Nicki Minaj's Trump Gold Card Display Ignites Debate on Fast-Track US Residency
When global music icon Nicki Minaj recently showcased her Trump Gold Card as the first celebrity to do so, it immediately drew widespread attention to this controversial and expedited route for obtaining residency in the United States. This development has once again put the spotlight on a program that promises a swift path to lawful permanent status, albeit at a substantial financial cost.
The Financial Requirements and Process for the Trump Gold Card
To initiate the Trump Gold Card procedure, applicants must first pay a nonrefundable processing fee of $15,000. Following a thorough background check, a payment of $1 million is required to secure the card, which grants the holder lawful permanent resident status under either the EB-1 or EB-2 visa categories. After maintaining this status for five years, Gold Card holders become eligible to apply for full US citizenship, making it an attractive option for those seeking a faster timeline compared to traditional immigration pathways.
Nicki Minaj's Unique Circumstances and Background
Interestingly, Nicki Minaj did not have to pay for her Trump Gold Card, as she described it as a 'free gift' received while her citizenship paperwork was being finalized. Born in Trinidad, Minaj has openly shared that she entered the United States as an illegal immigrant at the age of five. She later gained legal status, and reports suggest she might leverage the Trump Gold Card to expedite her citizenship process, highlighting how the program can benefit individuals with complex immigration histories.
Key Differences Between Trump Gold Card and EB Visas
While the Trump Gold Card provides EB-1 or EB-2 status, it differs significantly from standard EB visas in several ways. Most notably, Gold Card visa holders are not required to create jobs in the US, a common stipulation for EB visa applicants. However, like all visas, the Trump Gold Card can be revoked on grounds of national security or criminal risk, underscoring that its privileges come with conditions.
Expedited Processing and Corporate Applications
According to official sources like trumpcard.gov, the Trump Gold Card process is designed to be remarkably fast, often taking only a few weeks after application submission. Applicants must attend a visa interview and provide any additional documentation as requested. The program also extends to corporate entities, which can apply for the Trump Corporate Gold Card for their employees. In such cases, apart from the processing fee, a $2 million gift per employee is required. A notable advantage for corporations is the flexibility to transfer sponsorship between employees without needing a new $2 million gift, as stated in program guidelines.
This renewed interest, fueled by Nicki Minaj's high-profile endorsement, raises important questions about accessibility, equity, and the future of US immigration policies, making the Trump Gold Card a topic of ongoing discussion in global circles.
