Green card process for international hires at MBB

Question

Hello All,

I recently graduated with a STEM PhD from a reputed U.S. university. I'm currently an engineer at a large semiconductor firm and my employer sponsors H-1B visa. Being with this employer also provides the most efficient path to obtaining a green card (~3-4 years after submitting application).

I want to transition to management consulting at MBB, but I have a few timeline/immigration-related concerns. Sorry if these have been asked before, but I'd be grateful if you could share your thoughts based on prior experience at MBB and/or know of friends who went through the immigration process at these firms:

1) Do MBB apply for a green card? If yes, at what level do they support this (e.g., senior consultant, engagement manager)?

2) Due to the immeasurable benefits of a green card and the added industry experience I build as I wait for the card for ~3-4 years, I should probably transition to consulting only after I obtain it. Some international ex-employees of my firm have transitioned after a few years and my guess is that they had the green card when they did it. However, if get an offer at that time, will I still enter at the associate consultant level?

Thank you for your inputs

Answer 1

Hi there,

First of all, best of luck to you - I really wish the US would make it easier for skilled immigrants to enter, though it sounds like you're on a great pathway already.

1) Do MBB apply for a green card? If yes, at what level do they support this (e.g., senior consultant, engagement manager)?

My understanding is yes they do. In terms of the exact process/conditions I highly recommend you speak to someone at these firms (HR/recruiting and/or LinkedIn networking)

2) Due to the immeasurable benefits of a green card and the added industry experience I build as I wait for the card for ~3-4 years, I should probably transition to consulting only after I obtain it. Some international ex-employees of my firm have transitioned after a few years and my guess is that they had the green card when they did it. However, if get an offer at that time, will I still enter at the associate consultant level?

Instead of guessing why don't you reach out and talk to them!

You would enter at the level that makes sense based on your level of experience. The level you enter at has nothing to do with whether you need a green card or not! It has to do with years of experience, MBA, historic roles/responsibilities etc.

Answer 2

Hi there,

Generally, MBB's have one of the best support services among all employer types when it comes to visas and immigration. So I wouldn't be too worried about it. As long as you get an offer, they take good care of you and have a vested interest to get you started as soon as possible.

Best,

Cristian

Answer 3

Hi there,

I would definitely suggest to reach out to the HR team and lay down all the specific questions and made clear it is important for you to decide if to stay/target such firm. I don't think we can answer this (despite that yes MBB is usually supportive), but HR definitely is.

Good luck,

Lucie

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