Latest news with #EB5
Business Standard
4 days ago
- Business
- Business Standard
Indian Families Rush to Secure US Green Cards Before $5 Million Hike Kicks In
VMPL Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], June 19: With the cost of a U.S. Green Card investment visa set to rise dramatically under proposed policy changes, Indian investors are moving quickly to file under the current EB5 programme, according to Deepesh Deshmukh, Director of DSquare Global Pvt. Ltd. and an expert in U.S. immigration solutions. The EB5 visa programme, which currently allows foreign nationals to gain U.S. permanent residency by investing $800,000 (approximately ₹7 crore) and creating ten American jobs, may soon become significantly more expensive. U.S. President Donald Trump is proposing to raise the investment threshold to $5 million, a change that would price out thousands of hopeful applicants, especially from India, where interest in U.S. migration remains high. "We are already seeing a surge in demand," said Deepesh during a recent podcast interview on Finance with Sharan - The One Percent Show. "Indian families who were earlier on the fence are now accelerating their applications. Many of them understand this could be their last affordable chance at securing a U.S. Green Card." A key point of discussion during the interview was the availability of collateral-free loans of up to $300,000, sourced from within the U.S. itself, to help applicants based in the U. S. meet the EB5 investment requirement. These loans come with a typical annual interest rate of 5.95 percent. Deepesh explained that many Indians, including those without the full investment amount, are taking this route to give their children a chance at a better future. "I've seen families with less than ₹1 crore in total savings take out loans to apply," he said. "For them, it's not just about moving to the U.S. It's about long-term security, education, and opportunities." The U.S. caps EB5 visas at 10,000 per year globally, with only 700 allocated per country. That restriction, combined with high demand from Indian applicants, could mean long wait times if investors miss the current window. "There's already a long waiting period just to get a U.S. tourist visa," said Deepesh. "Imagine the queue once people realise this $800,000 route may disappear. We are advising serious applicants to begin paperwork within the next three months if they want to qualify under the existing rules." When asked why affluent Indians are increasingly choosing the EB5 route, Deepesh pointed to quality of life as a primary driver. "It's not about abandoning India. It's about what the U.S. offers -- clean air, working infrastructure, and a transparent system. You pay taxes, and you see the results." He also clarified a common misconception: applying for a U.S. Green Card does not require Indians to give up their citizenship. "You retain your Indian passport until you decide to apply for U.S. citizenship, usually after five years," he said. One of the podcast's most notable revelations was that middle-income families are also using the EB5 programme, thanks to flexible financial arrangements. Deepesh mentioned cases where even families with partial funds have managed to secure the investment by using loan assistance from Banks, friends, and family. The EB5 visa grants permanent residency, unlike temporary options such as student visas or H1B work permits, which are limited by quotas and job status. "With a Green Card, your stay in the U.S. doesn't depend on a job offer or employer sponsorship," Deepesh said. "It's called permanent residency for a reason. It gives families the peace of mind they're looking for." Deepesh advised prospective applicants not to delay. "Even if you're not ready with the full amount, begin the legal process now. The rules could change anytime, and once the new threshold is in place, it's unlikely to be reversed."
Mint
4 days ago
- Business
- Mint
Indian Families Rush to Secure U.S. Green Cards Before $5 Million Hike Kicks In
Mumbai, India, June 19, 2025: With the cost of a U.S. Green Card investment visa set to rise dramatically under proposed policy changes, Indian investors are moving quickly to file under the current EB5 programme, according to Deepesh Deshmukh, Director of DSquare Global Pvt. Ltd. and an expert in U.S. immigration solutions. The EB5 visa programme, which currently allows foreign nationals to gain U.S. permanent residency by investing $800,000 (approximately ₹ 7 crore) and creating ten American jobs, may soon become significantly more expensive. U.S. President Donald Trump is proposing to raise the investment threshold to $5 million, a change that would price out thousands of hopeful applicants, especially from India, where interest in U.S. migration remains high. 'We are already seeing a surge in demand,' said Deepesh during a recent podcast interview on Finance with Sharan - The One Percent Show. 'Indian families who were earlier on the fence are now accelerating their applications. Many of them understand this could be their last affordable chance at securing a U.S. Green Card.' A key point of discussion during the interview was the availability of collateral-free loans of up to $300,000, sourced from within the U.S. itself, to help applicants based in the U. S. meet the EB5 investment requirement. These loans come with a typical annual interest rate of 5.95 percent. Deepesh explained that many Indians, including those without the full investment amount, are taking this route to give their children a chance at a better future. 'I've seen families with less than ₹ 1 crore in total savings take out loans to apply,' he said. 'For them, it's not just about moving to the U.S. It's about long-term security, education, and opportunities.' The U.S. caps EB5 visas at 10,000 per year globally, with only 700 allocated per country. That restriction, combined with high demand from Indian applicants, could mean long wait times if investors miss the current window. 'There's already a long waiting period just to get a U.S. tourist visa,' said Deepesh. 'Imagine the queue once people realise this $800,000 route may disappear. We are advising serious applicants to begin paperwork within the next three months if they want to qualify under the existing rules.' When asked why affluent Indians are increasingly choosing the EB5 route, Deepesh pointed to quality of life as a primary driver. 'It's not about abandoning India. It's about what the U.S. offers — clean air, working infrastructure, and a transparent system. You pay taxes, and you see the results.' He also clarified a common misconception: applying for a U.S. Green Card does not require Indians to give up their citizenship. 'You retain your Indian passport until you decide to apply for U.S. citizenship, usually after five years,' he said. One of the podcast's most notable revelations was that middle-income families are also using the EB5 programme, thanks to flexible financial arrangements. Deepesh mentioned cases where even families with partial funds have managed to secure the investment by using loan assistance from Banks, friends, and family. The EB5 visa grants permanent residency, unlike temporary options such as student visas or H1B work permits, which are limited by quotas and job status. 'With a Green Card, your stay in the U.S. doesn't depend on a job offer or employer sponsorship,' Deepesh said. 'It's called permanent residency for a reason. It gives families the peace of mind they're looking for.' Deepesh advised prospective applicants not to delay. 'Even if you're not ready with the full amount, begin the legal process now. The rules could change anytime, and once the new threshold is in place, it's unlikely to be reversed.'
