Global Entry tied to the $5 million “Gold Card” Program?

It might be hard to believe, but Wired magazine reports:

“A reference to the Trump Card Visa has also been added in the live application form for Global Entry, a program run by US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) that allows preapproved US citizens, green card holders, and travelers from certain countries to enter the US through a fast lane, saving them time at the airport.”

Interestingly, USCIS already has an authorized investor program. The EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program, including the Regional Center Program, was reauthorized by Congress under the EB-5 Reform and Integrity Act of 2022, valid until September 30, 2027. Only Congress can change an existing statute. For more details, check out this blog from Mona Shah, Esq.

So, how does this affect the Global Entry program? Global Entry, managed by CBP, is a traveler’s perk that is not governed by government statutes. One frequent complaint about the Trusted Traveler program is the long application processing times, often leading applicants to seek CBP appointments in other jurisdictions or states. The administration could fast-track membership for those planning to invest in the Gold Card Program.

Is it binding to indicate you want to invest in the Gold Card Program on a Global Entry application? Who knows? The Gold Card investment program doesn't even exist. Could CBP revoke a Global Entry membership if the applicant later changes his or her mind about investing? CBP could certainly do that, as it is a travel perk that is not governed by statutes.