Despite a Successful Career in the US, Indian Worker Returns Home After 12 Years, Shares Why He Came Back

Many Indians moving abroad believe that working in countries like the United States will solve their problems, offering higher salaries and a better work-life balance. While this is often true, it can also bring its own set of challenges, including visa and immigration issues, homesickness, and family responsibilities.

A recent example comes from an Indian worker who spent 12 years in the US before returning to India. The worker explained that he decided to come back to care for his elderly parents, a responsibility he could no longer ignore. Sharing his experience, he said he feels relieved and happy with the decision, enjoying the comforts of home-cooked meals, freedom from immigration-related worries, and a more balanced life.

A Difficult Decision

On Reddit, the worker wrote, “Returning to India was perhaps one of the toughest decisions of my life. I came back to take care of my elderly parents, who were struggling with health issues. Being away from them was unbearable.” He added that returning was the right choice, as he managed to secure a remote job in India and has enough savings to maintain financial independence.

Freedom from Visa and Immigration Concerns

The worker explained, “Looking back, I am glad I returned. I could support my parents after their surgeries and be close to them. I can sleep peacefully knowing they are just a room away. There are no worries about visas, immigration, or losing citizenship.”

Nostalgia and Mixed Emotions

Despite being happy in India, the worker admitted to feeling nostalgic about the US. “I had a great life in California, and I still have my US Social Security number, ID, and bank accounts. It feels strange that I cannot go back. I did not bring any money from the US, but after 12 years, I had developed a strong attachment to a place where I was always considered a foreigner,” he shared.

His story highlights the complex emotions and challenges faced by Indians living abroad—where career success and a better lifestyle can sometimes come at the cost of family bonds and emotional well-being.