Impact of Trump Policies: Indian Tech Professionals in the US Face Harsh Reality of Salary Cuts Upon Return
US immigration policies and layoffs in the tech sector are driving a significant number of Indian professionals to return home. In 2026, 12,900 techies have already returned to India, a trend that may continue as uncertainty around H-1B visas persists. However, these returnees face challenges in securing comparable roles and salaries, as employers increasingly prioritize specialized skills over international experience.
Returnee Statistics
According to data from Xpheno, a staffing firm, the number of Indian tech professionals returning from the US is on the rise. In 2025, 15,100 techies returned, while only 14,800 moved to the US in 2026. Industry experts predict that the trend of returnees will continue, driven by ongoing challenges in US immigration policies and the expanding opportunities within India’s tech ecosystem. Kamal Karanth, co-founder of Xpheno, notes that the return of US-based Indian techies is likely to persist due to these factors.
Roles for Returning Techies
Returning professionals are finding opportunities in various tech roles, including software engineers, project managers, and data analysts. There is notable interest in positions related to AI engineering, cloud computing, and technology leadership. Neeti Sharma, CEO of TeamLease Digital, highlights that companies in India are increasingly offering roles that allow returnees to take on significant responsibilities and drive technology decisions. Approximately 2,500 senior returnees have been absorbed into Global Capability Centers (GCCs), which are now taking ownership of critical functions.
Salary Discrepancies
Despite the influx of talent, returnees are confronted with stark salary differences. Many find that compensation in India does not match their previous earnings in the US. Karanth explains that salary packages vary based on factors such as role, location, and experience level. The days of commanding a premium for being a US-returned professional are over. For instance, a Full Stack engineer in the US can earn between $70,000 and $150,000 annually, while the equivalent role in India offers between $20,000 and $32,000. Returnees often need to adjust their salary expectations to align with local market conditions.
Impact on India’s IT Sector
The return of experienced tech professionals is beneficial for India’s IT sector, enriching the talent pool. Karanth states that this influx can enhance the sophistication of the sector, as returnees bring exposure to global markets and advanced skills. However, this also means increased competition for existing talent in India. Companies are now looking for specific skills rather than just international experience, particularly in areas like AI and cybersecurity. As a result, professionals in India may face heightened competition, especially at mid and senior levels.
