Kunal Bahl, Snapdeal co-founder, shared his 2007 H-1B visa rejection as a turning point that led him to co-found a major Indian e-commerce platform.

Snapdeal co-founder Kunal Bahl shared on September 20, 2025, that he was rejected for an H-1B visa in 2007 while working at Microsoft, calling the moment “crushing” but ultimately life-changing, as it led him to return to India and launch his entrepreneurial journey. His post, prompted by a new U.S. policy raising H-1B fees to $100,000, resonated widely, sparking discussion on how immigration setbacks can lead to unexpected opportunities. Bahl urged affected individuals to stay hopeful, highlighting how such challenges may redirect talent toward growing tech ecosystems, particularly in India. The policy change has raised concerns about the U.S. losing its appeal to global professionals, with industry leaders like Radhika Gupta encouraging Indian students to consider opportunities at home.