Rising Popularity of the EB-5 Program Among Indian Investors

The EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program has become a popular option for Indian investors, particularly families with children studying in the U.S. With opportunities for permanent residency and a smoother path to citizenship, the program has attracted high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) from India over the past few years. For many, it’s about more than just investment; it’s about securing a stable future for their children and family.

How EB-5 Benefits F-1 Visa Holders

A major draw for Indian families is how the EB-5 program can benefit their children, especially those on F-1 student visas. Thanks to the EB-5 Reform and Integrity Act of 2022, investors can now take advantage of concurrent filing, which lets them apply for adjustment of status (Form I-485) while their EB-5 petition is still under review. This provision is a huge win for families with children in the U.S. on temporary visas, as it allows these students to remain in the U.S. without fear of being forced to return to India after their F-1 visa expires.

For many parents, the uncertainty of relying on the H-1B visa lottery system is a major concern. The EB-5 program provides a clear and direct path to permanent residency, giving students greater flexibility to build careers in the U.S. without the pressures and limitations tied to other visa categories. By securing a green card through the EB-5 program, families can ensure their children have long-term stability and more freedom when it comes to job opportunities in the future.

A Surge in Popularity and Numbers

In recent years, the EB-5 program has seen a remarkable rise in applications from Indian investors. In FY2022, Indian nationals received 1,381 EB-5 visas, and this number continued to climb into FY2023. Globally, over 8,500 EB-5 visas were issued, reflecting a 23.6% increase over the previous year.

Much of this growth has been driven by increasing demand from India, with U.S. consulates—particularly in Mumbai—working to clear backlogs and process applications more efficiently.

On top of consular approvals, more than 1,500 EB-5 applicants in FY2023 were able to adjust their status within the U.S. This number speaks to the rising trend of Indian investors who are already in the U.S. on temporary visas, transitioning to permanent residency through the EB-5 program.

Set-Aside Visa Categories: A Strategic Move for Indian Investors

Another reason for the increased interest in EB-5 from Indian nationals is the introduction of set-aside visa categories. Under these provisions, 32% of the total EB-5 visas are reserved for investments in rural, high-unemployment, or infrastructure projects. Indian investors can capitalize on these reserved visa categories to bypass the long waiting times that often affect applicants from countries with high demand for visas, such as India.

Investing in projects located in rural or high-unemployment areas not only fast-tracks the application process but also helps Indian investors secure their visas without facing the bottlenecks that typically delay visa approvals in more popular urban projects.

Why Indian Investors are Choosing EB-5

There are several key reasons why Indian HNWIs are increasingly turning to the EB-5 program. First, India’s economic and political climate has been unpredictable, with changing tax laws and restrictions on outbound remittances. Many families are now looking to the U.S. as a place where they can find more stability and opportunities.

Second, the U.S. continues to be a top destination for quality education and career development, especially for Indian families. With an EB-5 visa, students can benefit from lower tuition fees at universities and gain access to better career prospects after graduation. Unlike students on F-1 visas who often face limitations in terms of work options, EB-5 visa holders have more freedom to explore different career paths without worrying about visa sponsorship.

What the Future Holds for Indian EB-5 Investors

Looking ahead, the EB-5 program is expected to maintain its strong appeal for Indian investors. As the backlog for EB-5 visas continues to clear, and with new visa allocations on the horizon, the U.S. is becoming an increasingly accessible option for Indian families seeking a long-term solution for education, career growth, and residency.

The reforms introduced by the EB-5 Reform and Integrity Act have made the program more investor-friendly, offering a streamlined process for those looking to secure U.S. residency. For Indian families, particularly those with children studying in the U.S., this program offers not just a financial investment but a way to secure their future in one of the world’s most stable economies.

Conclusion

In summary, the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program has emerged as a vital avenue for Indian investors, offering a reliable and efficient path to U.S. residency. The program’s benefits, especially for families with children on F-1 visas, cannot be overstated. By providing the opportunity to file for adjustment of status and avoid lengthy waits, EB-5 has become a lifeline for Indian investors looking to establish a long-term presence in the U.S. As the numbers show, demand for the program is on the rise, and with favorable trends in visa processing, this growth is likely to continue.

For many, the EB-5 program is not just about a green card—it’s about creating new opportunities for the next generation, providing a better quality of life, and securing a future in a country known for its stability and opportunity.