I think it's like that in a lot of places. My friend is trying to become a citizen of the US. He's lived here for almost six years now, having gone to college here and been working here since. In order to continue getting his citizenship, he had to get a work visa instead of a student visa, and in order to get a work visa he had to find a full time job with a company that would hire him under contract for a minimum of three years. Seems a little harsh that people like me who were born here can change jobs or take a few months off as we please, but he had to guarantee himself full time employment for three years or more.
Good luck with your move!