How hard will it be to get clearance to live and work US?

Question

Hi all,
My girlfriend has recently got a job at senior manager level for the global branch of a large US company but is currently based in the uk. We are both uk residents. We have begun looking at moving abroad as her job can be based anywhere. I am the director of a small electrical contracting company and we have a young daughter. I know I will need different qualifications etc as an electrician. We believe her company are happy to help with sponsorship or anything else we may need. I would like to know how hard getting a visa/clearance will be for us to relocate, either Florida or california. I have researched a fair amount and some say it's easier than others. Any help or advice would be great. Thanks

Yak Rider · Accepted Answer

Mad Man is incorrect.

As the spouse (married) of an L-1 you would get an L-2.

http://faq.visapro.com/L2-Visa-FAQ2.asp#Q1

What privileges do I enjoy on L-2 visa?
 	 
 	On L-2 visa, you may:
 	 
 	
•   	 Reside in the U.S. for the duration of the L-1 visa holder's authorized duration of stay

•   	 If your are an L-2 Spouse you may work on a full-time basis in the U.S. with proper employment authorization from the USCIS

•   	 Engage in full-time study in the U.S.

•   	Travel in and out of the U.S. on short trips and return

MadMan · Answer

For her, she will need to be employed by the company outside of the US for 12 months but then it is a an easy visa, an L1, which is for company transfers.

You are a different situation.  As you are not married to her, you have zero standing under US immigration law.  And even if you do get married, you would not be able to work.

And it does not sound as though you have the correct qualifications to get a work visa on your own.  There are plenty of unemployed electricians in the US.  In general, you would need a degree at least for a work visa in the US.

emanwelgwent · Answer

It depends. If her company obtains a visa for her, she would be able to get her daughter in as a dependent, however, because you are unmarried, you would need to get a separate visa for yourself, which is extremely difficult and time consuming.  If you have sufficient funds you might be able to obtain an investment visa - either by setting up your own company there. You should really take advice from an Immigration lawyer familiar with US immigration law - it is far from straightforward.

Anonymous · Answer

Her company get a visa .. it will probably be an L visa 
unless you are married you will not be joining her

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How hard will it be to get clearance to live and work US?

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