With India offering growing opportunities, especially in technology and entrepreneurship, many professionals are now finding that returning home is not a setback, but a strategic and fulfilling choice
An increasing number of Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) are reassessing the promise of life abroad, and for some, the decision to return home is becoming clearer than ever. One such voice is that of Saswath, an Indian professional and social media influencer who moved to Canada with high expectations but chose to return to India within just 18 months—calling it one of the best decisions of his life, reported financialexpress.com based on a Instagram story.
Nearly a year and a half after moving back, Saswath says he is still frequently asked why he left Canada so soon. To address the curiosity and assumptions around migration, he recently shared his experience on social media, striking a chord with many young Indians navigating similar dilemmas.
According to Saswath, the biggest challenge was employment. Contrary to popular belief, he explained that securing a corporate job in Canada without permanent residency (PR) is extremely difficult. He estimated that candidates without PR have only a marginal chance of landing suitable roles, despite having relevant skills and experience. He cited his own experience of interviewing for the same organisation in both countries—being rejected in Canada but hired in India—largely due to visa status.
The nature of available work was another concern. Saswath said the jobs he could access in Canada were not aligned with his professional goals.
Like many migrants, the gentleman said his insta post that he had moved abroad expecting a significantly better lifestyle, only to realise that the quality of life he enjoyed in India was already higher. He observed that the lifestyle many aspire to overseas often takes eight to ten years of sustained struggle to achieve
Family emerged as the second major factor behind his return. While living abroad is often associated with independence and freedom, Saswath said prolonged isolation altered his perspective. Living alone made him appreciate the emotional support and everyday chaos of family life in India. Distance, he noted, brings clarity about what truly matters.
He acknowledged that Canada offers advantages such as cleaner surroundings, better infrastructure and improved air quality. However, he also pointed out that many friends abroad continue to struggle with stability while missing valuable time with parents and loved ones back home.
Saswath’s story reflects a broader shift. As countries like Canada, the US and the UK tighten immigration rules, raise visa fees and limit intake—particularly for international students—migration pathways have become slower and more uncertain. Canada’s federal cap of 437,000 study permits in 2025 is a clear signal of this change.
