Donald Trump’s Immigration Shake-Up Opens New Doors
President Donald Trump’s latest immigration measures are reshaping the US landscape – raising costs for employers while creating new donation-based investor pathways. According to Henley & Partners, the developments could unlock opportunities for international investors.
On 19 September 2025, the Trump Administration announced sweeping changes.
A new proclamation imposes a $100,000 fee on every H-1B petition, while two fresh initiatives – the so-called Gold Card and Platinum Card – introduce donation-based routes with potential appeal to high-net-worth individuals.
Three Measures Redefining Access
The H-1B Proclamation dramatically raises the cost of employer sponsorship. The Gold Card Executive Order allows individuals to donate $1 million, or corporations $2 million, in exchange for expedited approvals.
Meanwhile, the proposed Platinum Card envisions a $5 million contribution for up to 270 days of US presence without foreign income taxation.
Global Investors Taking Notice
«The announcements are already attracting significant interest among international investors,» Henley & Partners noted.
Rising H-1B costs may push more professionals toward self-directed routes, while the streamlined Gold Card is seen as especially appealing. Even the unfinalized Platinum Card has caught the eye of ultra-wealthy families focused on tax planning.
EB-5: The Reliable Anchor
Despite the buzz, Henley & Partners stresses that the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program remains the most established and legislatively anchored pathway.
Juerg Steffen, CEO, emphasized: «Alongside these, the US EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program remains one of the most secure and predictable routes to US residence, with the benefit of a clear statutory foundation.»
Urgency in EB-5 Timelines
The EB-5 program continues under the Reform and Integrity Act until 2027. But deadlines loom: grandfathering protections expire in September 2026, and minimum investment thresholds rise in January 2027.
Investors keen on stability are urged to act before these windows close.
Balancing Innovation and Stability
Dominic Volek, Group Head of Private Clients, explained: «These recent developments highlight both the new opportunities being created and the enduring role of EB-5 in the US immigration landscape.»
While many clients will explore Gold and Platinum Cards, EB-5 continues to provide «assurance, continuity, and protection» – the core values global families demand.
