I LOST My Job and My Visa but Found A Better Opportunity in 3 Months

Feb 9

Imagine this: you’ve secured a sponsored job, settled into your career, and then—out of nowhere—you get laid off. Your visa is at risk, time is running out, and your future in the country is hanging by a thread.

This was the reality for Sophia Greenblat-Tal. She had built a career in public affairs—an industry where sponsorship is almost unheard of. And in the middle of her visa renewal process, she lost her job. With no safety net and 121 job applications later, she had to fight her way back.

And she did.

Turning a Part-Time Job into a Sponsored Role

Sponsorship isn’t always offered outright, but that doesn’t mean it’s impossible to secure. Sophia’s approach?

Ask for it – Many companies don’t consider sponsorship until a candidate makes a strong case for it. Don’t wait for an offer—initiate the conversation.
Be bold – Starting as a part-time employee can be a stepping stone. If an employer values your contributions, they may be willing to obtain a sponsorship license just for you.
Show them why it’s worth it – Prove your value first. Once an employer sees the impact of your work, they’re more likely to invest in keeping you.

Job Hunting on a Visa with Limited Time

With strict visa deadlines, every job application counts. Sophia tackled her search with a strategic mindset:

Treat it like a full-time job – Apply to at least three roles daily and actively connect with HR managers or potential contacts on LinkedIn.
Use every advantage – If still employed, negotiate garden leave to extend job search time. Request reimbursement for visa costs when possible.
Create a system – Build a list of potential employers hiring in your field using government websites and industry databases.
Expand opportunities – Look beyond job titles. Identify transferable skills and consider industries where they can be applied.

Applying to Multiple Jobs—What Works?

Be proactive – If a company doesn’t have an open role, reach out to HR anyway. Many job openings aren’t publicly advertised.
Be upfront – Discuss visa sponsorship early in the process to avoid wasting time, but not before demonstrating your value.
Be relentless – Job searching is a numbers game. Even after multiple rejections, all it takes is one yes.

The Winning Mentality

Beyond tactics and strategies, success in a high-stakes job search requires the right mindset.

Lean on a support system – Facing rejections alone is tough. Stay connected with friends, mentors, and industry contacts for encouragement.
Reframe rejection – Every “no” is a step closer to the right opportunity. Learn from each setback and adjust your approach.
Play to your strengths – Instead of seeing your background as a barrier, use it as an asset. Your diverse experiences bring unique value to employers.

No matter how impossible it seems, it can be done.

Sophia’s message? You deserve to be here. You are enough. Keep going.