After nearly a decade in the United States, one immigrant professional is contemplating a life-altering decision, leaving the country for good. Arriving on an F-1 student visa nearly nine years ago, the individual has since transitioned to a cap-exempt H-1B visa tied to a non-profit organisation, where they have worked as a business analyst for the past two years. While the visa provides a legal pathway to eventual permanent residency, the day-to-day grind and personal sacrifices have started to take a toll.
“I recently went home for the first time in a long time,” they said on social media. “And ever since I returned, I’ve been thinking seriously about moving back. I don’t know if it’s burnout or just the years of grinding, but I feel like I’ve completely lost the motivation to keep chasing the ‘American Dream.’ It just doesn’t feel worth it anymore.”
Currently earning $65,000—well below market rate for the role and region—they say better-paying job offers have evaporated the moment they disclose their visa status. “This job has been my only realistic shot at a green card,” they explained. “But now, even that doesn’t feel like enough to keep going. I’m just going through the motions, trying to muster the energy to show up every day.” The story is not uncommon. Many foreign workers, especially those in non-profit or academic sectors under cap-exempt H-1B visas, face restricted mobility, career limitations, and a long, uncertain wait for permanent residency. The result is just frustration, stagnation, and for some, burnout.
“Just do it”
The Internet had some interesting response to this post. One user stated, “No, it wouldn’t have any adverse consequence for you to leave early before H1 expiration. No impact to B1/B2.“* Another remarked, “Unfortunately many Indians in US feel the same way OP. And I know for the fact that 65k doesn’t get you far in the east coast. If you have a quick path to GC stay in the US. Or find an opportunity back in India in a Tier 2 city. Best of luck!” A more decisive comment read, “Don’t think just do it. I have also decided to move back now. Actually life is too short to keep thinking. Sooner or later you will realise this.”
Others advised caution, with one recommending, “Do not move until you land a job offer in hand.” Meanwhile, another user bluntly said, *”Just go back home. US is not the land of hope anymore.” One commenter shared their personal experience: “I am in a similar situation. Working as a Financial Analyst and earning $63k annually with next to nothing in bonuses. I came in the US in August 2022 for a Masters, graduated in August 2023 – took 12 & 15 credits to save costs, landed my current job in August 2023, got picked for H1B and started on the visa from Oct 2024. I have been actively looking for new jobs since August 2023 itself because I didn’t like the JD for the role – took it just because of my F1 OPT, few interviews but no offers. Seriously thinking of moving back because can’t save up anything, I did pay off my loans, too much travel for the job even though it’s hybrid. Just sharing to reassure that you are not alone. Many of us have the same thoughts.”