I think it really depends on what matters most to you. No job is 100% perfect. If you’re after a higher salary, chances are you’ll have to compromise on work-life balance. If you need visa sponsorship, you may have to accept a certain level of “exploitation.”
From a company’s perspective, it all comes down to cost. It’s not always that H1B workers are cheaper—it’s that part of the “cost” is tied to your sponsorship. If you’re a local employee, that cost is simply your salary.
That said, I do believe when you’re young, you have more flexibility to take risks. But if the work culture or schedule starts affecting your mental health, it’s time to leave. On the other hand, if you’re still learning and gaining value from the position—whether it’s the sponsorship or the paycheck—it might not be wise to rush your next move. Sometimes, jumping too quickly just means trading one fire pit for another.
1 Like
Yeah, it’s a tough balance. I think for me, once I feel like my growth is being blocked or I’m being taken advantage of because of my visa status, that’s a big signal to seriously consider other offers. We deserve to be valued, not just tolerated.
I have been in a situation that I felt the grass is greener on another side but actually the grass is greener on this side. So be careful
True. I only see work life balance exists in entry level jobs or family business lol
so switching jobs can be intimidating…to say the least lol. If we’re on OPT or H1b, new employers can be uncertain when considering our uncertain long-term employment authorization. 
