I left a six-figure job in New York due to H-1B visa restrictions
Chose to be closer to family over high salary and career opportunities
1Transformation in New York
Disha Lamba moved to the US in 2021 for a master's in computer engineering at NYU. Her five years in New York boosted her confidence and individuality. Through city conferences and events, she landed a data scientist position at CVS Health. However, in 2026, she decided to leave her six-figure salary and return to India. The main reasons were feeling distant from family and the restrictions imposed by the H-1B visa.
2Challenges of the H-1B visa
The H-1B visa comes with significant restrictions for workers. Disha realized the three-year increments required constant visa management. She noted the difficulty of getting stamping appointments in India and how it complicated changing employers, pursuing side income, or taking career breaks. These limitations accelerated her decision to return home.
3The importance of family bonds
Despite being satisfied with her social life and job in the US, Disha felt lonely. She missed her family connections in India and wanted to be present for important celebrations. Scheduling video calls with her mother around time differences became exhausting. Being able to hug her parents every morning reaffirms her decision was right.
4Career opportunities in India
Back in Gurugram, Disha believes India offers comparable career opportunities to the US. She mentions proximity to offices of major companies like EY, Mastercard, and American Express. The freedom to start a startup, switch employers, or pursue side hustles without visa restrictions is now possible. She's currently on a two-month career break while evaluating new opportunities.
5US vs India lifestyle comparison
Disha misses New York's walkable sidewalks and clean parks. However, having household help in India gives her time for hobbies. She notes comfortable living is possible in India with good earnings. Simple joys like morning green tea chats with family hold great significance for her.
6Career migration trend
Disha's story reflects a trend of skilled immigrants returning home due to visa issues. Trump administration's H-1B policies caused many workers to leave the US. Between 2024-2026, some of Disha's friends also relocated to other countries after failing to secure jobs or visa sponsorships. This trend is reshaping global talent mobility patterns.
7Impact of visa policies
The US State Department prioritizes thorough visa case reviews, but this creates long wait times in countries like India. The H-1B visa restricts workers' career flexibility while narrowing companies' talent pools. Firms like CVS avoid commenting on employees' visa challenges.
8The reward of sacrifice
Disha acknowledges leaving a six-figure salary and career opportunities was difficult. But being near family and free from visa restrictions makes the sacrifice worthwhile. She enjoys a more balanced life in India and believes long-term happiness outweighs material success. Her decision serves as an inspiring example for many immigrants.
Original article: Business Insider — H-1B vizesi sınırlamaları nedeniyle Hindistan'a döndüm