Moving from the UK to the US
I am currently in the last year of high school and going to start university at a top target in the UK. I would want to intern in the US in the summer of the my second year, so wanted to ask if any of you have seen that happen and if so, how? The goal is to hopefully convert that summer and just move to the US immediately after university finishes, is that possible or is there another route I should focus on?
I am not an American citizen nor do I have a visa of any kind as of yet.
Based on the most helpful WSO content, moving from the UK to the US for internships, especially in fields like investment banking or finance, is indeed a path some students pursue. However, it's important to note that securing an internship in the US as a non-American citizen without a visa can be challenging due to the need for work authorization. Here are some steps and considerations based on similar discussions:
Networking: Start building connections with professionals in the US through LinkedIn, alumni networks of your university, and any finance-related events or webinars. Networking is crucial in the finance industry and can sometimes lead to referrals or advice on navigating the visa process.
Applying to Global Firms: Focus on applying to large, global firms that have offices both in the UK and the US. These firms are more likely to have the resources and experience in transferring interns or new hires between countries. Some may even offer internships specifically designed for students from international campuses.
Visa Considerations: For internships in the US, you would typically need a J-1 visa, which is for educational and cultural exchange programs, including internships. This requires sponsorship from either the hiring company or a designated sponsor organization. It's essential to research and understand the visa process early on, as it can be quite complex and time-consuming.
Summer Programs and Competitions: Participate in summer programs, case competitions, or finance-related events that involve travel or exposure to the US market. These can sometimes offer a backdoor into internships or at least valuable networking opportunities.
Graduate Studies: Another route some take is applying for a Master's program in the US after completing their undergraduate degree in the UK. This can provide a more straightforward path to internships and employment in the US, as you'll be studying there and will have access to on-campus recruiting.
Seek Advice: Reach out to career services at your university and ask for advice or contacts. They might have partnerships with universities or organizations in the US that could facilitate internships or study abroad opportunities.
Remember, while it's possible to secure an internship in the US and eventually move there for work, it requires early planning, persistence, and a proactive approach to networking and applications. Also, keep in mind the importance of understanding visa requirements and restrictions.
Sources: Stay for recruiting or study abroad in junior spring?, International Student - Chance of getting an IBD internship in London?, Should I Slow Down?, My Four Year Plan, Pros and Cons of internships abroad
Unfortunately, you have basically no chance of being able to do this. I considered doing it myself and learnt very quickly that it is impossible.
There are more than enough qualified candidates already in the US- especially for NYC and it is not worth the effort for banks to recruit internationally and have to sponsor your visa process.
Secondly, recruiting in the US is much more networking focused than in London/Europe and not being physically present in the US while recruiting will be a disadvantage.
There is a tiny chance if you know someone senior based out of a US bank (Senior MD+) but it is still highly unlikely. Much better chances for recruiting in London and then trying to transition internally (although there are other problems that come with that).
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