For many Indian nationals, the dream of living and working in the United States comes with a long wait. The U.S. Green Card remains one of the most sought-after immigration statuses, offering a pathway to permanent residency and eventually citizenship. However, for Indians, the journey can be daunting, especially when navigating traditional routes like family sponsorship or employment-based visas. So, how many years to get Green Card in USA for Indian citizens? The answer often spans decades, especially in oversubscribed categories. But there’s a faster and more strategic route gaining momentum—the EB5 Visa.
This blog will explain the typical waiting periods Indians face for Green Cards, introduce the benefits and process of the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program, and show how this route can significantly reduce the wait while opening long-term opportunities in the U.S.
The Green Card Waiting Game for Indian Nationals
The U.S. issues a limited number of Green Cards annually under various categories: family-based, employment-based, and special immigrant categories. For countries with high demand like India, annual per-country limits create significant backlogs.
Employment-Based Green Card Delays
Indian professionals applying under EB-2 or EB-3 categories (for advanced degree holders or skilled workers) can expect to wait 15 to 20+ years for their Green Cards. This backlog stems from:
- Annual caps on Green Cards per country (7% rule).
- High volume of applications from India
- Slow processing times and retrogression of priority dates.
Family-Based Green Cards
Family-based applicants, particularly siblings and adult children of U.S. citizens, also face long queues. These timelines can stretch 20 years or more due to similar quota restrictions.
The EB5 Green Card: A Strategic Alternative
For high-net-worth Indian individuals and families, the EB5 Green Card route offers a faster, more direct path to U.S. residency.
What is the EB5 Visa?
The EB5 Visa is an immigrant investor program launched by the U.S. government to boost the economy through job creation and foreign investment. It allows eligible investors to obtain a Green Card by investing in a qualifying U.S. project.
Key Benefits of the EB5 Visa for Indian Applicants
Faster Processing: Compared to the decades-long backlog of other categories, the EB5 visa for Indian applicants typically takes 2 to 3 years to secure conditional permanent residency. This wait period goes down to 1-2 years if the investment is made in fast track projects
No Sponsorship Required: No employer or family member needs to sponsor the applicant.
Freedom to Live Anywhere: EB5 investors can live, work, and study anywhere in the U.S., unlike some employment-based visas tied to a job location.
Inclusion of Family: Spouse and unmarried children under 21 automatically qualify for the same benefits.
How Does the US EB 5 Visa Work?
To qualify for a US EB 5 visa, applicants must:
1. Invest a Minimum of $800,000 in a Targeted Employment Area (TEA) project or $1.05 million in a standard project.
2. Create or Preserve at Least 10 Jobs for U.S. workers.
3. Prove Lawful Source of Funds, including documentation of business earnings, inheritance, gifts, or asset sales.
File a Form I-526 (initial petition), followed by conditional residency (Form I-485 or DS-260), and finally a Form I-829 to remove conditions after two years.
Why EB5 Visa is Becoming Popular in India
Over the last decade, EB5 visa for Indian investors has become increasingly attractive due to:
- Uncertainty around H1B and F1 visa programs.
- Stability and educational benefits for children.
- Business and lifestyle opportunities in the U.S.
- Direct pathway to permanent residency.
Recent policy updates and streamlined processing have made EB5 even more appealing. The introduction of the EB-5 Reform and Integrity Act of 2022 added safeguards and clarified regulations, boosting investor confidence.
Key Considerations Before Applying for EB5 Visa
While the EB5 path offers many advantages, it’s important to understand the complexity of the process. Here are a few points to keep in mind:
- Choose a reliable EB5 Regional Center or direct project with a proven track record.
- Ensure your funds are clean, legal, and well-documented.
- Work with experienced professionals to avoid delays and denials.
- Be prepared for due diligence, both from your side and the U.S. immigration authorities.
Real Timelines: EB5 vs. Traditional Green Card Routes
| Visa Type | Average Wait Time for Indian Applicants |
| EB-2/EB-3 | 15–20+ years |
| Family-Based (Adult Siblings) | 20–25 years |
| EB5 Visa | 2–3 years for conditional Green Card / 1-2years under fast track projects |
Clearly, EB5 green card processing is significantly quicker than traditional methods, making it a smart choice for investors who wish to bypass the decades-long queues.
Final Thoughts: A Smoother Path to the American Dream
The answer to how many years to get green card in USA for Indian applicants varies depending on the route—but it’s undeniable that the EB5 route offers a faster, more secure alternative. If you have the required investment capacity, this visa can help you and your family establish a future in the U.S. with far fewer roadblocks. For those seeking professional guidance through the EB-5 journey, our team at Acquest Advisors brings trusted expertise and end-to-end support to help Indian investors achieve U.S. residency with confidence.
Acquest Advisors: Your Partner in EB5 Visa Success
Navigating the EB5 journey can be complex, but with the right guidance, it becomes manageable and rewarding. Acquest Advisors is a leading immigration consultancy specializing in business immigration and residency-by-investment programs, including the EB5 visa for Indian applicants. From source of funds planning to investment selection, documentation, and final filing, their expert team ensures a seamless transition to your American dream. With a network of top professional’s attorneys, developers, fund managers, and more, Acquest Advisors helps you move forward with clarity and confidence.
FAQs
1. What is the minimum investment required for the EB5 Visa?
The current minimum is $800,000 for projects in Targeted Employment Areas and $1.05 million for others.
2. How long does it take to get a Green Card through EB5?
Most Indian investors can receive a conditional Green Card within 2 to 3 years, followed by permanent residency after fulfilling job creation criteria.
3. Can I include my family in the EB5 application?
Yes, your spouse and unmarried children under 21 are eligible for Green Cards under the same application.
4. What are the risks involved in EB5 investment?
Like any investment, there are financial risks. Choosing reliable projects and experienced consultants is key to minimizing risks and ensuring compliance.
5. Is the EB5 visa permanent residency or temporary?
Initially, the EB5 visa grants conditional permanent residency for two years. Once job creation is proven, you can apply for a permanent Green Card.