Why Do Indians Want to Move Abroad?

Having spent a significant part of my life straddling two worlds—living and thriving in the heart of Silicon Valley and then making the bold decision to return to India—I am often confronted with the question, “Why would anyone leave the comfort and opportunities of America to come back to India?” But another equally important question looms large: Why are so many Indians eager to leave the country and seek a future abroad?

The answer is not straightforward. It’s a mix of ambition, dreams, perceived opportunities, and sometimes, a sense of escape. For many Indians, moving abroad is not just a change of address but a significant milestone, almost a rite of passage that signifies success and accomplishment.

Why Is Moving Abroad So Popular?

To understand why Indians are drawn to this idea, let’s look at the ground reality. Visit any MNC office in India, and you’ll find a significant number of employees planning their next big move—whether it’s through an internal transfer or by pursuing higher education abroad. It’s almost like an invisible line forms, where everyone’s waiting for their turn to move westward.

Fresh graduates are eager to pursue a master’s degree in the US, while slightly older professionals find themselves caught in the web of FOMO as they watch friends and colleagues purchase homes in places like New Jersey or the Bay Area. These images of a perceived better life create a compelling narrative that pushes many to consider moving abroad as the ultimate goal.

I remember a colleague approaching me once, asking, “Nithin, can you write about why I shouldn’t move to the US?” It was an unusual request, especially because my typical advice to aspiring NRIs is, “Go for it!” He was caught in the dilemma that so many face—whether to chase the promise of a better future or stay back and remain connected to family and roots. This inner conflict, between ambition and responsibility, is a classic struggle that countless Indians experience.

What Do Indians Really Think About Moving Abroad?

To get a clearer picture, I decided to conduct a survey, reaching out to over 1000 individuals to understand their sentiments. The results were illuminating. About 75% of respondents expressed a desire to move abroad. That’s a substantial number, but not as overwhelming as the often-quoted “everyone wants to leave” narrative. This data reveals a more nuanced picture, indicating that while many are keen to explore opportunities abroad, it’s not an aspiration shared by all.

Why Do People Want to Leave India?

The reasons are both complex and straightforward, rooted in a mix of personal ambitions, societal pressures, and perceived limitations within the country:

1. Financial Growth and Stability: Money is, unsurprisingly, the biggest driver for most people. For many Indians, earning in dollars or euros means financial freedom that is hard to achieve in India. A dollar salary doesn’t just translate into more money—it translates into a life where savings grow faster, investments multiply, and the ability to support family back home becomes easier. The perception is that NRIs live a life of luxury, marked by big houses, fancy cars, and a comfortable lifestyle. But, the reality can be different.

• 2. Career Advancement: Nearly half of the survey respondents believe that the best job opportunities are abroad. The United States, in particular, is seen as the epicenter of technological advancements, research, and finance roles. It’s where innovations happen, and being a part of that ecosystem is a dream for many. Whether it’s working with cutting-edge technology or contributing to groundbreaking research, the allure of being at the forefront of global industries is strong.

• 3. Quality of Life: This is a big one. Better infrastructure, reliable public services, and access to the latest technology make Western countries particularly appealing. In India, navigating daily life can sometimes feel like an uphill battle—frequent power cuts, chaotic traffic, and inconsistent public services can be exhausting. In contrast, the efficiency and predictability of life abroad, coupled with the ability to enjoy a “cheaper luxury,” is a significant draw.

• 4. Social Freedom: For many, especially women, the prospect of living in a society where personal choices are respected and privacy is valued is incredibly appealing. Abroad, there’s no one to question your life decisions, no intrusive relatives or neighbors peeking into your life. This sense of freedom and the ability to live life on one’s own terms is liberating and is often a decisive factor in the decision to move.

• 5. Escape from Social and Family Pressures: Family is central to Indian culture, but it can also be stifling. The constant expectations, societal norms, and judgments can feel suffocating. For some, moving abroad offers the much-needed distance to break free from these pressures and focus on their own growth and happiness.

The Reality Check: Life Abroad Can Be Challenging

1. It’s a Relentless Treadmill: Life abroad often feels like being on an endless treadmill. There’s a constant pressure to perform, especially when your visa status is tied to your job. The stakes are high, and the margin for error is low. It’s not uncommon to feel the weight of expectations bearing down, with little room to slow down or catch your breath.

2. Loneliness and Isolation: The vibrant, spontaneous social life that’s a hallmark of Indian communities is hard to replicate abroad. In suburban areas, where most NRIs settle, social interactions can be few and far between. The sense of isolation can be overwhelming, especially when you’re far away from family and friends.

3. The Harsh Weather: It’s easy to romanticize snow until you have to shovel your driveway at 6 a.m. before heading to work. The long, harsh winters in many Western countries can be mentally and physically draining. For those used to India’s warmer climate, adjusting to prolonged periods of cold, darkness, and solitude can be challenging.

4. The Illusion of Return: Many Indians believe they’ll move abroad, save money, and then return to India. But the reality is, once you’ve adapted to life abroad, the idea of coming back becomes daunting. The conveniences, the systems, and the lifestyle you get used to make the thought of returning to India feel like taking a step back.

Is It Worth It?

For those struggling with FOMO, my advice is this: be honest with yourself about why you want to move. Are you genuinely passionate about the opportunities abroad, or are you just chasing an illusion? If moving abroad is your dream, then by all means, go for it. But if it’s just a passing thought, focus on building a fulfilling life where you are.

But Is Moving Abroad Really the Dream Everyone Imagines?

It’s easy to get swept up in the dream of moving abroad, but reality often paints a different picture. While headlines in India celebrate stories of high-paying jobs and luxurious lifestyles, these are often exceptions, not the norm. In reality, many jobs in smaller US cities pay less than $100K annually, which, after taxes, doesn’t translate to the extravagant lifestyle many imagine.

Day-to-day life abroad is not just about earning more; it’s also about doing more. There’s no domestic help to clean your home or cook your meals. You’re on your own, balancing demanding work schedules with household chores and daily responsibilities. The support systems we take for granted in India—family, friends, even hired help—are often missing abroad. It’s a significant shift, and not everyone is prepared for it.

Where Do Indians Want to Move?

The United States remains the top destination, followed by Europe and the UK. Canada, Australia, and Singapore are also popular choices. Why? It’s not just about job opportunities or education. It’s about joining established Indian communities, reconnecting with family and friends, and building a life that offers both familiarity and opportunity.

How Do People Plan to Move?

The survey revealed interesting trends. Younger, unmarried Indians often look to education as their gateway abroad. It’s a proven path to residency and better job prospects. Those with families tend to rely on office transfers, which seem safer and more stable. But the competition is fierce, and the path isn’t guaranteed.

There’s also the misconception that joining an MNC in India will eventually lead to a transfer abroad. While it’s a strategy many employ, the reality is that such transfers are not easy to come by and are often contingent on multiple factors, including the company’s needs and your performance.

Final Thoughts

Moving abroad is not just about changing your address—it’s about changing your life. It’s a deeply personal decision that involves balancing aspirations with realities, dreams with practicalities. For some, it’s the right choice—a chance to grow and explore new horizons. For others, staying in India, close to family and familiar surroundings, offers a richer and more connected life.

Whatever you choose, make sure it’s a decision that feels right for you. Don’t let societal pressures or FOMO drive your choices. It’s your life, and the path you choose should align with your values and aspirations.

If you’re contemplating this decision, know that it’s okay to be unsure. It’s a big step, and it’s not just about changing your location—it’s about reshaping your life. I’m here to help you think through it, share insights, and guide you based on my own journey. Whether you choose to stay or go, make the decision that feels right for you.