For many around the world, the American Dream remains a powerful aspiration. Yet, the journey to achieving it, particularly through immigration, is far from straightforward. To help demystify the process, we sat down with US immigration expert Devesh Deshmukh to discuss current trends, opportunities, and critical advice for those considering a move to the United States.
The Golden Opportunity: EB-5 Investment Visa
The EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program, popularly known as the “Golden Card,” is currently one of the fastest and most reliable routes to a U.S. green card. This program allows foreign nationals to invest $800,000 in a qualifying American business that creates 10 full-time jobs, in exchange for permanent residency.
However, under recent discussions during former President Trump’s administration, changes may be coming. A proposed rule could increase the minimum investment to $5 million, prompting a rush of applicants eager to secure their place before the rules tighten.
Note: The program only allows 10,000 green cards per year, with a cap of 700 per country, so timing is critical.
Why Wealthy Indians Are Choosing the EB-5 Route
Devesh highlighted that lifestyle, safety, and long-term security are the primary drivers for affluent Indian families pursuing green cards. Unlike other visa categories tied to employment or education, a green card allows you to:
- Live and work freely across the U.S.
- Access high-quality education for your children
- Plan your future without worrying about visa renewals or job loss
Green Card vs. H1B: A Reality Check
Many Indian professionals start their U.S. journey through the H1B visa, which allows temporary work status. However, Devesh warns that this path often leads to frustration:
- The wait time for a green card under the EB2 category can stretch up to 50 years due to the high volume of Indian applicants.
- Losing your job means your visa status is at risk, often with just 60 days to find a new sponsor.
In contrast, a green card offers true independence, allowing you to work for any employer—or none at all.
A Clever Hack: The Collateral-Free EB-5 Loan Strategy
What if you don’t have $800,000 readily available?
Devesh explains a creative solution: collateral-free loans. Here’s how it works:
- Secure a loan of up to $400,000 at approximately 5% annual interest
- Combine it with your own funds to meet the EB-5 requirement
- Invest in a qualified real estate project
- After five years, the full amount is returned by the developer
- Use the return to repay the loan
This strategy reduces financial strain and makes the EB-5 program more accessible to aspiring immigrants.
Fast-Track Green Card: The Kids’ Route
Another underutilized path is through your children. If your child is born in the US, they automatically become a US citizen. Once they reach 21 years of age, they can sponsor you for a green card—a far faster and simpler process than navigating employer-based sponsorships.
Avoid These Common Pitfalls
Devesh shared a word of caution for international students and workers:
“Working off-campus for cash without proper authorization is one of the biggest mistakes students make. It’s illegal and could lead to visa cancellation or even deportation.”
Always stay within your visa guidelines to protect your future immigration goals.
Final Advice: Act Before the Rules Change
The most important message Devesh shared? Act now.
“The window to secure an EB-5 green card at $800,000 may be closing. Don’t wait until the investment limit increases. Start your application today.”
Interested in US Immigration Opportunities?
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