Indian migration to the United States dates back to the early 1900s, with waves of skilled professionals and families arriving over the decades. A large wave of Indian immigrants arrived in the 1960s following the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965, which removed national-origin quotas and opened doors for skilled professionals from India.

Today, Indians represent the second-largest immigrant group in the United States after Mexicans. As of 2023, approximately 4.8 million Indian immigrants reside in the USA. This number has grown steadily over the years, with a notable increase of about 70% since 2010.

Much of this growth is attributed to employment-based and family-sponsored migration, as well as the pursuit of better educational and professional opportunities. Among the various immigration pathways, the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program has emerged as a compelling option for those seeking a faster and more flexible route to U.S. permanent residency.

This article explores the EB-5 program, highlighting its benefits, unique features, and key considerations compared to other visa options.

Why the USA is a Popular Destination for Indians

The United States continues to be a top choice for Indian migrants due to several compelling factors. Its robust job market, particularly in tech and STEM fields, offers vast economic opportunities where many Indian professionals thrive.

The appeal of American universities, renowned globally for their academic excellence, attracts a significant number of Indian students seeking quality education. For entrepreneurs, the USA’s startup ecosystem and strong support for innovation make it an ideal destination to launch and grow businesses.

Additionally, the high standard of living and diverse cultural experiences further enhance its appeal. Established Indian-American communities also play a vital role by providing support networks that help new immigrants adapt and flourish.

Popular Visas for Indians in the USA

Indian nationals have several visa options for migrating to the USA. Some of the most popular ones include:

1. H-1B Visa: For skilled workers in specialty occupations. This is a nonimmigrant visa.
2. L-1 Visa: For intracompany transferees. This is a nonimmigrant visa.
3. F-1 Visa: For international students. This is a nonimmigrant visa.
4. EB-1, EB-2 and EB-3 Visas: For professionals with advanced degrees or exceptional ability. These are immigrant visas.
5. EB-5 Visa: For investors willing to make an investment in a U.S. business. This is an immigrant visa.

The EB-5 Visa: A Promising Option for Indian Investors

The EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program has gained popularity among Indian investors seeking a faster path to U.S. permanent residency. This program requires a minimum investment of $800,000 in a qualifying U.S. business that creates at least 10 full-time jobs for American workers.

Key benefits of the EB-5 visa for Indian investors include:

• Direct path to permanent residency (Green Card).
• Inclusion of spouse and unmarried children under 21.
• Freedom to live and work anywhere in the USA.
• Access to quality education and healthcare.
• No language or education requirements.

When comparing the EB-5 visa to other options, Indian applicants should weigh several key considerations. EB-5 visas often offer shorter processing times compared to employment-based options like EB-2/EB-3 visas. They also provide greater job flexibility, as investors are not tied to a specific employer, unlike those on H-1B visas. Additionally, the EB-5 program does not require specific educational qualifications or work experience, setting it apart from other visas.

Steps to Migrate from India to the USA

1. Choose the Right Visa: Assess your qualifications, goals, and financial situation to select the most suitable visa category.
2. Prepare Documentation: Gather all required documents, including passports, educational certificates, financial records, and any additional documentation specific to your chosen visa.
3. File the Petition: Submit the appropriate visa petition (e.g., Form I-526E for EB-5 investors) to United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
4. Complete the Immigrant Visa Process: If applying from outside the U.S., proceed with consular processing by submitting required forms to the National Visa Center (NVC) and attending an interview at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate in India. If already in the U.S. on a nonimmigrant visa, you can file for adjustment of status at the previous stage due to the concurrent filing opportunity.
5. Enter the USA: If you are not adjusting status through concurrent filing, upon visa approval, finalize travel arrangements and move to the United States.
6. Obtain Permanent Residency: Once in the U.S., complete any remaining steps, such as receiving your Green Card, to secure lawful permanent residency.

Green Card Backlogs for Indian Nationals

Indian nationals face some of the longest wait times for U.S. Green Cards across multiple categories due to per-country limits and high demand. Employment-based categories, including EB-2 and EB-3, often have backlogs spanning decades, significantly delaying the immigration process for Indian applicants.

The EB-5 category, while offering a faster pathway to permanent residency compared to other employment-based visas, is also experiencing significant backlogs for Indian nationals in the unreserved category.

However, rural EB-5 investments present a promising alternative for Indian nationals. The rural set-aside category is currently prioritized, with faster processing times and reduced risk of backlog compared to other EB-5 visa types. Most rural filings are processed within 10 to 12 months, making rural investments an excellent choice for Indian applicants seeking a more efficient route to U.S. permanent residency.

Opportunities for Indian Migrants in the USA

Indian nationals in the U.S. can look forward to career advancement in cutting-edge industries, access to world-class education for their children, and potential pathways to entrepreneurship and innovation. These opportunities, combined with the diverse cultural experiences and the possibility of obtaining U.S. citizenship, make the United States an attractive destination for Indians.

Beyond individual success stories, Indian immigrants have profoundly shaped various fields, including technology, medicine, academia, and business. According to the Migration Policy Institute’s 2024 report, Indian immigrants demonstrate exceptional levels of education and income compared to both U.S.-born and other immigrant populations. With the majority holding a bachelor’s degree or higher and median incomes that more than double those of other groups, Indian immigrants have become a cornerstone of innovation and economic growth in the United States.

For those considering the EB-5 program, the combination of opportunity and a strong support network creates a promising foundation for a new chapter in life. With the right resources and guidance, Indian migrants can successfully build their futures and pursue their dreams in the United States.

To explore how the EB-5 program can simplify your path to U.S. permanent residency, schedule a free consultation with EB5AN for expert guidance every step of the way.