The Hill
12-06-2025
- Business
- The Hill
Trump launches web site for ‘gold card'
The Trump administration on Thursday launched a website for those interested in a $5 million investor visa for the U.S. to sign up for early access to a newly created 'gold card.' 'Thousands have been calling and asking how they can sign up to ride a beautiful road in gaining access to the Greatest Country and Market anywhere in the world,' President Trump wrote in a statement on Truth Social. Trump in February pitched the gold card as a replacement of the EB5 visa program, upping the amount investors would need to spend and promising a path to citizenship. 'This is a gold card. We're going to be putting a price on that card of about $5 million and that's going to give you green card privileges, plus it's going to be a route to citizenship. And wealthy people will be coming into our country by buying this card,' Trump said at the time, adding that those who received the card will be 'paying a lot of taxes.' Gone, however, on the site launched by the administration are any references to the gold card, with the page instead saying, 'The Trump card is coming.' Those interested can enter an email to be notified 'the moment access opens.' As displayed on a mockup of the card, the president is positioned near a bald eagle with the Statue of Liberty in the background. It also includes his signature. The design, modeled after a U.S. dollar bill by displaying the $5 million price tag, draws parallels to cryptocurrency ventures pursued by Trump. The current EB5 program requires would-be investors to invest a little over $1 million and create at least 10 jobs and it also puts investors on a pathway to a green card and later citizenship. Trump has said he plans to end the EB5 program, but it was reauthorized by Congress in 2022.
Al Jazeera
12-06-2025
- Business
- Al Jazeera
Trump launches website for $5m ‘gold card' granting US residency
United States President Donald Trump has said his administration is accepting applications for his so-called 'Trump card', which promises applicants permanent residency for $5m. Trump made the announcement on Wednesday as he unveiled a new website for prospective applicants to register their interest. Visitors to are encouraged to submit their name, region, and email address, and specify whether they are applying as an indvidual or a business, in order 'to be notified the moment access opens.' 'Thousands have been calling and asking how they can sign up to ride a beautiful road in gaining access to the Greatest Country and Market anywhere in the World,' Trump said in a post on Truth Social. 'It's called THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. THE WAITING LIST IS NOW OPEN.' Trump first proposed the residency visa in February, saying his administration would offer wealthy applicants a 'gold card' that grants residency and work rights as well as a path to citizenship. 'They'll be wealthy, and they'll be successful, and they'll be spending a lot of money, and paying a lot of taxes and employing a lot of people,' Trump said at the time. In April, Trump displayed a sample visa – a gold-coloured card bearing his visage – to reporters on board Air Force One. Trump administration officials have suggested that the card will replace the EB-5 immigrant investor visa program, which grants permanent residency to immigrants who invest at least $1.05m in the US, or $800,000 in designated economically distressed areas. It is unclear what criteria applicants may have to meet apart from the $5m price tag, though the Trump administration has indicated there will be a vetting process. Under current immigration rules, lawful permanent residents can apply for naturalisation after five years provided they have a basic grasp of English and are deemed to be of 'good moral character.'
