Gujarat families flock to EB-5 visa route as H‑1B prospects dim

The Economic Times reports a noticeable surge in EB‑5 visa applications from families based in Gujarat as the annual H‑1B lottery becomes increasingly unpredictable. The EB‑5 program offers a pathway to U.S. permanent residency for foreign investors who commit a minimum of $1.8 million, or $900,000 in designated targeted employment areas, and create at least ten full‑time jobs.

Industry observers note that the heightened interest reflects broader concerns among Indian tech professionals and their dependents about the limited number of H‑1B slots and the lengthy processing times. By opting for the EB‑5 route, applicants aim to bypass the lottery system and secure a more stable immigration status for themselves and their families.

While the EB‑5 scheme demands a substantial financial commitment, many Gujarati entrepreneurs and salaried workers view it as a long‑term investment in education, health care and quality of life for their children in the United States. The trend underscores a shift in migration strategies, with investment‑based visas gaining traction as traditional employment‑based options face mounting constraints.