Rs 40,000 salary, 16-hour work days, loneliness: Ankur Warikoo shares harsh ‘survival’ reality of living abroad.

Every year, several professionals leave their home countries in search of better career prospects, higher salaries, and global exposure. From tech hubs in North America to research centres in Europe and emerging markets in Australia, the promise of growth and an improved standard of living continues to attract ambitious individuals. For many, working abroad represents access to world-class facilities, diverse work cultures, and opportunities that may not be available locally. This steady rise in overseas migration reflects a broader shift in how people view success, prioritising international experience, financial stability, and long-term career advancement in an increasingly interconnected world.

Overseas illusion meets financial strain

Ankur Warikoo, however, paints a different picture. The entrepreneur, author and digital creator recently shared a video on Instagram where he talked about how living abroad does not always come with advantages and, for many, can turn into a struggle for survival.

In the video, Ankur Warikoo pointed out that while countries like Canada, the US, Germany, and Australia are often seen as dream destinations, the reality on the ground is rarely discussed. He explained that a salary in the range of $40,000 to $50,000 may sound impressive at first, but a significant portion is quickly consumed by expenses such as high rent, student loan repayments, and daily living costs, leaving little room for savings.

Hidden struggles behind global migration dreams

The entrepreneur further noted that many Indians end up taking on survival jobs and working long hours, sometimes stretching to 16-hour days, just to make ends meet. Alongside financial pressure, individuals often deal with homesickness, cultural adjustment challenges, and a sense of isolation that can make daily life emotionally taxing.

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A post shared by Ankur Warikoo (@ankurwarikoo)

Through his message, Ankur Warikoo emphasised that while going abroad can offer valuable exposure and learning, it is not always a guaranteed path to success. Instead, he suggested that individuals should approach the decision with realistic expectations, like gaining experience and perspective, but also recognising when it may be time to return home rather than remain stuck in a difficult cycle.