CNN
29-05-2025
- Business
- CNN
5 things to know for May 29: Tariffs, Bird flu, Harvard, Extreme weather, Scientific research
Want to immigrate to America, but don't want to wait years going through the legal process? Soon you'll be able to register for a 'gold card' visa. The new card will replace the government's EB-5 immigrant investor visa program, which grants green cards to immigrants who make a $1.8 million investment in the US or put $900,000 into economically distressed zones. 'Basically, everyone I meet who is not an American is going to want to buy this card if they have the fiscal capacity,' Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick said. And the new price tag? $5 million. Here's what else you need to know to Get Up to Speed and On with Your Day. Get '5 Things' in your inbox If your day doesn't start until you're up to speed on the latest headlines, then let us introduce you to your new favorite morning fix. Sign up here for the '5 Things' newsletter. President Donald Trump's economic agenda was thrown into chaos on Wednesday after a federal court ruled that he didn't have the authority to impose sweeping tariffs. The three-judge panel at the US Court of International Trade ruled in favor of a permanent injunction, one that would block the global tariffs the president announced on 'Liberation Day,' citing emergency economic powers. The ruling will also prevent Trump from enforcing the tariffs he placed on imports from Canada, China and Mexico earlier this year. It does not affect the 25% tariffs on autos, auto parts, steel or aluminum, which were subject to a different law than the one Trump cited for his broader trade actions. The administration has appealed the decision. The Department of Health and Human Services has terminated a $590 million contract with Moderna to develop a vaccine that would protect against bird flu. Since 2024, there have been at least 70 cases of avian influenza in humans and one death. The contract was canceled because the drugmaker was studying the effectiveness of an mRNA-based vaccine, which the Trump administration doesn't trust. Yet mRNA technology is currently used in Moderna's and Pfizer/BioNTech's Covid-19 vaccines. 'The attack on mRNA vaccines is beyond absurd. It was President Trump's Operation Warp Speed that gave us mRNA vaccines. These vaccines have been administered nearly 2 billion times to hundreds of millions of people around the world — making it one of the most widely used and widely studied vaccines in human history. They are safe and work well,' said Dr. Ashish Jha, the White House Covid-19 response coordinator during the Biden administration. 'If Bird Flu starts spreading from people to people, we will come to regret this as the day we decided to put the lives of the American people at grave risk.' Imagine spending years studying, writing essays, doing lab work, taking tests and completing all of the required courses necessary to earn a college degree — only to wonder whether you should attend your own graduation. That's the situation for many international students at Harvard University, who fear that an immigration-related action will be taken against them during today's commencement ceremony, a school official spelled out in a court filing. Some international students who were supposed to attend Harvard for future semesters are also reconsidering doing so. Others have had trouble getting student visas to the US at embassies abroad. Three senior government officials told CNN that the State Department is currently reviewing all Harvard-affiliated visa holders, not just students, which is a notable escalation in the Trump administration's feud with the school. Global temperatures are forecast to reach record or near-record levels during the next five years, according to a report from two of the world's top meteorological agencies. The World Meteorological Organization and the UK Met Office predict there is now a 70% chance that global warming will exceed 1.5 degrees Celsius, a rate that will increase the risks of more frequent and intense weather events, such as heat waves and heavy rainfall. 'We have just experienced the 10 warmest years on record. Unfortunately, this WMO report provides no sign of respite over the coming years, and this means that there will be a growing negative impact on our economies, our daily lives, our ecosystems and our planet,' WMO Deputy Secretary-General Ko Barrett said. Sixteen states filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration on Wednesday over the federal government's decision to gut research programs at the National Science Foundation. In April, hundreds of grants — mostly related to diversity, equity, inclusion, accessibility and misinformation research — were terminated. Since then, additional cuts have led to the cancellation of 1,753 grants worth nearly $1.4 billion across numerous areas of research. The states allege that eliminating such research will jeopardize the US's position as a global leader in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM), and that cutting funding related to diversity was illegal. 'This administration's attacks on basic science and essential efforts to ensure diversity in STEM will weaken our economy and our national security. Putting politics over science will only set our country back,' said New York Attorney General Letitia James. Did hackers discover Victoria's Secret?The lingerie company pulled down its website this week after experiencing a prolonged 'security incident.' The giants don't need your moneyA new campaign is encouraging visitors to the Giant's Causeway in Northern Ireland to stop wedging coins between the stones. What was on the megalodon's menu?The prehistoric predator was widely thought to subsist on large marine mammals, but a new study of fossilized teeth has found more variety in its diet. A mystery of cosmic proportionsAstronomers are trying to determine what kind of celestial object is emitting bright flashes of radio waves and X-rays that last for two minutes and repeat every 44 minutes. It would be a sin to miss thisResidents of the theater-less Mississippi town that inspired 'Sinners' will finally get to see the film. 7 millionThat's how many potential jobs the UN is predicting will vanish this year because of an economic slowdown triggered by President Trump's trade war. 'When I first heard the news, I wanted to curse Trump.' — Candy, a Chinese statistics student at the University of Michigan, who did not want to give her full name, after learning about the US decision to 'aggressively revoke visas for Chinese students.' Check your local forecast here>>> Um, we have a 'wildlife situation'Watch what happened when two pigeons apparently tried to stow away on a Delta Air Lines flight to Madison, Wisconsin.
