Washington, United States – Rap superstar Nicki Minaj has ignited fresh controversy after publicly displaying what she called a Trump “Gold Card” visa, triggering widespread debate over her citizenship status and political alignment in the United States.
The Trinidad-born artist shared an image of the gold-embossed card on social media, leaving fans and critics speculating about its meaning. The post quickly went viral, with many questioning why the global music icon appeared to be celebrating a visa programme linked directly to former President Donald Trump.
Reports suggest that the Trump Gold Card initiative, introduced in late 2025, offers wealthy foreign nationals a fast-tracked route to permanent residency and eventual citizenship in exchange for a significant financial contribution, reportedly reaching as high as $1 million along with additional processing fees. However, Minaj claimed her card was issued “free of charge,” further fueling confusion and criticism.
Adding to the uproar, Minaj recently appeared at the Treasury Department’s Trump Accounts Summit, where she stood alongside Trump and openly declared herself “probably the president’s number one fan.” The statement surprised many of her followers and intensified online backlash, with social media users debating her sudden political stance.
Minaj also revealed that she is currently finalising her US citizenship paperwork, saying the process is underway “as we speak.” Her remarks have raised questions among observers, as the singer has lived in the United States for decades, having moved there as a child, yet had not previously confirmed citizenship status publicly.
Critics argue that the episode highlights deeper inequalities in immigration policy, suggesting that celebrity influence and wealth may provide access to privileges unavailable to ordinary immigrants. Others see her actions as a personal choice, reflecting her political beliefs regardless of public reaction.
The controversy has sparked broader discussion about the Trump Gold Card programme itself, which has become a flashpoint in national debates over immigration reform, fairness, and the role of money in securing residency pathways.
As reactions continue to pour in, Nicki Minaj’s visa display has become more than a celebrity headline — it has reignited conversations about immigration policy, political loyalty, and how fame intersects with national identity in the United States.
This story has been reported by PakTribune. All rights reserved.