As long visa backlogs and uncertainty continue to frustrate many Indian families pursuing permanent residency in the U.S., the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program is emerging as a compelling alternative. With over a million people stuck in the EB-2 and EB-3 green card queues, many Indian parents are seeking a more direct, reliable path to permanent residency for themselves and their children—and EB-5 is increasingly seen as that solution.
In this first installment of our five-part series, we explore what the EB-5 program is, why interest is surging among Indian families, and how it compares to traditional visa routes like the H-1B.
What Is EB-5?
At its core, the EB-5 program is a U.S. job creation initiative. Established by Congress in the 1990s, EB-5 allows foreign nationals to invest in the U.S. economy and, in return, obtain a green card if the investment creates at least 10 full-time jobs for American workers. The minimum qualifying investment is $800,000 when the funds are directed to a government-designated Targeted Employment Area (TEA)—which includes rural or high-unemployment zones.
While the original version of the EB-5 program allowed entrepreneurs to start businesses directly, the vast majority of investors today use the Regional Center model. Regional centers like CanAm pool investor funds into large-scale commercial projects, helping meet job creation requirements and easing the investment process for families.
Why Are Indian Families Turning to EB-5?
For many Indian families, EB-5 isn’t just an investment—it’s a strategic immigration decision.
“Many of our investors are families on H-1B visas who have been stuck in the EB-2 or EB-3 backlog for years,” explained Nick Buonagurio of CanAm Enterprises in a recent discussion with Anand Patinge of EduFund. “They have no clear guideline or time horizon of when they’re realistically going to get a permanent green card.”
Unlike the employment-based visa categories, the EB-5 path offers:
- Freedom from employer sponsorship: With EB-5, you’re not tied to a single employer or specific job function.
- Greater career flexibility: You can work for any employer—or not at all—without jeopardizing your immigration status.
- A backup plan for families: EB-5 provides a safety net for those concerned about job loss or visa expiration under H-1B or F-1 pathways.
Comparing EB-5 to the H-1B Path
The traditional path many Indian families follow—F-1 to OPT to H-1B and then eventually to EB-2 or EB-3—is increasingly uncertain. H-1B visas are limited by an annual lottery system, and even those who secure one face long green card wait times.
Moreover, H-1B status is employer-dependent. If the job is terminated, the visa is at risk.
“EB-5 may not guarantee job security, but it gives you the freedom to apply for any job you want,” said Nick. “You’re no longer locked into a specific role, employer, or location. That’s huge for many families.”
A Lifeline for U.S.-Based Students
For Indian students already studying in the U.S., EB-5 opens up new possibilities. With recent reforms allowing for concurrent adjustment of status, eligible students can file for a green card while staying on their current visa—often gaining work and travel authorization in just a few months.
This is especially attractive for families seeking to secure their child’s future in the U.S. without relying on the H-1B lottery or navigating post-graduation job uncertainty.
“If you’re a student on an F-1 visa, within four months of applying through EB-5, you could have the ability to work at any job or internship—no employer sponsorship needed. That’s a game-changer.”
Long-Term Vision, Immediate Benefits
While the full EB-5 process—from investment to permanent green card—typically takes 6–7 years, key benefits can come much sooner. With concurrent filing, applicants can receive temporary work and travel documents within months of applying. For families thinking long-term, the ability to set their children up for a secure, independent life in the U.S. is well worth the journey.
Is EB-5 Right for Your Family?
EB-5 is a significant financial and emotional commitment. It’s not just about the green card—it’s about long-term stability, educational opportunity, and career freedom. For Indian parents weighing their options, EB-5 offers a pathway that is both direct and strategic.
Up Next in the Series:
In the next post, we’ll explore the full investment breakdown—what Indian families need to know about EB-5 costs, risks, and how to choose the right regional center partner.
