Hi Chewie. I can't comment on your right (or otherwise) to work in Europe.
However, I hope that the following points may help:
1 I don't think that you have much chance with any airline-sponsorship deal. The normal cut-off age is 28 and is sometimes lower.
2 Even after full conversion to JAA licences (and maybe even paying for a type-rating) you will most likely find yourself in a very long queue.
3 I don't believe that your nationality would necessarily hold you back but there are many hundreds (maybe thousands) of jobseekers on this side and many have been hunting since early 2006 - perhaps longer.
4 I suggest that you think very carefully about paying for a type-rating. A TR without line experience is of limited value and many airlines prefer TRs to be conducted by an organisation that they have an arrangement with.
I'm genuinely sorry if this seems negative but wish you all the very best nevertheless.
Best regards bm
