There are a number of diaries on the H1-B program and its impacts. Let's talk about the other side of the coin - what it is like for a US citizen to try to get an overseas job.
I made this comment on this diary:
All I can say is that I can tell you
NO ONE in the EU will even look at hiring a US citizen today. I have made it to the final round in two different positions only to be told "our client says they cannot sponsor any visas in the current job environment".
The job postings in my business space continuously read "Do not apply if you do not CURRENTLY hold working papers for _" and it is the EU and EU allied countries.
Such much for a "global" economy.
The story below:
I have been very active in the green space for the last five years - ethanol, biofuels, solar, wind, electricity demand side management and energy efficiency. I was under consideration for a senior consulting role when I was told the following story.
I was in the final cut for a senior strategy job in the green space. The client had made very nice noises and I had been told by the recruiter that my background fit their requirements perfectly. Time for me to get this email:
Here is where we are. The organization will not move forward with any candidate who requires a Visa. The issue is the UK Government and the Economy across all of Europe. We have pushed this with the client until they gave us a - flat no. This was not the case when we initiated the search, but the climate has changed
I belong to LinkedIn - a professional networking site that posts jobs in community groups.
Here are the conditions on a number of the postings out there:
Energy & renewable energy consultants required for the UK and Europe
Number of excellent opportunities available with leading Energy consultancy. from consultant to principal level.
Sorry but only those with EU working visa should apply
All I am asking for is either treat everyone the same or we adopt the same rules.