Disha Lamba, a 28-year-old data scientist, made a significant life change in May 2026, choosing to leave her high-paying position at CVS Health in New York and return to India. Despite holding a six-figure US salary and being selected for the coveted H-1B visa, Lamba decided that the desire to be closer to family and the limitations imposed by the US work visa outweighed the professional opportunities in America.
From New York Ambition to Gurugram Comfort
Lamba initially moved to New York in 2021 at the age of 23 to pursue a master's degree in computer engineering at New York University. Her time in the US was transformative, fostering personal growth, independence, and a keen interest in data science and hiking. By 2024, she had secured a data scientist role at CVS Health after networking at a New York event.
The Hidden Costs of a US Career
Despite a fulfilling job and an active social life, Lamba increasingly struggled with the emotional toll of living far from her family. She articulated the profound loneliness of returning home to an empty apartment and missing crucial family events. The significant time difference also complicated regular communication with her mother, whom she considers her best friend.
Another critical factor in her decision was the restrictive nature of the H-1B visa. Although CVS Health sponsored her visa, and she was selected in the March 2026 lottery, Lamba found its constraints problematic. She noted that H-1B holders often require a new visa stamp for international travel and face complications when attempting to change employers, pursue additional income streams, or take career breaks. "The H-1B has its pros, but I wasn't OK with the cons," she explained.
Embracing Flexibility and Family in India
Upon resigning from CVS, Lamba returned to Gurugram to live with her parents and brother. She opted for a two-month career break, relying on her savings, rather than immediately seeking new employment.
In India, Lamba envisions a future with greater professional flexibility. She believes she can explore entrepreneurial ventures, switch jobs, or engage in side hustles without the visa-related anxieties she experienced in the US. She also sees comparable career prospects within India, highlighting the presence of major companies like EY, Mastercard, and American Express with offices nearby.
"I haven't got a job offer in hand yet, but I think India offers similar career opportunities to the US," Lamba stated.
Weighing the Trade-offs: New York vs. Home
While Lamba admits to missing certain aspects of New York, such as its iconic skyline, walkability, and well-maintained public parks, she highly values the conveniences of life in India, including readily available domestic help, which frees up more time for personal interests.
She occasionally reflects on whether leaving the US was the right choice, but the daily presence of her family affirms her decision. "Getting to hug my parents every morning reminds me it was worth it," Lamba shared, emphasizing that returning home has brought a new appreciation for the simple, everyday moments often taken for granted.