Forget the US. Two friends, each of whom are married to US citizens, have been trying for over 4 years to get "Green cards". Apparently since 9/11, anyone applying for a green card who has employment history as a pilot is considered very suspect. One of these guys (a Canadian) spent over US$15k before giving up and returning to Canada.
From what I can see, the US is still suffering the after-effects of 9/11 in the airline industry, and lots of US pilots are seeking opportunities in Asia.