Ask HN: Is moving to Luxembourg from India for salary of €87k a wise decision?

6 points by thatgloomyguy 2 years ago | 7 comments

Hi HN,

I'm a full-stack developer in an IC4 role at a US company in Bangalore, India. In the past, I've attempted to relocate to the US through H1B visas, but my company has shifted its strategy to outsourcing to India instead. Recently, I received a job offer from Luxembourg with a salary range of €80k-90k, and HR hinted they might approve €87k, plus a relocation package (details to be shared later).

I earn the equivalent of €50k a year here in Bangalore. I've never worked outside my country before, and while personal reasons are prompting me to consider this move, I'm trying to figure out if it will be financially worthwhile. Given the higher cost of living in Luxembourg, I'm particularly interested in understanding potential savings. My wife, who also works in IT, also plans to join me after a year.

Would appreciate insights on the following:

The cost of living in Luxembourg vs. Bangalore.

Realistic savings potential on an €87k salary.

Experiences of others who have made similar moves.

Are there ample job opportunities for developers in Luxembourg?

Thanks for any advice or personal experiences you can share!

hilux 2 years ago |

€87k in Luxembourg seems much lower, on a PPP basis, than €50k in Bangalore. Hard to believe this job is leveled the same. You wouldn't make this move for the annual saving in the short term, unless the company is going to pay for your housing.

However, this new job could be a springboard for "permanent" migration to the EU or the US - is that a goal for you?

Or, if moving isn't a long-term goal, do you think that the Luxembourg stint would serve you well upon your return to India?

thatgloomyguy 2 years ago | |

Yes, I am considering permanent migration to the EU and potentially the US. However, I'm uncertain how relocating to the EU might facilitate a future move to the US. Locally, I've observed peers with similar experience relocating to the US or EU through visa sponsorship, earning significantly and often not planning to return. I've also interviewed with German companies, but their salary offers are comparable or lower than this. After years of seeking opportunities for international relocation, my family is keen on moving abroad. I also believe that returning from Luxembourg might not substantially enhance my career prospects in India.

getwiththeprog 2 years ago | | |

The food is better in India.

nabla9 2 years ago |

If you have, or plan to have children, €90k in Luxembourg is probably worth at least $150 in the US.

Luxembourg is very expat friendly first destination in EU. You get much more than €87k if you move to Luxembourg and settle there.

Free high quality public primary schools. Before starting primary school at 6, children in Luxembourg attend early education and preschool. Ages 0-4: non-compulsory crèche, mini-crèche or childcare. Age 3: pre-primary education starts, but is not compulsory. Age 4–5: Children begin compulsory preschool at an elementary school.

Healthcare system on Luxembourg is top notch, maybe best in the Europe.

Company pensions to expat employees are very common, are you getting one? You become eligible other pensions only after 10 years of payments.

Nextgrid 2 years ago |

For this particular salary, no.

For a gateway to other jobs/freelance gigs, yes. Being based in the EU puts you at a significant advantage over your India-based peers when it comes to applying for jobs.

Similarly it could be a route to permanent immigration into the EU down the line.

neximo64 2 years ago |

Are you moving for the salary?

thatgloomyguy 2 years ago | |

That is also one concern.