An Indian-origin technician and his US-based cardiologist spouse are considering moving to Dubai because H-1B The visa stamps hampered their ability to visit relatives in India. Although they were considered essential workers, both men experienced significant delays in obtaining work permits. green card If they travel internationally, they may face the possibility of not being able to return to the United States. Their situation illustrates a broader trend among skilled migrants, who are reassessing where they live and work in light of immigration challenges and global mobility choices.
Their story was shared by immigration analyst Sam Peak, who chose not to identify them and obtained their consent before going public with their situation on social media.
The man was a technical professional who had worked in the United States for more than a decade, while his wife was the chief cardiologist at a prominent hospital on the East Coast. The tech professional mentioned that he has a National Interest Waiver (NIW) and said his contributions were considered important to the United States, so he qualified for an expedited exemption green card A process that does not require employer sponsorship – highlighting his value to the country rather than to any particular organization.
Indian couple living in US says: ‘We are exhausted’
Although the national interest waiver made him eligible for a green card more quickly, he found himself in a long waiting line “because of the way the system was supportive.”
“My wife is in a similar situation, and that’s the real problem. She’s an elite cardiologist at a top hospital on the East Coast. She’s published tons of research and is a rock star in the field of heart health, but she hasn’t been able to fly home to see her dog family in over three years. The nightmare of trying to get a visa appointment to come back leaves us cold every time she thinks about leaving,” the technician said, expressing their faith in the American dream.
“But to be honest, we’re just exhausted. It’s exhausting to be told you’re important but to be treated like a temporary blip. We’re seriously considering moving to Dubai. It sucks to leave when you love the values ​​here, but we can’t put our lives and our ability to be with our families on hold for another ten years,” the man said.
How the H-1B visa stamping crisis unfolded
H-1B visa Holders must have a valid passport stamp to re-enter the United States, which is usually renewed in their country of origin. The US Consulate in India has experienced significant delays since December 2025, with new appointment dates extended to 2027. This situation effectively confines numerous professionals within India. uspreventing them from traveling abroad, even for urgent family matters, and leading some to seek residency in countries with more stable entry regulations.
What’s the future for this couple?
If the couple moves to Dubai, they may enjoy greater travel flexibility and closer access to India while continuing their careers. Instead, staying in the United States will face another decade of unpredictability.
