Tougher UK, US visas and rising costs push Indians home

India Sep 13, 2026

Tougher visa rules and rising costs in countries like the UK and the US are making it harder for young Indian professionals to stay abroad.

Avani Patel, 25, had to come back from the UK earlier this year after employers wouldn't sponsor her visa, even though she was qualified.

The UK has also hiked its minimum salary requirement for skilled visas, shutting out many foreign graduates.

Returnees land jobs, face lower pay

The US new petition fee and shifting green card rules, so more Indians are heading home each year.

Reliance Industries, Mahindra Automotive, and Axis Bank now offer openings for these skilled returnees.

Still, many face tough competition or lower pay: some even join global firms' India offices at reduced salaries.