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.
That sucks. Did you get your EU blue card yet? How much time do you have before you must leave? Apply to other EU countries. It will be much easier if you have a valid blue card. Berlin would be a good option for English speakers. Hard to find housing but a problem for another day as I suspect you need a job ASAP I am guessing.
I have an EU Blue Card but was informed that since I did not complete a full 2 years of employment under my original employer, regardless of circumstance (voluntary or involuntary), I’d have to restart the process with my next employer and re-apply for the blue card with up to date employer info