I just completed a master's degree in business from Uppsala University in Sweden and want to work at a large international investment bank in the US. I don't have a US work permit and live in Sweden. How can I go about this?
It's possible to come to the US as a foreigner and work, but it's not an easy process by any means. Having an advanced degree may be a point in your favor, but it doesn't guarantee that you'll get the permit you desire. Your best bet is to find a company willing to sponsor you and help you obtain the papers you need.
If you can't locate an employer to help you before moving, you'll likely need to have an Employment Authorization Document to prove you can work in the US. Every employer is legally required to be sure job candidates have the proper papers before they can hire them. You don't say if you wish to live in the US on a permanent basis, but if that's the case, you'll need a permanent-residency visa or green card. The US has a lottery program for green cards, which allows 55,000 people each year to gain permanent residency. Check with the US Immigration Services for information on the different visas available. Also, consult with an attorney who specializes in immigration to be sure that you get the best advice.
For additional resources that may be of interest to you, check out "U.S. Immigration Made Easy" (Nolo Press, 2002) by Laurence Canter and Martha Siegel and "How to Get a Green Card: Legal Ways to Stay in the USA" (Nolo Press, 2001) by Loida Nicolas Lewis and Len Madlansacay. The first book contains 40 tear-out application forms and directories of US embassies, consulates and offices of the Immigration and Naturalization Services and the Department of Labor. The second contains the 24 latest INS forms and addresses and fax numbers of the INS and Department of Labor.