Bengaluru, After years of navigating the complexities of the US immigration system, Bengaluru-based professional Radhika Agarwal made the bold decision in 2019 to give up her L1 visa and return to India — a move she now describes as life-changing.

The University of California, Berkeley alumna took to X recently to recount her experiences, highlighting how years of uncertainty with visa applications eventually led her to choose stability and purpose back home. Her story has since gone viral, resonating with thousands who have faced similar struggles.

Struggles with the US immigration system

Agarwal revealed that she attempted to secure an H-1B visa three times, but each effort ended unsuccessfully. Eventually, she obtained an L1 visa — a prized approval for many Indian professionals — only to decide against pursuing it.

“I’ve had my whole saga with the US visa system: 3 H1b lottery misses, cross-border long distance relationship through it all, finally getting L1 visa approval, and then deciding to come back home in ’19, giving up the L1 I wanted so badly…” she wrote in her post.

She noted the toll that uncertainty took on her professional and personal life, describing the decision to move back as one rooted in clarity and long-term perspective.

Why returning to India felt right

In her viral post, Agarwal listed four key reasons that made her decision worthwhile:

  1. The opportunity to engage with India’s growing start-up and venture capital ecosystem.
  2. The chance to live closer to her parents.
  3. A stronger sense of community.
  4. Freedom to take career risks without the looming stress of visa renewals.

Her words struck a chord with many Indians in the US who continue to grapple with the uncertainty of visa statuses.

Encouragement for others facing uncertainty

Agarwal urged those feeling trapped in the immigration cycle to consider moving back. “If you’re looking at the new H1b announcement (or the climate in general) and wondering ‘should I move back’ – this is your sign to say HELL YES :)” she added.

Since her return, she has built a strong professional network in India’s consumer tech and start-up ecosystem. She is also offering to connect others who wish to transition back with people in her professional circle.

Policy backdrop and larger debate

Her story comes at a time of heightened debate over US visa rules. Earlier this year, a controversial proposal suggested imposing a 100,000 dollar annual fee on new H-1B applications, though officials later clarified that existing visa holders would not be affected.

The uncertainty surrounding such policies has deepened anxiety among Indian professionals in the US, making Agarwal’s message all the more relevant.

Social media reactions

The post quickly sparked an online discussion, with many sharing their own experiences. “I gave up a L1A too so totally get it… But a big difference when you make that decision vs when forced to make it. The frustration for a lot of folks is the latter. Some of them have loans, some have kids and some are in relationships. They are being forced to make decisions,” one user commented.

Another wrote: “Your journey highlights the importance of aligning career choices with personal values and life priorities. It’s inspiring to see how you found growth and community back home.”

Conclusion

Agarwal’s journey has become a reminder of the personal choices behind career decisions that often extend beyond pay cheques or prestigious visas. For many Indian professionals abroad, her message offers encouragement to consider opportunities closer to home — where both professional growth and personal fulfilment may await.