As the United States tightens scrutiny over student visas, a growing number of Indian students are turning to the EB-5 visa program for a more secure path to permanent residency. The EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program offers a US Green Card to foreign nationals who invest at least $800,000 (approximately Rs 7 crore) in a qualified American business or government-approved regional center. This investment must also create or preserve at least 10 full-time jobs for US workers.
Immigration lawyers report a sharp uptick in EB-5 applications, noting a 100% increase in interest from F-1 student visa holders compared to previous years, when most applicants were H-1B holders.
Student visa crackdown fuels shift
This surge in EB-5 interest comes amid intensified oversight and restrictions on F-1 student visas. Recent policies under the second term of Donald Trump’s presidency have made it harder for international students to stay and work in the US after graduation. The F-1 visa allows students to study full-time in American institutions but offers only limited options for employment during and after their studies.
With these hurdles, many Indian students are now evaluating long-term options from the very beginning of their educational journey, including permanent residency pathways like EB-5.
Visa cap could lead to scramble
Although the EB-5 visa offers a relatively stable path to a Green Card, it comes with its own constraints. Each country has a cap of about 700 EB-5 visas per year, including dependents. Given that there are more than 86,000 Indian students currently studying in the US as of 2024, competition for this limited quota is expected to intensify.
Legal experts and consultants caution that if demand continues to rise at the current pace, wait times could increase significantly, defeating the purpose for some applicants seeking quick residency solutions.
US remains top choice despite challenges
Despite the complexities, the United States remains the top global destination for higher education among Indian students. The EB-5 program is emerging as a premium option for those who can afford it—offering long-term residency, fewer work restrictions, and a more straightforward path to citizenship.