A new investment visa program, commonly referred to as the “Gold Card,” is poised to reshape the landscape for high-net-worth individuals seeking U.S. residency. In late February 2025, President Trump mentioned that he is planning to institute this “Gold Card” policy. This initiative, which requires a $5 million investment to get permanent US residency, presents a potential opportunity for more investors to establish residency in Puerto Rico and qualify for Act 60 tax benefits.
Key Features of the Gold Card Visa
- $5 Million Investment Requirement – Unlike the existing EB-5 program, which requires $900,000 to $1.8 million in investments tied to job creation, the Gold Card offers a straightforward route to permanent residency with a single lump-sum payment to the U.S. government.
- Pathway to Citizenship – Gold Card holders will have a pathway to full U.S. citizenship, potentially making it an attractive option for global investors looking for long-term stability.
- No Overseas Taxation – Unlike other visa holders and U.S. residents, Gold Card recipients may be exempt from U.S. taxes on overseas income, a crucial benefit for international investors.
How This Relates to Act 60
Puerto Rico’s Act 60 tax incentive program has been a major draw for investors seeking significant tax advantages while maintaining U.S. residency. The Gold Card visa could potentially create a new pathway for individuals who want to relocate to Puerto Rico and qualify for Act 60 benefits.
1. A Potential New Gateway for Act 60 Residency
If structured correctly, the Gold Card visa could provide a streamlined path for high-net-worth individuals to move to Puerto Rico, establish residency, and take advantage of Act 60’s favorable tax treatment. This could bring a new wave of investors, entrepreneurs, and business owners to the island, further strengthening its economy.
2. Increased Global Interest in Puerto Rico
With the Gold Card offering a simplified residency process, Puerto Rico could see an influx of investors who were previously deterred by U.S. immigration complexities. This could position the island as an even more attractive destination for those seeking both tax incentives and a favorable business environment.
3. Uncertain Policy Interactions
There are still many unknowns about how the Gold Card visa will interact with Act 60 residency requirements. However, if Gold Card holders are able to establish bona fide residency in Puerto Rico, they may be eligible for the same tax benefits that have attracted many entrepreneurs and investors to the island.
What This Means for the Future of Act 60
If the Gold Card visa aligns with Act 60 residency requirements, it could serve as a powerful tool for attracting more high-net-worth individuals to Puerto Rico. This could lead to increased investment in the local economy, further solidifying Puerto Rico’s status as a premier tax-friendly jurisdiction.
While there are still unanswered questions about the specifics of the Gold Card visa, its introduction could present a new opportunity for Act 60 growth. Those interested in leveraging this potential pathway should stay informed as more details emerge and consult with tax and legal experts to understand how the program might fit into their overall financial strategy.