The United States of America has long been a land of opportunity that attracts immigrants from all over the world. Among those who want to turn that dream into reality are many citizens of India, attracted by the prospect of excellent education, career opportunities and a higher standard of living.
Moving to the US requires careful planning, compliance with immigration laws, and an understanding of the available pathways. In this article, we explore some common routes for Indian nationals to move to the US and offer guidance for navigating the process.
We can broadly divide these immigration channels into two: through the Diversity Visa Lottery and other US visa channels. Learn more about each of them in this article.
Employment-based immigration
One of the primary ways for Indian citizens to move to the US is through employment-based immigration. This path involves getting a job offer from a US company willing to sponsor a person for a work visa.
There are several employment-based visa categories, including the H-1B visa for skilled workers in special occupations, the L-1 visa for internal transferees, and the O-1 visa for individuals with exceptional ability or accomplishments in their field.
The requirements usually relate to the employment itself — employment contracts, qualification documents and other related documents — and the prospective immigrant’s personal documents, such as passport photos and visa applications. Researching the specific requirements and qualifications for each visa category is key, as well as close cooperation with the employer to collect the necessary documentation.
Family immigration
Another option for Indian nationals to move to the US is through family immigration. If you have immediate family members who are US citizens or lawful permanent residents, they may be able to sponsor you for an immigrant visa. Immediate relatives, including spouses, parents and unmarried children under the age of 21, are given priority in the family-based immigration system.
Other family members, such as siblings or adult married children, fall into privileged categories with special restrictions and longer waiting periods. The sponsor must demonstrate the ability to financially support the immigrant, and the process usually involves multiple steps and extensive documentation, one of the goals of which is to prove the future migrant’s ties to the sponsor.
Diversity Visa Lottery
Eligible Indian citizens can also participate in the Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery, commonly known as the Green Card Lottery. Each year, the US government awards a certain number of immigrant visas to countries with historically low rates of immigration to the United States.
To apply for the Diversity Visa (DV) lottery, individuals must meet two general requirements: they must be a native of an eligible country as determined by the U.S. government and must have at least a high school education or its equivalent or two years of recent work experience five years in an occupation requiring at least two years of training or experience.
Unfortunately, people born in India are not eligible. But if your spouse or parents were born abroad, you can claim based on their country of birth. If your parents were legal residents of a country outside India at the time of your birth, you are still eligible.
Applicants for the DV Lottery must submit an application form with details of their identity, including a relevant photograph. Additional documents such as birth certificates, education certificates and marriage certificates may be requested for selected winners during the visa application process.
Student programs and programs for exchange visitors
For Indian nationals who wish to pursue higher education in the United States, exchange student and visitor programs offer the opportunity to study and potentially work there. Indian students can apply to US universities and colleges, obtain the required student visa (F-1 or M-1) and begin their academic journey.
It is important to research and choose an accredited institution, meet admission requirements and demonstrate financial means to support your own educational and living expenses. Upon graduation, graduates may have the option of employment in the United States through optional practical training programs.
Requirements for applying for such visas include proof that you are enrolled in study or exchange programs and that you have the means to support yourself.
Investment-based immigration
For individuals with significant financial resources, the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program provides the opportunity to relocate to the US. By making a qualifying investment, typically at least $1.8 million (or $900,000 in targeted employment areas), in a new commercial enterprise that creates jobs for American workers, citizens of India can apply for an EB-5 visa.
This program offers a direct path to permanent residency for the investor, his spouse and their unmarried children under the age of 21. However, it is important to seek professional guidance and carefully evaluate the financial and legal aspects of the investment before proceeding.
Moving to the United States as an Indian citizen is a significant decision that requires thorough planning and compliance with immigration laws. Whether through employment-based immigration, family sponsorship, DV lottery, student programs, or investment-based immigration, there are many avenues available to achieve the American dream.
It is essential to conduct extensive research, consult with immigration experts when necessary, and carefully monitor application processes and requirements. Although the journey can be challenging, with dedication, perseverance and careful planning, many Indian citizens have successfully achieved their dreams of living and thriving in the United States.
Categories: Trends
Source: HIS Education