Only one Trump “gold card” visa has been approved, Lutnick says

The Trump administration has issued its first “gold card” visa, a new U.S. residency permit for wealthy foreigners, since applications began in December. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick announced this during a House subcommittee hearing, noting that the application process was finalized with the Department of Homeland Security, which manages the program. The visa requires a $1 million donation to the U.S. government and a $15,000 processing fee. Lutnick emphasized the rigorous vetting process, describing it as the most thorough in government history. President Trump introduced the program as a way to expedite legal residency for affluent foreigners and boost government revenue. While hundreds of applications are pending, only one has been approved so far. The use of the $1 million donations will be determined by the administration for the country’s betterment. QUESTION: How might the introduction of the “gold card” visa program impact perceptions of immigration and residency in the U.S.?