Indians have long sought better opportunities in the US, Canada, and Europe. However, a surprising trend is emerging in Sweden, where an increasing number of Indians are choosing to leave the country. This shift in migration patterns has sparked curiosity, and insights from an Indian software engineer and the CEO of the Sweden-India Business Council shed light on the reasons behind this exodus.Between January and June 2024, Sweden witnessed a staggering 171% rise in Indian emigrants, with 2,837 individuals leaving the country. This marks the highest rate of Indian emigration from Sweden since 1998, signaling a significant change in migration trends.Professional growth and career opportunities in IndiaAnkur Tyagi, an Indian software engineer living in Sweden, recently took to social media to share his thoughts on why many Indians are leaving the fifth-largest European country, despite its beautiful landscapes, unique culture, and new experiences. Tyagis post, which has since gone viral, highlights several key factors driving this trend.Tyagi notes that professional growth in India is a major reason for the exodus. With Indias booming economy, highly skilled professionals now have access to competitive salaries and exciting career opportunities, making the prospect of returning home increasingly appealing. Indias economy is thriving, and many professionals are finding better career prospects back home, Tyagi wrote on X.Why Indians Are Moving Back to India from Sweden.After enjoying Swedens beautiful landscapes, unique culture, and new experiences, many Indians are finding themselves drawn back to India.As an Indian living in Sweden, here are my thoughts on why this trend is becoming more… https://t.co/1bHb8On05e— Ankur💻🎧💪 (@TheAnkurTyagi) August 21, 2024In addition to career opportunities, Tyagi points out that loneliness and lack of close friends are significant factors. Many Indians in Sweden struggle to form close connections due to cultural and language barriers, which can lead to feelings of isolation. This contrasts sharply with the strong social bonds they had back home.Tyagi also mentions the challenges faced by spouses of Indian professionals in Sweden, who often struggle to find employment due to a lack of Swedish language skills. Despite being qualified and experienced, many spouses find it difficult to secure jobs, further contributing to the decision to return to India.Family ties and social integrationThe desire to be closer to family, especially aging parents, is another driving force. Many Indians believe that being near family enhances overall happiness, particularly for children who benefit from spending time with their grandparents.Social integration remains a challenge for many Indians in Sweden, leading some to feel more comfortable returning to India. The harsh Swedish weather and high cost of living also make Indias warmer climate and lower cost of living more attractive.Impact of remote work flexibilityThe rise of remote work, accelerated by the pandemic, has also played a role. With the ability to work from anywhere, some Indians have chosen to return to India while continuing to work for international employers.Robin Sukhia, Secretary-General and CEO of the Sweden-India Business Council, has identified additional challenges faced by Indians in Sweden, including a shortage of service apartments and general accommodation issues. Sukhia believes that a combination of factors, including high living costs and accommodation challenges, is likely behind the trend. A full-year assessment is needed to fully understand the reasons behind this change, Sukhia told The Local Sweden.Indians still key immigrants, despite the exodusDespite the surge in emigration, Indians remain one of the largest groups of new immigrants to Sweden in 2024, second only to Ukrainians. Between January and June 2024, 2,461 Indian-born individuals moved to Sweden, a decrease from 3,681 during the same period last year. Excluding the pandemic years, this represents the lowest level of Indian immigration since 2017.
