How Hard Is Finding a US Job After EU Studies?

• Visa Sponsorship Needed:

U.S. employers usually prefer candidates who already have the right to work in the U.S. (like citizens or green card holders).

As an EU graduate, you would need visa sponsorship (typically an H-1B visa), and many employers are hesitant because:

o Sponsorship costs money.

o There's uncertainty (H-1B is a lottery system).

o It’s a slower hiring process.

• No OPT Advantage:

Students who graduate from U.S. universities get OPT (Optional Practical Training) work rights — EU graduates do not.

So you don’t get that temporary work benefit unless you study again in the U.S.

• Competition:

You’ll be competing with U.S. graduates and existing workers who are already easier to hire.

What Can Make It Easier:

• Highly Specialized Skills:

If you are in tech (software engineering, AI, cybersecurity), finance, healthcare, or engineering, you have a better chance because these industries often hire internationally.

• Big Companies:

Global companies (Google, Amazon, Microsoft, Deloitte, etc.) are more willing to sponsor foreign workers, especially if you already interned or worked for them elsewhere.

• Networking:

Having strong personal or professional connections in the U.S. can lead to opportunities that don’t get publicly advertised.

• Further Study in the U.S.:

Some students complete a master's degree or certification course in the U.S. afterward to get OPT work rights.

Summary:

• Without a U.S. degree or U.S. work authorization, it’s hard.

• With the right skills, strong companies, and smart strategy, it’s possible — just highly competitive.