An Amazon engineer earning $180,000 is leaving his high-paying job to move abroad due to recent US policy changes and visa fee hikes. Originally from China, he has 18 months left on his F-1 OPT and one chance in the H-1B lottery. The recent $100,000 fee increase under President Trump caused him stress, prompting his exit. For three years, immigration uncertainty affected his daily life, despite working at a top tech firm. He feels relieved to escape this worry, saying he felt trapped despite his success.
His plan now is to start a US-registered company and operate it remotely from abroad. This move offers benefits such as better healthcare, lower living costs, and greater personal freedom. The engineer shared that he originally came to the US seeking financial security and peace of mind, but instead faced ongoing fears related to visas covering student visas, OPT, H-1B, and green cards, creating a cycle of unpredictability.
He highlighted a new vision of the American dream: earning a US salary while living anywhere in the world. By running a US-based enterprise remotely, he hopes to enjoy an improved quality of life and flexibility. His decision reflects a broader trend among international professionals and students who depend on H-1B visas to work in the US. Recent policy shifts and increased fees are prompting many to reconsider their futures in the country, which could impact Indian IT companies notably, as they rely heavily on H-1B visas; about 70-72% of recipients are Indian.
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This move signifies a shift in what many see as the traditional American dream, emphasizing financial success coupled with personal freedom beyond US borders. It underscores the growing importance of global mobility and flexible work options in today’s tech-driven world.
