The US job market is becoming increasingly challenging for international students, particularly those from India. AI-driven visa screenings are filtering out applicants who do not have indefinite work authorization, making it difficult even to secure internships. Parents investing $300,000 or more in their children’s American education may need to rethink their strategy.
Entrepreneur Vijay Tirumala recently highlighted these growing difficulties and suggested alternative paths for students and families looking for better return on investment (ROI).
Why Are Indian Students Struggling to Find Jobs in the US?
AI-Driven Visa Screening
Employers are now using automated filters to screen applicants. One of the first questions in job applications is: “Do you have permission to work in the US indefinitely?” If the answer is “No,” the candidate is often rejected immediately.
| Challenge | Impact on Students |
|---|---|
| AI-Driven Screening | Immediate rejection if no Green Card |
| OPT & H-1B Uncertainty | Employers avoid candidates needing future sponsorship |
| Expensive Education | No guaranteed job opportunities post-graduation |
Even students on Optional Practical Training (OPT), who should technically have work authorization for at least a year, are facing challenges because companies don’t want to deal with future visa sponsorship issues.
Alternative Paths for Indian Students
Rather than blindly investing in a US degree with uncertain job prospects, Thirumalai suggests two viable alternatives:
1. Consider Studying in Countries with Clear Residency Paths
Instead of spending $300,000+ on a US degree without job security, families should consider countries with clearer immigration paths.
| Country | Top Universities | Residency Path |
|---|---|---|
| Canada | University of Toronto, University of Waterloo | Post-graduation work permits and easy PR routes |
| Germany | TU Munich, RWTH Aachen | Free/low-cost education and EU work opportunities |
| Australia | University of Sydney, Monash University | Skilled migration pathways for students |
These countries offer top-tier education, post-graduation work opportunities, and a direct path to residency without the complexities of US immigration policies.
2. EB-5 Investment for a Direct Green Card Path
For those determined to send their children to the US, Tirumala recommends the EB-5 visa program as a way to bypass the H-1B lottery and visa-related job search struggles.
What is the EB-5 Visa?
- A Green Card program through investment.
- Requires $800,000 investment in a US business.
- Provides Employment Authorization Document (EAD) in two years.
- Allows students to secure jobs without visa sponsorship.
Why Consider EB-5? 
Work Freedom: No need for an H-1B or employer sponsorship. Internship Opportunities: Students are eligible for top-tier jobs while studying. Entrepreneurship Options: Start a business without immigration restrictions. Rupee Depreciation Factor: Over time, the cost of EB-5 is effectively less than $250K.
Tirumala points out that NRIs can avail of $400K credit under FEMA regulations, which effectively reduces the required capital to $400K instead of $800K.
The Real Cost of US Education vs. EB-5 Investment
| Investment Option | Cost | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| US Undergraduate Degree | $300,000+ | No job guarantee, work visa issues |
| EB-5 Visa + US Degree | $400,000 | Green Card, unrestricted job access |
For families with multiple children, structuring an EB-5 application can also help minimize taxation concerns and ensure a smoother immigration path for the entire family.
The job market is shifting, and Indian students in the US are facing unprecedented visa-related hiring challenges. Parents investing large sums in their children’s US education should consider alternative paths like: Choosing countries with clear residency options (Canada, Germany, Australia). Using the EB-5 visa to secure a Green Card early and avoid work restrictions.
With smart planning, students can avoid the H-1B mess, secure top-tier jobs, and build a strong career abroad without uncertainty.
