Gold Card vs. EB-5: What’s the Best Option for Investors?

With the recent announcement of the U.S. "Gold Card" program, many investors are wondering how it compares to the well-established EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program. While details on the Gold Card are still emerging, and more information is expected in the coming weeks, both programs offer pathways to U.S. residency but cater to different investor profiles. Here’s a breakdown of how these two programs stack up and which one might be the best fit for you.

Overview of the Gold Card

The Gold Card, as proposed, would grant immediate U.S. residency to foreign nationals who invest $5 million into the U.S. economy. However, since full details have yet to be released, it remains unclear whether this program will have additional requirements or whether any part of it will require congressional approval. Unlike the EB-5 program, the Gold Card is expected to offer a streamlined residency-by-investment pathway, focusing on attracting ultra-high-net-worth individuals.

Overview of the EB-5 Visa

The EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program has been a staple of U.S. investment immigration for decades. It allows foreign investors to obtain a Green Card by investing $800,000 to $1,050,000 in a qualifying U.S. business that creates at least 10 full-time jobs for American workers.

The EB-5 Regional Center (RC) Program was extended until September 30, 2027, under the EB-5 Reform and Integrity Act (RIA) of 2022. Furthermore, investors who have already invested or plan to invest before September 2026 will be protected from potential program lapses due to the RIA’s grandfathering provision. This ensures that even if the program is not reauthorized beyond 2027, eligible investors who apply before the cutoff date will still have their applications processed under the current regulations.

Key Differences Between Gold Card & EB-5

• Minimum Investment:

  • Gold Card: $5 million

  • EB-5: $800,000 - $1,050,000

• Job Creation Requirement:

  • Gold Card: Unknown (awaiting details)

  • EB-5: Yes (10 jobs)

• Processing Time:

  • Gold Card: Expected to be fast

  • EB-5: Can take several years

• Pathway to Citizenship:

  • Gold Card: Yes

  • EB-5: Yes, after 5 years as a Green Card holder

• Risk Level:

  • Gold Card: Higher upfront cost, investment appears to be non-refundable, but faster processing

  • EB-5: Lower investment, funds at risk for a period, but the investor may receive the investment back in the future after a few years

• Investment Type:

  • Gold Card: Awaiting details

  • EB-5: Must be in a New Business Enterprise - Direct Investment or through a Regional Center

• Program Expiration:

  • Gold Card: Unknown

  • EB-5: Regional Center Program authorized until September 30, 2027

Which Option is Right for You?

• Choose the Gold Card if: You have $5 million in liquid assets, prefer a faster residency process, and do not want to worry about job creation or business risks. However, given the lack of detailed information, it is advisable to wait for the official release of requirements before making a decision.

• Choose the EB-5 Visa if: You want a lower-cost investment option, are comfortable with business ownership or regional center investments, and can wait for the longer processing time. This is best for investors who want a structured, long-term pathway to U.S. residency. Additionally, with the EB-5 Regional Center Program authorized until 2027 and the RIA’s grandfathering clause protecting investors through September 2026, now is an ideal time to apply and secure grandfathered status.

Final Thoughts

While the Gold Card may offer a fast-track residency route, the EB-5 program remains a viable option for investors seeking a more affordable yet structured pathway to permanent residency. Since full details of the Gold Card are expected in the coming weeks by mid-March, potential investors should stay informed before making any decisions. Congressional approval may potentially be required as well, as Congress authorized the EB-5 program and if the Gold Card is categorized as a "visa."

At Khanections Law, we specialize in investment immigration and can help you navigate both programs. Contact us today to discuss which option is best for your needs! Book a consultation appointment with Attorney Saif M. Khan, Esq., at www.khanectionslaw.com or www.TheGoldCard.US.