Imagine a guy from Adelaide, Australia, who, after a brief US trip, wondered, "Is this my life forever?" That's how Josh Pugh's journey began. In 2017, he landed in snowy New York, and now, nearly a decade later, he's an iconic figure for Aussies in the Big Apple and across the US. Known as "America Josh," his online presence and events have become a lifeline for newcomers, a treasure trove for those considering the move, and a comfort for expats.
We meet at La Sandwicherie, an Upper East Side gem, where Josh shares his story. He talks about the initial excitement of New York, a city that never sleeps, and how it can be overwhelming for newcomers. "It's like a non-stop party. You have to learn to say no sometimes," he says.
Josh's work often involves navigating the complex world of immigration, visas, and taxation. The Trump administration's policies created chaos, especially for visa renewals. Australians, with their unique E-3 visa, were spared the worst, but the uncertainty caused anxiety. Josh stepped in, organizing webinars to provide clarity and reassurance.
"I've seen this before. There's always a way," he says confidently.
President Trump also introduced a $153,000 fee for new H1-B visas, primarily used by tech companies to hire foreign talent. The E-3, a product of the US-Australia free trade deal, remains unaffected, and Josh believes it's this visa that has allowed Australians to make such an impact in New York and the US.
Josh's love for New York is evident, but he also acknowledges the challenges. "It's a sweaty, dirty place that can be tough. It's not always what you expect," he says, comparing it to "Paris syndrome," where reality doesn't match the fairytale image.
After eight years, Josh and his wife, Stacey, moved across the Hudson River to Jersey City, a 20-minute train ride from Manhattan. It's a change of pace, and Josh is adjusting well. "We come into the city now, instead of being constantly bombarded by it."
In a significant move, Josh also became an American citizen. He still identifies as Australian, but now he has two homes.
"America Josh" has become more than just a side project; it's a community, and Josh wants to turn it into a full-time gig. His work helps Aussies navigate the complexities of life in the US, and his events bring people together.
"It's about building connections and community. That's what makes the difference," Josh says.
And that's the story of how a bloke from Adelaide became an iconic figure for Australians in New York.
