New Delhi, March 9 -- Affluent Indians are increasingly applying for the EB-5 visa to the United States, following former US President Donald Trump's proposal of a "Gold Card" for immigrants at a cost of $5 million-significantly higher than the $800,000 required for the EB-5 programme, which offers permanent residency.

"We are witnessing a surge in EB-5 visa applications. Our office is overwhelmed with inquiries as many applicants are rushing to submit their I-526E petitions before any potential changes to the existing rules," said Sukanya Raman, India country head at Davies and Associates LLC, as quoted by the Economic Times.

Uncertainty remains over whether Trump's proposed Gold Card would replace the EB-5 programme.

With rapid shift...