With US student visa policies tightening, many Indian students are turning to the EB-5 visa for a more secure path to residency. This investor visa requires an $800,000 commitment, offering a direct route to a Green Card.
In recent months, there’s been a surge — over 100% — in EB-5 applications from Indian students. This shift comes amid mounting anxieties like visa appointment delays, increased scrutiny at borders, and technical glitches in student records.
Families are responding by investing in the EB-5 route to safeguard their children's future in the US.
Earlier, it was mostly professionals on H-1B visas applying for EB-5. Now, students on F-1 visas are leading the uptick, especially those in high-demand fields like technology, finance, and biotech.
The idea of students being caught in administrative or political crossfire is driving this trend.
Faster processing times for EB-5 applications, now as quick as three months, are also making the option more attractive. Unlike the F-1, the EB-5 offers greater stability and legal rights.
Immigration consultants say students are now advised to limit foreign travel and stay within the US while their status is adjusted.
For many, the EB-5 isn’t just a visa — it’s peace of mind.
Recent incidents involving international students at Harvard have triggered anxiety across other universities as well.
With Trump’s unpredictable policy shifts, many students feel increasingly uncertain about their future in the US.
Those who can afford the Rs 7 crore (around $800,000) investment required for the EB-5 visa are seriously considering it as a safer, more stable option. However, the challenge lies in the limited quota — only 700 EB-5 visas are allocated to Indian nationals each year.
With growing competition, securing one depends not just on intent and means, but also on timing and luck.