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If you're seeking sponsorship from an employer, the status you'll be able to get with the least amount of hassle is H-1B ('specialized worker'...which basically means anyone who can do a job that requires some experience or qualification). Green Cards take longer to get and the process is lengthier (and, since lawyers will usually need to be involved for either process, more expensive). You can transfer from a H-1B to a Green Card anyway, and H-1B status can last up to six years.
If your current employer has a significant US presence, they probably place employees on expatriate assignment fairly regularly and should be able to take care of most of the shit work without your even having to pay that much attention. If you do have to get your own lawyer though, expect to pay anywhere between $1,000 and $4,000 in fees. Trying to do all the paperwork by yourself is theoretically possible, but not advisable.
General employment info: http://uscis.gov/graphics/services/residency/employment.htm
Green Card info: http://uscis.gov/graphics/services/residency/index.htm
H-1B FAQ: http://uscis.gov/graphics/howdoi/h1b.htm
As a European living and working in the US for the last seven years I have to say that I have had far fewer problems getting visas and work authorization than Americans I know living and working in Europe experienced going the other way. You sometimes feel a little marginalized (esp. when travelling, filing your taxes as a 'non-resident alien' and at election time) but the US visa system is comparatively open and equitable. If you think you'd like to live and work here for a while I definitely recommend giving it a try. |
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