I (US Citizen) took a job with a reputable organization in France that sponsored my visa. I have a spouse, kids, and 3 pets (pets alone cost $6k to relocate). We sold our belongings in the US and had all just begun to really adjust. However I was notified last week that my employer is actually getting rid of an entire segment of their business which includes my job.
My employment contract does not contain any job loss protections outside of my trial period which was 3 months, which they had originally specified verbally is standard in France and would only end if I failed to pick up on the job.
I realize I have no legal protections as it was my naiveté to not pursue additional contract language regarding job loss during the trial period. I just never imagined this.
I’ve applied to over 50 jobs in a week and have already recieved rejections for most, as most employers won’t sponsor visas for whatever reason.
Not sure the purpose of the post but to say that when relocating, please protect yourself and truly realize how much you’re putting on the line by accepting a job abroad. My husband has not found work either in France so we’re at the point of having to go back to the US, pay all of the travel costs to do so, and have nothing there for us.
My fear of this happening to me is why I’ve moved to start my own thing and get abroad that way.
The interview process showed me companies weren’t as stable as their hiring process appeared…
So sorry this has happened, but hopefully the fact you’re already there and have shown your hard work to get there, is something another company can (quickly) recognize and bring you on for.
Try expat groups in different countries and share your story and ask if anyone has work connections in your field. Facebook, while taken over by boomers, is still useful for this.
Hope it’s just a roadbump and nothing more!