Its just a system, neither fair nor unfair. Designed with certain interests in my mind.<p>As a good software engineer you can live pretty much anywhere in world, either live with the consequences of accepting US system or move somewhere else.  Over time it will get better but complaining that its not fair will not solve it.<p>For your mistakes, don&#x27;t blame the employer. If you disclose them your needs they will take advantage. Also you were not a bonded labour while at your big financial firm you could have applied to other position and get better offers.