u/Any-Resident2881

I have around 9 years of experience as a software engineer, with my entire career spent at well-known MNCs.

Lately, I’ve been seriously considering exploring opportunities abroad and would love some guidance from people who’ve made a similar move.

I’m not very inclined toward the US because of the visa uncertainties and overall complexity involved. Right now, I’m more interested in options like Europe, Singapore, Dubai/UAE, etc.

A few things I’d love advice on:

- Which countries are currently the most feasible for experienced software engineers to relocate to?

- Which locations have a good balance of job opportunities, visa sponsorship, compensation, quality of life, and long-term stability?

- What’s the best strategy to search for jobs in these countries?

- Are there specific companies that actively hire experienced engineers from India and sponsor relocation?

- Any tips on networking, recruiters, LinkedIn strategy, referrals, or job portals that actually work?

Would really appreciate insights from people who’ve gone through this journey or are currently working abroad.

Thanks in advance!

I’m a software engineer with ~9 years of experience. I recently switched to a well-known MNC and, on paper, things are going great — good salary, good perks.

But internally, it’s a very different story.

I’ve been feeling a constant sense of emptiness. I don’t feel motivated to work, and every day feels like a cycle of competing with others and worrying about being judged. Getting fired, Layoff. It’s mentally exhausting.

I keep getting this urge to just quit and take a break. But the problem is, I’m not financially independent enough yet to do that without stress.

What makes it harder is:

I don’t know what I’d do if I quit

I don’t have a backup plan or passion I want to pursue

I’m unsure if this is just burnout or something deeper

So I feel stuck — continuing in something that drains me, but not having clarity or security to step away.

Has anyone else gone through something similar?

How did you deal with this phase?

Did taking a break help, or did you find ways to cope while continuing?

How do you figure out what you actually want to do next?

Would really appreciate hearing your experiences.