What effect does Trump's Gold Card have on European Golden Visas?
Immigration policies aimed at investors are taking opposite paths on either side of the Atlantic. While Europe is restricting its residency-by-investment programs, the United States has introduced new options for its Gold Card program, designed to attract high-net-worth individuals. This contrast could transform the global landscape of international mobility.
Golden Visa in Europe: increased regulation
In recent years, several European nations have restricted or eliminated their residency-by-investment programs. The goal: to combat real estate speculation and guarantee genuine economic benefits. Countries such as Portugal, Spain, Ireland, and the Netherlands have reformed their regulations accordingly.
Portugal, for example, eliminated the real estate investment route in 2023. Now, applicants must invest at least €500.000 in authorized funds, donate to cultural institutions, or opt for the job creation.
In the case of Spain, the Golden Visa was abolished in 2024 to improve housing affordability in urban areas.
The United States and its gold card
In contrast, the United States launched the Gold Card, a residency option aimed at high-net-worth investors. This measure, promoted by President Trump's administration, offers attractive conditions without requiring the purchase of property in the country.
In addition to the original card, two more options have now been added, making the following choices available to interested parties:
- GoldCardIt requires an investment of $1 million. It allows residency in all 50 U.S. states and territories.
- Platinum CardValued at $5 million, it offers stays of up to 270 days per year without taxation on foreign income.
- Corporate Gold CardDesigned for companies that hire foreign talent. Its cost is 2 million plus annual maintenance. The residence can be transferred between employees for an additional fee.
Greece and Malta maintain active options
Despite the general tightening of restrictions in Europe, some countries continue to offer attractive schemes. Greece maintains the option of obtaining residency through property purchase, with a threshold of €800.000 in areas such as the Attica region (which includes Athens), Thessaloniki, Mykonos, Santorini, and other islands with more than 3,100 inhabitants, and €400.000 in other regions.
Malta, although it faced a legal setback in its citizenship program, retains investment-based residency routes.
Does the gold card compete with the Golden Visa?
Although the Gold Card and European Golden Visas offer residency pathways for investors, their approaches and benefits differ. While the latter provide access to the Schengen Area and the possibility of European citizenship, the US card stands out for its tax advantages and residency flexibility.
However, the elimination of several Golden Visas in Europe could redirect interest towards new alternatives such as the gold card, especially among investors seeking political stability, tax benefits and simplified procedures.
AIM Global: Experts in International Mobility
With new restrictions in Europe, US programs are gaining prominence as competitive options for global investors. The introduction of the Gold Card marks a trend toward more selective and personalized schemes.
Given this new scenario, having professional advice is essential to evaluate options, requirements and benefits of each program.
At AIM Global, we offer expert guidance for accessing Golden Visa programs in Portugal, Greece, and Malta, as well as the EB-5 visa for the United States. Our strategic approach ensures efficient and secure immigration planning for international investors.
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