The layoff wave continues to rattle the global tech industry. Microsoft recently let go of nearly 3% of its entire workforce — marking its largest mass layoff in over two years. In Canada, the situation appears similarly grim. According to recent data, the country shed a net 32,600 jobs in March — its first employment decline in more than three years — driven largely by a steep drop in full-time roles. This followed stagnant job growth in February and a robust gain of 211,000 jobs from November to January. The unemployment rate climbed to 6.7% in March, up from 6.6% the previous month.
Amidst this churn, a social media post by a 27-year-old Indian techie based in Canada has gone viral, offering a deeply personal glimpse into the emotional and logistical challenges of career transitions. The techie, who is preparing to return to India after four years abroad, is seeking advice from others who’ve navigated similar moves.
“I’m moving back to Bangalore next week after spending the last 4 years in Canada (2 years studying, 1 year job searching, and 1 year working), and I’m hoping to get some advice and perspective from those who’ve gone through a similar transition,” the post reads.
After completing his bachelor’s degree in India, the techie moved to Canada for a Master’s in Computer Science. He eventually landed a job working with Java, Spring Boot, and Node.js, but was laid off in December 2024. With his work permit set to expire early next year and no clear path to permanent residency, he has decided to return to India for long-term stability.
“Emotionally, I’m feeling okay about the move — I won’t miss Canada too much, apart from the comfort and lifestyle,” he wrote. “There was never any pressure from my family to settle abroad, and in fact, my parents are happy that I’m coming back.”
However, the transition is not without its challenges. The techie noted that he has no prior work experience in India and anticipates approaching the job market almost like a fresher, despite his international Master’s and one year of experience abroad.
Adding to the pressure are growing family discussions about marriage. “My parents have started bringing up matrimonial discussions… They’re not expecting anything extravagant and are fine if I start around 6 LPA and grow gradually. Still, these added expectations during a career reset can be mentally overwhelming at times.” He worries about being perceived as “unstable” by potential matches or their families due to his recent job loss and modest expected salary.
That said, he acknowledges his privileges — a financially stable family, no loans, and parents who are emotionally supportive. “I’m trying to stay grounded and focused… It feels like I’m closing one chapter and starting another, and I’d like to do it in a grounded, thoughtful way.” The post has garnered widespread attention, with many users applauding his honesty and offering practical advice — from tips on breaking into India’s tech ecosystem to coping with the emotional weight of readjustment. Others who made similar moves also shared their own experiences, helping build a sense of solidarity and community. He signed off by encouraging fellow returnees to connect, especially those beginning their job search in Bangalore or Hyderabad.
“I don’t see any problem mentally adjusting back in India”
Internet lauded his decision to return. A user said, “It was just 4 years, you dont miss Canada, no hope of job or PR, no loans back in India, your family is happy that you are returning. I dont see any problem mentally adjusting back in India.” Another suggested him to move to Bangalore, “Bangalore is wise choice you will get the job easily. I miss Bangalore!.” A netizen asked him to go on a holiday, “With the amount of savings one would normally have, I would recommend a 2 month holiday. You deserve it.” “I’ll likely need to approach the job market almost like a fresher* – you don’t need to restart as a fresher. Your 1 year experience should be your bouncing board.There are many Engineers in India who are unable to find jobs so try to work with a good recruiter to put yourself in the job market. If you need help then feel free to connect with us and we can give few referrals. But it does seem the job market may start picking up after May since most companies might be doing performance assessment now. This feedback is from a recruiter. And do not hurry into getting married just because of relatives/parent’s pressure since expectations from both boys and girls have changed tremendously so make sure you are emotionally and financially settled in India first before getting married,” claimed a user. “You will get enough opportunities in India, specially in start-ups,” noted another.