Living in America remains a cherished dream for many individuals across the world. No wonder every year several thousands apply to immigrate and move to US to stay permanently in the United States. There are several types of immigrant visas for those coming to live permanently in the United States.

EB-1 and EB-2, both largely employer-sponsored, are two such popular ways to immigrate to the US and get eligible for green cards subsequently. In addition, the EB-5 visa program allows one to invest a specific amount and generate employment in the US to be eligible for a US green Card.

However, the waiting period to get a green card after holding EB-1 or EB-2 and EB-5 visas remains the biggest concern for foreigners looking to settle in America. “The EB-5 visa program emerges as a strategic lifeline amidst unprecedented delays in the EB-2 and EB-3 visa categories. The visa backlog, particularly severe for Indians, paints a stark picture—1.1 million Indians await green cards, facing potential wait times of up to 128 years for an EB-2 visa and 41 years for an EB-3 visa,” says Carel van der Merwe, Sales Director at EB-5 Coast To Coast.

U.S. immigration law provides foreigners with a variety of ways to become lawful permanent residents and get a Green Card through employment in the United States. These employment-based (EB) preference immigrant categories include:

First preference (EB-1): Priority Workers – Foreigners with extraordinary ability in the sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics; Outstanding professors and researchers; or Certain multinational managers and executives.

Second preference (EB-2): Foreigners who are members of the professions holding advanced degrees or who have exceptional ability (including requests for national interest waivers).

Third preference (EB-3): Skilled workers, professionals, or other workers.

Those holding visas in the EB-1, EB-2, and EB-3 categories while in the United States have to apply for what is called ‘adjustment of status’ for lawful permanent resident status in the United States and to become eligible for the US Green Card.

Although acquiring a green card takes time, some alternatives lead to a much shorter road to becoming a permanent resident of the United States. The EB-5 Visa Program is a popular and expedited option for obtaining a green card. The EB-5 program is a US immigration policy that provides a road to lawful permanent citizenship (green card) for foreign investors willing to invest in the country’s economy and create jobs for US workers.

Pete Calabrese, CEO at CanAm Investor Services, a FINRA-registered broker-dealer affiliated with CanAm Enterprises says, “EB-5 remains the fastest route to permanent residency or citizenship in the United States, as processing times remain extensive for multiple other visa classes. This has been reinforced by the improved processing times, the potential for priority processing, and the ability for some to concurrently file their adjustment of status allowed by the Reform and Integrity Act.”

Many people around the world wish to obtain a green card in the United States. A green card grants permanent residency in the United States, allowing individuals to live and work in the country for the rest of their lives. Obtaining a green card provides several prospects for education, work, and a higher standard of living. The EB-5 Visa Program is a popular and faster route to obtaining a green card.

“We have observed a significant surge in interest from Indian applicants on EB-2/EB-3 visas seeking a more efficient route to U.S. permanent residency. Despite the $800,000 investment threshold, the EB-5 program offers uncomplicated requirements, granting the liberty to reside, work, and study anywhere in the United States.

Immediate visa availability offers respite from prolonged waits for Indian EB-2 or EB-3 applicants, making the EB-5 program a beacon of hope in the evolving landscape of U.S. Immigration, adds Van der Merwe.