Faced with an Uncertain Future: The Dream of Staying in the US Fades Away

I moved to the US from India in 2021 for advanced studies without ever thinking it would lead to a permanent stay. My primary goal was to remain near my family back in India.

Soon after arriving, I embarked on a Master’s degree in engineering management at Duke University. By 2023, I joined Visa as a technical program manager.

Despite my desire to continue my career and education in the US, my attempts to secure an H-1B visa through the lottery failed on three occasions.

News about a proposed $100,000 fee for H-1B sponsorships by the Trump administration shattered my aspirations. With my current work authorization expiring in January, the idea of returning to India to apply again seems bleak due to the impending costs.

The Devastation of a H-1B Lottery Failure

Prior to my US journey, I accumulated over five years of experience at Tata Consultancy Services in Bengaluru. I was inspired by peers who succeeded abroad, which led me to pursue further education at a prestigious institution like Duke.

I entered the US under an F-1 student visa, enabling me to remain there post-graduation for a few more years with OPT, a valuable opportunity for STEM students.

Visa attempted to sponsor me for an H-1B visa from 2023, but the lottery system did not favor me then, nor in subsequent years. The repeated disappointments were heavy, especially after completing a leadership course at Harvard Business School by 2024.

This past April, when I wasn't selected for a third time, my emotional readiness dissolved and I found myself overwhelmed at work.

Rising Costs, Dwindling Hope

As my work permit is about to expire, uncertainty looms over my future. Prospective plans to study again in the US or return to India for job searches are discouraged by the hefty new fees for H-1B applicants.

Countries other than the US are now on my radar for possible relocation, yet this path too is fraught with challenges.

Opportunities in India, especially in the burgeoning startup sector, seem promising. My enriched résumé, boasting experiences from Harvard, Duke, and Visa, has equipped me well for this potential transition.

I'm particularly concerned about future international students facing uncertainties if these visa changes extend further, compounded by a tough job market and increasing automation.

Reflecting on a Transitory Dream

My tenure in America has been immensely rewarding. The educational and professional growth I achieved here is indisputable, thanks to the welcoming environment and access to top-tier institutions.

Current policies aim to protect national interests, yet they add risks for international students pondering a US education, unless they're ready to leave right after their permissions end without securing a work visa like the H-1B.

Investing both personally and professionally in the US, I find it bittersweet to depart after my contributions over these years — leaving behind an unfulfilled promise.