Archive · 4 Aug 2025
Indian Investors Turn to US EB-5 Visas Amidst Visa Hurdles
More Indians are seeking US residency through investment because it's becoming harder to get in through student or work visas.
This is particularly true for people from India.
The EB-5 visa, which requires a $800,000 investment, is becoming a popular way to get a green card.
The demand increased in 2024 due to changes in the US immigration rules.
The city of Mumbai is the main point for people applying to this visa.
The new Gold Card, which the US government has mentioned, is not yet launched, adding to the uncertainty and driving greater interest in EB-5.
Indian demand for EB-5 investment visas surged since April 2024.
Stricter controls on student and work visas under the Trump administration are a key factor.
EB-5 is seen as a more reliable pathway to permanent US residency amid backlogs.
Mumbai consulate processed most EB-5 filings from India.
India's EB-5 approval rate rose to 82% in FY2024.
- Who
- Indian citizens seeking US residency through investment visas.
- What
- Increase in EB-5 investment visa applications from India.
- When
- Surge since April 2024, with FY2024 seeing record filings.
- Where
- United States
- Why
- Due to stricter controls on other visa types and backlogs in the US immigration system.
- Visa Program
- EB-5 Investment Visa
- Increased Demand Starting
- April 2024
- FY2024 Visas Issued to Indians
- 1,428
- FY2023 Visas Issued to Indians
- 815
- Key Factor
- Stricter student and work visa controls
- Main Processing Location
- US consulate in Mumbai
- India's Approval Rate (FY2024)
- 82%
Sources
Amid curbs on H1B and student visas, more Indians are lining up for US investment visas
With H-1B curbs, more Indians turn to US investment visa route with record applicants this year
US Makes Green Card Process Tougher For Married Couples: What’s Changed?
Daily Briefing: A golden path to the US?
Green card crackdown on married couples: US warns approval won’t protect from deportation
