiest crypto companies or VC-backed giants.

2. Regulatory Scrutiny

The program emphasizes “rigorous vetting.” For crypto applicants, this means extra examination of asset origins, transaction history, and compliance with AML/KYC standards—potentially slowing or blocking applications.

3. Unclear Legal & Tax Implications

Key details remain vague: How will the U.S. tax foreign income? How will crypto holdings be valued during vetting? Until clarified, applicants face uncertainty around both costs and obligations.

4. Political Risk

Programs that tie residency to wealth often draw criticism and can face legal challenges. If courts or Congress push back, companies may find themselves in limbo.

Is It Good for Crypto?

The answer is mixed. For large players and ultra-wealthy crypto entrepreneurs, the Gold Card could be a fast track to residency, smoother expansion, and stronger positioning in the U.S. market.

For smaller firms and bootstrapped founders, however, the high entry cost and regulatory hurdles make it far less practical. And with lingering uncertainties over tax treatment and program stability, many may opt to wait and watch.

Bottom Line

The Trump Gold Card is being framed as a tool to “restore immigration’s true purpose: serving the American people first.” For the crypto industry, it could either become a gateway for global talent and capital—or remain an elite pathway accessible only to the few.

As always, the impact will depend less on the political headlines and more on how the policy is implemented in practice. For now, crypto companies should monitor developments closely, consult legal advisors, and weigh whether the potential benefits outweigh the risks.