Stuck between doing MS abroad (Fall 2026) vs switching jobs in India - need advice from people who've been there

Hey everyone, I'm at a major crossroads and could really use some perspective from folks who've navigated this decision.

My situation:

• 2+ YOE as a Software Engineer at a reputed company in India
• Current CTC: 14 LPA
• GRE & IELTS done, SOP ready

The dilemma:

I was all set to apply for MS in CS in the US for Fall 2026, but honestly, the whole Trump situation and anti-immigration sentiment has me spooked. The uncertainty around H1B visas (like that $100k fee proposal), plus taking 30-40L in loans only to have my life dependent on policy decisions overnight - that stress is just not something I can handle.

So now I'm looking at Plan A: MS in Ireland, Australia, or Germany (leaning towards Ireland/Australia). Get international exposure, work there for 5-10 years, then maybe return. By Fall 2026, I'll have 3 YOE.

Or Plan B: Completely drop MS plans, focus on switching jobs in India. Grind DSA, prep for interviews, switch companies in 6 months, get a solid hike, and build a career here. Maybe land at a company that sends me abroad eventually.

My concern: If I try doing both simultaneously (prep for job switch + MS apps), I feel like I won't give 100% to either. I want to pick ONE path and go all in.

What I want: International exposure, living/working abroad for several years. But the current job market for CS + anti-immigration sentiment everywhere has me second-guessing if this is even the right time for MS.

For those who've done MS abroad or faced similar decisions:

• Is it worth doing MS in Ireland/Australia/Germany in the current climate?
• Or should I just focus on climbing the ladder in India and maybe explore foreign opportunities later through work?
• If you were in my position (2 YOE, 14 LPA, decent savings but need loans for MS), what would you do?

Really appreciate any insights. Feeling pretty confused about which path to commit to.