Chocks,
Try the gleim website.
http://www.gleim.com.
I think you can actually sign up for the course and take the test thru the website, at least that's how I renewed my CFI last time.
I believe you can convert your license as it is to an FAA CPL, but until you take the CPL written, (see above para) you can't work for hire.
To get a visa to work, check out some of the schools (ie-back pages of Flying). If you sign up for their courses, usually they can get you an M-2 or whatever type visa that will let you work for 2 yrs. (total time in the US is 2 yrs.) This is based on the theory that you will stay long enough to get your ATP.
The school you get your CFI at will usually let you stay on and teach, tow banners, ferry a/c, sightseeing flts, etc. The CFI pay in the states suc*s, but it beats starving in Europe. At least you'll build a lot of hours.
Good Luck.