I recently applied for a Java Systems Developers position for the feds (I.T. Specialist, GS-11/12/13). Amazingly, with ONLY 2 years of Java dveelopment experience I was the ONLY qualified applicant. They got a dozen apps. The HR person told me that many of them were NOT U.S. citizens. Also, the fact that I was a veteran helped too. Wow! Considering I was unemployed for a while, plus rejected from many other positions, the feds wanted me. Since 9-11, the feds have been more careful in their screening for folks. Incidentally, this was a NON-DEFENSE-related position. Sadly, I know many of you out there are either H-1 or some other visa. I hope the best for you.