Second Chances: Why H-1B and L-1 Visa Holders Are Rethinking EB-5 in 2025

For many skilled Indian professionals, the H-1B and L-1 visas have traditionally been the main pathways to living and working in the United States. However, with tightened quotas, extended processing times, and increasing uncertainty, more visa holders are exploring alternative immigration options. Among these, the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program has emerged as a compelling second chance for long-term stability and permanent residency.

Understanding the EB-5 Program

The EB-5 program allows foreign nationals to obtain a U.S. green card by investing in a U.S.-based business that creates at least 10 full-time jobs for American workers.

Key benefits of EB-5 include:

●       Direct Path to Permanent Residency: Unlike H-1B or L-1, EB-5 leads directly to a green card for the investor and their immediate family.

●       Flexibility: EB-5 green card holders are not tied to a specific employer. They can start their own business or work for any company.

●       Family Inclusion: Spouses and children under 21 are included, offering holistic family security.

Why H-1B and L-1 Visa Holders Are Rethinking Their Options

1. Increasing H-1B Uncertainty

The H-1B visa lottery has grown increasingly competitive. Each year, hundreds of thousands of applicants compete for roughly 85,000 slots, leaving many skilled professionals without a viable option. For those already on H-1B visas, renewals and extensions also carry risk due to evolving policy and processing delays.

2. L-1 Visa Limitations

L-1 visas, designed for intra-company transfers, are temporary and employer-dependent. Visa holders must maintain employment with their sponsoring company, and any change can disrupt their status. This limited flexibility has led professionals to seek more stable immigration pathways.

3. Long-Term Family and Career Stability

EB-5 appeals to visa holders who want to settle in the U.S. permanently. It provides predictable timelines, family inclusion, and freedom to live anywhere, ensuring that children can attend U.S. schools uninterrupted and spouses can pursue careers or education freely.

4. Avoiding Retrogression and Delays

Indian EB-5 applicants may face backlogs due to per-country caps, but acting now can secure priority dates before further retrogression, ensuring smoother processing.

EB-5 Investment Options for Visa Holders

Regional Center Projects

Many professionals prefer Regional Centers for their pre-approved projects, which reduce administrative complexity and help meet job creation requirements.

Targeted Employment Areas (TEAs)

Investing in a TEA allows applicants to meet the EB-5 requirement with a lower minimum investment ($800,000 instead of $1.05 million), offering a cost-effective route for visa holders seeking permanent residency.

Diversified Investment Portfolios

Visa holders can choose from real estate, infrastructure, or other job-creating sectors, aligning their investment with personal risk tolerance and long-term goals.

Why Acting in 2025 Matters

●       Lock in Current Investment Thresholds: Current EB-5 rules are favorable compared to anticipated policy updates in 2026.

●       Priority Dates: Early applicants secure better positions in the processing queue, minimizing delays caused by retrogression or per-country caps.

●       Peace of Mind: Transitioning from a temporary visa to permanent residency reduces stress for families and provides long-term certainty.

Conclusion

For H-1B and L-1 visa holders in 2025, the EB-5 program offers a second chance at permanent U.S. residency, combining family security, career flexibility, and long-term stability.

For those exploring EB-5 opportunities, Makaan Regional Center provides pre-approved projects, expert guidance, and a streamlined investment process, making the journey to a green card smoother and more reliable.

Explore EB-5 with Makaan Regional Center today and secure your family’s future!!!