Stay in India with a 55 LPA base or move to Germany for €80k
I'm stuck deciding whether to stay or switch.
Right now I'm on a 55 LPA package in India.
I've got an offer from a good start‑up in Berlin – €80k plus relocation.
I'm not sure what to do. I was happy before I applied, but after getting the offer it feels a bit low.
My main reason for applying was better quality of life and a safer environment for women.
I've never even set foot outside India, let alone worked abroad.
I'm in the same boat. The language barrier and a possible career downgrade are my main concerns, plus I'd lose the benefits India offers. On the plus side, India gives great work‑life balance, almost no pollution, no traffic jams, easy travel to other countries, and a friend who moved to Germany years ago is happy and even found her partner there. So there are pros, but for the first 1‑2 years it might feel like a step back. You're still young, so it could be a good time to move. Someone said India is for rich people – there's some truth to that.
Factor in tax, rent and health insurance in Germany – it's not as huge as it looks, and the better quality of life and safety win out.
Take the Germany job and thank me later.
India is best for rich people
Leave. Come back to this comment after 2 years and thank me.
We don't know your age or other details, but go for it – especially since it's Berlin. Everyone should experience life in a developed country at least once. The salary might not match what you earn now, but the experience will definitely be worth it.
55 LPA is a great package. €80k is relatively low for Germany, especially compared to the lifestyle you can enjoy in India with your current pay. Taxes are high there. So, with this income, I'd suggest you stay – unless you really want to experience Western culture or plan to settle in Europe permanently. Keep in mind that Germany can be tough: English isn't spoken everywhere and loneliness can be a big factor.
You have your whole life ahead of you in India. For now, take the offer and see what life brings. You can always come back later.
Getmany, if you tell your kids you turned down this chance just to stay in India for the maids and Zomato, they might never visit you in your old age.
It's a big downgrade, honestly. Unlike India, salaries in Europe don't jump quickly. Talk to people actually living in Germany or senior colleagues, not random Reddit users telling you to toss a 55 LPA package for some nice German roads. Consider going abroad on a short‑term expat assignment from your current company, or wait for a better offer. This one isn't it. I live in Switzerland, and that's what I'd tell my best friend. Use your money now to travel Europe – solo trips, group tours, etc.
Edit: Speak to people at your level, not someone who would probably earn only 20 LPA in India.