At 27, a software engineer working for a Fortune 500 company in the United States has opened up about his plans to return to India next year on Reddit, citing constant visa-related stress as the primary reason. Currently on OPT, with his H-1B yet to be picked, he says next year will be his last attempt. His wife, an F2 dependent, shares the same concerns about living under “constant fear” in a foreign land.
The engineer revealed that despite working for two years in the US, he does not have substantial savings. However, he has managed to put away around ₹30 lakhs in liquid savings and another ₹16–17 lakhs in a 401(k) retirement account. While he acknowledges the financial cushion, he remains unsure if the amount is enough to restart life in India.
Visa Stress vs. Quality of Life
For many young Indian professionals, the H1B lottery system has been a source of anxiety. The couple, hailing from well-to-do families in a small Indian town, believe the uncertainty overshadows their life abroad. “Don’t want to be under constant visa stress. I am sure this is not the case with everyone, but we always feel scared and on the back foot while in public. We are getting the feeling that the constant ‘living under fear’ isn’t worth it for us,” the engineer explained.
Their dilemma mirrors that of many Indians in the US, who often weigh career opportunities against personal well-being.
India as a Rising Growth Hub
Others responding to his post highlighted India’s potential as a strong alternative. One user observed, “India’s economy is expanding at a healthy pace and is on track to become the world’s third-largest. With a growing population, a rising middle class, and strong buying power, the digital economy is only just taking off. The country is diverse, rooted in history and culture, politically stable, and filled with people eager to succeed. The potential is enormous—it feels like the U.S. in the 1970s. If challenges such as political interference, law-and-order issues, and corruption can be addressed, the future will be remarkable. Embrace it, drive the change, and ride the wave.”
Another commenter echoed the sentiment more concisely, saying, “India is the next growth engine. That’s where the jobs are. Go in peace.”
Disclaimer: This story is based on a post shared by a Reddit user. The details, opinions, and statements quoted herein belong solely to the original poster and do not reflect the views of Financialexpress.com. We have not independently verified the claims.
