A recent study published in the International Journal of Migration and Integration (IJMI) has shed light on the employment challenges faced by Gulf returnees in Kerala. Conducted by researchers from Mar Ivanios College and the University of Kerala, the study offers a first-of-its-kind evaluation of how returnees reintegrate into the job market.

The research identifies a worrying trend: despite possessing valuable skills and international work experience, returnees often struggle to secure stable employment in Kerala. This is primarily due to skill mismatches, bureaucratic hurdles, financial instability, and inadequate support structures. The study calls for urgent policy reforms to enhance the employability of return migrants and prevent a cycle of re-migration.

Why is reintegration so difficult?
For many Gulf returnees, coming back to Kerala is far more challenging than expected. While they return with expertise in various sectors, their skills often do not align with local job market demands. As a result, many find themselves underemployed or forced into unrelated professions.

Additionally, financial instability forces returnees to prioritise immediate income over long-term career growth. Many are burdened with debts accumulated during their time abroad or family responsibilities such as elderly care and education expenses. These pressures often lead them to accept low-paying jobs, creating frustration and dissatisfaction.

Government red tape adds another layer of difficulty. Bureaucratic delays in accessing financial aid, a lack of structured reintegration programs, and limited opportunities for skill adaptation make it harder for returnees to restart their careers.

How does the reason for return affect employability?
The study highlights that the circumstances of a returnee’s migration impact their job prospects. Those who return voluntarily—motivated by family ties, investment opportunities, or a desire to settle in Kerala—tend to adapt better. Their proactive approach to reintegration, such as financial planning and skill upgrades, gives them an advantage in the domestic job market.

On the other hand, those who return due to job losses, economic downturns, or other unfavourable conditions in the Gulf struggle more. Their return is often abrupt and unplanned, leaving them financially and professionally vulnerable. The COVID-19 pandemic amplified these challenges, forcing thousands to return without job security or savings.

What role does preparedness play?
A key finding of the study is that return preparedness makes a major difference in employability outcomes. Returnees who had assessed their financial standing, planned their career transitions, and maintained professional networks fared much better in securing jobs or starting businesses.

However, the study found that most Gulf returnees do not plan their return strategically. Instead, they return due to crises rather than opportunities. This reactive approach leaves them unprepared for the realities of the Kerala job market, making reintegration more difficult.

According to Dr Biju AV, one of the study’s authors, better planning and institutional support are essential for successful reintegration. “Creating structured reintegration programs for returnees, including incentives for businesses started by returnees, can instil confidence in local job markets,” he said. He also noted that Kerala’s move towards private universities could help retain students and attract returning professionals by aligning academic offerings with global industry standards.

Could returnees be job creators instead?
Despite the challenges, the study highlights the entrepreneurial potential of Gulf returnees. With the right support, returnees could contribute to Kerala’s economy by setting up businesses, leveraging their international experience, and creating jobs. However, skill mismatch, bureaucratic roadblocks, and limited institutional support often prevent them from successfully launching ventures.

Experts argue that Kerala’s government should invest in structured reintegration programs, including incentives for returnee-led businesses, skill development initiatives, and financial assistance. Such policies could not only improve the employment prospects of returnees but also curb youth migration by creating attractive job opportunities within the state.

What needs to change?
The study underscores the need for a long-term, structured approach to reintegration. It calls for:

  • Pre-departure financial and career planning programs to ensure returnees are better prepared.
  • Private sector-friendly policies to create high-skill job opportunities within Kerala.
  • Government-backed reintegration initiatives, including skill adaptation courses and financial aid for returnee entrepreneurs.
  • Psychological and social support to help returnees navigate the emotional and financial stress of reintegration.

What’s the bigger picture?
If properly managed, return migration could be an asset rather than a liability for Kerala. By harnessing the skills, experiences, and networks of Gulf returnees, the state can boost economic growth, reduce brain drain, and create a more dynamic workforce. However, without strategic interventions, many returnees will continue to face unemployment or consider re-migration as their only viable option.

The study’s findings offer a clear message: Kerala must act now to transform the challenges of return migration into an opportunity for sustainable development.

About the study

The  study is authored by Chinnu Thomas, Dr Biju AV and Dr Ratheesh R.It used purposive and snowball sampling methods to survey 400 returnees across five key Kerala districts: Malappuram, Kozhikode, Kannur, Thrissur, and Thiruvananthapuram. The research assessed factors such as push-pull dynamics, home country conditions, return preparedness, and personal constraints to understand the varied experiences of emigrant Gulf returnees. The data collection took place from December 2021 to March 2023 through field surveys and in-depth interviews, offering critical insights into the reintegration process.