flynhigh,
H-1B specialty occupation work permit would be tricky also, as there is an annual quota set by Congress (the number of permits per year is a dynamic number, ranging from 50k to 140k+, all dependent on how Congress votes on the subject) AND there is a mad race to have your petition submitted by the end of the set deadline for the year. On more than one occasion the quota has been met within hours of the application window opening. If you are left out, you may not resubmit until the following year's application window opens.
After all that, the permit is for 3 years, after which it is possible to extend it for another 3 years (not a guaranteed approval). Then, after 6 years of work, you're out, no if's or but's. You must leave the country and can return under the H-1B status only after a year.
All in all, too many potholes for CX to stumble on if you ask me.