U.S. immigration has been a frequent topic in the news this year. Recently, changes to the H1-B visa system have caused confusion. President Trump has introduced a new $100,000 fee per H1-B visa holder, to be paid by the employer, applicable only to applications made after September 21, 2025. This fee is a one-time charge and is expected to further discourage U.S. employers from hiring international talent unless absolutely necessary.
Additional changes to U.S. immigration policy have been announced, affecting Indian citizens who must now apply for U.S. visas from India or their country of residence. This new rule will further complicate U.S. entry for Indians, who, along with Chinese nationals, already face significant visa backlogs. Moreover, concerns about ICE and border uncertainties have heightened worries for those on temporary visas and travelers to and from the U.S.
President Trump has also indicated plans to replace the EB-5 Program with a donation-based “Gold Card” Program requiring $1 million to $5 million. This new program is not yet in effect, and the existing EB-5 Program remains unchanged.
The U.S. EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program has been a favored route to permanent residency for over a decade. Initiated in 1990, it allows foreign investors to contribute $800,000 for a green card and eventual citizenship, often within a year.
Many GCC families choose the EB-5 Program for secondary residency or passports, but primarily to provide their children with better U.S. educational opportunities. Green card holders, unlike international students, bypass many restrictions, can pursue internships and jobs without an H1-B visa, and benefit from lower tuition rates and government loans.
The EB-5 Program’s major advantage is the immediate eligibility for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), which permits unrestricted employment in the U.S. This flexibility avoids the uncertainties of the H1-B visa system, benefiting students and professionals from the MENA region.
Amid ongoing changes, questions linger about U.S. immigration and the EB-5 Program’s future as a pathway to living, working, and studying in the U.S.
With over 15 years in the EB-5 field, Step Global Group is hosting a free seminar to clarify U.S. immigration myths and questions during this pivotal time.
Limited Seats Available. RSVP Now.
Join a unique session with Step Global Group to discuss the U.S. EB-5 Program’s realities and future openly and transparently.
