‘You need to become a maid, plumber, carpenter, technician’: Indian man living in Norway gives a reality check on what life abroad is really like

For many Indians, moving abroad is seen as a pathway to better career opportunities, higher salaries and a more comfortable lifestyle. From professionals relocating to the US, UK and Europe to students pursuing higher education in Canada, Australia and Germany, the dream of building a better future overseas continues to attract thousands. A foreign degree, international work experience and the promise of greater financial independence often make countries abroad seem especially appealing. However, life after relocation can come with challenges that are rarely discussed. Indian expat Vinod, who has been living in Norway, recently offered a brutal reality check to those dreaming of moving abroad in a post on X.

What happens after you land abroad?

As per the post, Vinod said people frequently focus on the process of reaching countries such as Europe or the US, but rarely consider what happens once they actually arrive. Based on his years in Norway, he observed that many people successfully secure the required degree, visa and employment, but building a fulfilling life afterwards can be an entirely different challenge.


He explained that professional competence does not necessarily translate into confidence in handling everyday life independently. Someone who arrives with expertise in their profession may suddenly find themselves inexperienced when it comes to managing several practical responsibilities that come with living overseas.

Everyday challenges nobody talks about

According to Vinod, these responsibilities can range from looking after a car and managing a home to understanding taxes, shopping for groceries, completing paperwork and maintaining relationships. Being far away from family and familiar support systems can make these ordinary tasks considerably more demanding.

He further pointed out that people living abroad may have to learn a wide range of practical skills themselves. From handling household chores to fixing plumbing issues, carrying out basic carpentry, dealing with technical problems and even managing electrical work, there may be no one readily available to step in and help.

Why surviving abroad isn’t always success

Vinod noted that the lack of a dependable support system can make life feel like an endless sequence of small problems that need to be solved independently. Over time, constantly managing these responsibilities can affect a person's lifestyle and leave them with less time, energy and freedom.

He also stressed that social media can create a misleading picture of life abroad. While photographs may make everything appear exciting and successful, the reality behind those images can be considerably more complicated. Reflecting on Indians living overseas, Vinod said their struggles should not necessarily be viewed as failure. Instead, many are simply trying to survive and adapt to an unfamiliar environment.

Final takeaway

Vinod concluded that securing a job or degree abroad does not automatically guarantee a better life. According to him, relocating overseas also demands courage, resilience, strength and practical life skills. People may additionally encounter criticism, rejection or hostility without an obvious reason, making emotional preparedness just as important as professional qualifications.