‘I Am Scared’: Indian Techie In US Weighs Returning Home Amid Visa And Job Uncertainty

An Indian technology professional working in the United States on a STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT) extension has shared concerns about the country's challenging job market, saying they are considering returning to India after struggling to secure employment for nearly a year. In a post on Reddit titled “Planning to return back to India, the job market here in the US is taking a toll on me,” the individual described the difficulties of balancing career aspirations with immigration-related uncertainties.

The user said they moved to the United States four years ago for higher education and secured a job soon after graduation, but later left the position due to funding-related issues and concerns surrounding their immigration status. The authenticity of the claims could not be independently verified.

According to the post, the technology professional has spent the past year applying for jobs and attending multiple interviews. While they reportedly progressed through several recruitment processes, they claimed that prospective employers were hesitant to move forward because of visa-related considerations and the limited duration remaining on their work authorisation.

The individual stated that they have around a year left on their visa and believe this has become a major obstacle in their job search. Many companies, they said, appeared reluctant to hire candidates who may require future sponsorship or whose work authorisation is nearing its expiration date. The prolonged search has left them questioning whether remaining in the United States is a viable option.

The post highlighted the emotional toll of the situation, with the user admitting to feeling increasingly anxious about the future. “I am scared,” the individual wrote, reflecting concerns not only about employment but also about long-term immigration prospects. The uncertainty of securing a stable position before the end of the visa period has become a source of significant stress.

The experience resonated with several members of the online community, many of whom shared similar challenges. Commenters pointed to a tougher hiring environment in parts of the technology industry, where companies have become more selective amid economic uncertainty and periodic layoffs. Others noted that visa sponsorship concerns often influence hiring decisions, particularly for international graduates and early-career professionals.

Also Read: Parliamentary Panel To Question NTA, NMC Officials Over NEET-UG Re-Exam

The STEM OPT programme allows eligible international students in science, technology, engineering and mathematics disciplines to work in the United States for an extended period after graduation. While it offers valuable professional experience, many participants face pressure to secure longer-term employment and work visas before their authorisation expires.

The post has drawn attention to the broader challenges facing international professionals in the US technology sector, where immigration requirements and labour market conditions often intersect. For some, returning to India has become an increasingly realistic option as the country's technology industry continues to expand and offer new career opportunities. While the individual's future plans remain undecided, the post reflects the uncertainty many foreign workers experience while navigating employment and immigration pathways in the United States.

Also Read: From Uri To Operation Sindoor, Modi Government Shapes India’s National Security Policy