President Donald Trump has launched a scheme offering fast-tracked US visas to wealthy foreigners who can pay at least $1 million (£750,000).
The card will give buyers a 'direct path to Citizenship for all qualified and vetted people. SO EXCITING! Our Great American Companies can finally keep their invaluable Talent,' Trump said on social media on Wednesday.
The Trump Gold Card, which was first announced earlier this year, is a US visa awarded to those who can demonstrate they will provide a 'substantial benefit' to the country, according to the scheme's official website.
It comes as Washington intensifies its immigration crackdown, including raising work visa fees and deporting undocumented migrants.
The Gold Card scheme promises US residency in 'record time' and will require a $1 million fee, which is evidence that the individual will substantially benefit the United States, the programme's website said.
Businesses sponsoring employees are required to pay $2 million, along with additional fees. A 'platinum' version of the card that offers special tax breaks will also be available soon for $5 million, the website stated.
Extra fees to the government may be charged depending on each applicant's circumstances. Individuals are also required to pay a non-refundable $15,000 processing fee before their application is reviewed.
The Gold Card scheme has faced criticism since it was first announced in February, with some Democrats arguing that it unfairly favors wealthy individuals.
When Trump first unveiled the plan, he described the visas as similar to green cards, which allow immigrants of various income levels to live and work permanently in the US. Green card holders typically become eligible for citizenship after five years.
However, the Gold Card is aimed specifically at 'high-level' professionals, with Trump emphasizing that 'we want people that are productive.'
'The people that can pay $5 million, they're going to create jobs,' he said, dismissing concerns about the program. 'It's going to sell like crazy. It's a bargain.'
Alongside this initiative, the Trump administration has directed significant resources towards deportation efforts and limiting immigration from specific countries under the president's travel ban.
In September, Trump signed an order to charge a $100,000 fee for applicants of the H-1B visa programme for skilled foreign workers, causing widespread concern among international students and technology firms.
