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.
Do you see any of this changing with the election? My husband and I just visited and were so excited to behind our search. Now we’re concerned with the rise in anti-immigrant sentiment and proposed plans to cut sponsorship. We don’t know what to do anymore :(
No I don’t. The anti immigration sentiment is aimed at refugees and low skilled workers. Any job requiring visa sponsorship from an employer is good for the economy and the country. Big business needs these people and any coalition formed will ensure this channel stays open.
Having said that, I wouldn’t be surprised if they cut the 30% tax break/incentive for skilled migrants. As well as upping the visa requirements. But this shouldn’t deter you.
Thank you!
Keep an eye on it. Wilders still needs a coalition to govern and it’s unclear he’ll get enough support. In the event he doesn’t there will be another election. The 30% ruling changes will most likely go into effect next year, make sure you research that.
I’m going to disagree and say there is animosity towards highly skilled workers although far less so than that towards migrants/refugees. We are being blamed for the housing crisis and cost of higher education (when they are actually the fault of the government having an inability to look to the future). There’s also bullying international kids by Dutch kids something to think about if you have kids. There have been so many teens fighting the police have gotten involved. That said it is generally a wonderful place to live but not the utopia you might have seen in your visit.