Trump administration faces lawsuit over $1M ‘Gold Card’ visa programme
The Trump administration's 'Gold Card' visa program, offering residency for a $1 million investment, is being challenged in court as unlawful.Summary
The American Association of University Professors (AAUP) has filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration regarding its “gold card” visa program, which allows wealthy immigrants to pursue permanent residency in the U.S. with a $1 million payment. The lawsuit alleges the program violates immigration law and the Administrative Procedure Act, arguing it was implemented without proper statutory authority. The AAUP contends the program prioritizes wealth over merit and undermines the existing framework of U.S. immigration law.
The program, launched in December, utilizes existing EB-1 and EB-2 employment-based green card categories, treating the $1 million (or $2 million corporate) payment as proof of eligibility. Plaintiffs in the lawsuit, including researchers and physicians from Colombia, Mexico, and Taiwan, argue this redefines eligibility standards and disadvantages skilled migrants who traditionally qualify for these visas.
The complaint highlights that limited visa availability will lead to increased wait times for qualified applicants if “gold card” applicants are prioritized, potentially forcing them to rely on temporary visas for longer periods. The plaintiffs seek a court order declaring the program unlawful and halting its implementation.
(Source：The Economic Times)