Trump’s $1 million ‘gold card’

The White House has confirmed that only one person has officially been approved for Donald Trump’s new “Gold Card” visa program, despite earlier claims suggesting much stronger demand.

Trump introduced the program in December, describing it as a faster route to American citizenship. He called it a “green card on steroids,” aimed at wealthy foreigners willing to invest heavily in the United States.

Applicants must pay $1 million plus a non-refundable $15,000 processing fee. Officials say this payment serves as proof that the applicant would provide major economic benefits to the country.

Businesses can also sponsor employees through the program by paying $2 million along with extra fees. The scheme’s website also mentions a future “Platinum Card,” expected to cost $5 million.

Trump previously said the plan would attract high-level professionals and wealthy investors who could create jobs. He claimed the offer was a bargain and predicted it would become extremely popular.

Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick had earlier suggested the government had already sold $1.3 billion worth of cards. However, he later told Congress that only one person had actually been approved, while hundreds remain in line for review.

Lutnick said the Department of Homeland Security is using strict screening standards, calling it one of the toughest vetting systems ever. Meanwhile, rapper Nicki Minaj appeared to show a Gold Card online, but officials later clarified it was only a souvenir, not an official visa approval.