Canadian pilot desperate to leave
Hello everyone,
Long time lurker of the forum, but have never posted to it. As the title says, I am eager to leave Canada for greener pastures. My preference would be the United States, but I would consider Asia/Southeast Asia or the Middle East.
A little about myself. I have approximately 10,000 hours and have flown both Boeing and Airbus equipment, unfortunately only as SIC. I did upgrade on the Airbus pre-COVID, but only got about 100 hours in before the shutdown. I’ve flown everything in between. Floats, skis, tailwheel, survey, firefighting, high altitude, mountains, etc. I’ve lived on 4 of 7 continents and travelled extensively to them all so I’m no stranger to the world in which we live.
As previously mentioned, I would prefer the U.S. for a variety of reasons. I am willing to move anywhere. I am willing to work for anyone, including smaller operators if it would guarantee permanent residency after a couple years. Preferably, I could obtain a sponsorship by an airline but I am not the least bit picky about which one I work for… again, assuming it could lead to permanent residency. I have been in touch with law firms about the EB-2 NIW (Pilot) visa and they seem to think I would have a successful outcome. Yes, I understand they are selling a service, so are not in the business of discouraging potential clients. I do not yet have an FAA ATP, but will be getting it in the next couple months. I can use the law firm to apply for the visa for 10K or do it myself for 700 bucks. However, I figured no point until I get the ATP.
I am willing to work elsewhere but if that were the case, I would prefer rotation. I have a wife and two young children. I have 25 years left to work if I want to, so I’m not at the end of my career.
I know U.S. pilots don’t want the doors open for a bunch of foreigners. I know it will not be an easy thing to do. But is it possible? Has anyone here done it? Can anyone provide me with some information, pointers or insight on where to start or who may be willing to sponsor someone like myself? I am current on an Airbus right now and am currently employed, but am eager and even desperate to do something else.
PM’s are welcome.
Thank you.