Should I ask about visa sponsorship during informational interviews?

I have a few phone calls lined up for next week, and I was wondering how appropriate (or rather, inappropriate) it is to ask if the firm sponsors international students. I am a STEM major and thus have opt extension for up to three years. Should I bring this topic up on my phone call?

Thanks

3 Comments
 
Best Response

If they ask whether you are legally allowed to live/work in the US - the answer from your end (due to STEM) should be YES.

If they ask whether you need any Visa sponsorship now OR IN THE FUTURE you might get into a tricky situation... because when STEM runs out you'd need sponsorship. Here I would also try to avoid the "no" and say "...that you are allowed to live and work in the US for any employer" (with the exception of govt. jobs or classified roles that require clearance)

It is in your own interest to find out about the ability or willingness of an employer to sponsor H1bs & GCs. There are employers out there who don't believe in sponsoring and never do it. Avoid them. STEM is your potential ticket to a H1b, a GC and ultimately citizenship - you shouldn't waste this opportunity for employers who don't believe in these values.

 

Hi, thank you so much for your response. My phone call next week is with alumnus and is supposed to be more causal. Do you think it would be appropriate for me to ask whether her firm (BB) sponsors h1b ? Should I mention that I am an international student without greencard but at the same time say that I am a STEM major and thus qualify for work in the US? Or should I just avoid the conversation at all?

Once again, thanks a lot for your input!

 

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