Hi everyone,
My partner and I are both British, currently living in London, and weāre exploring options to relocate to California together. Iād really appreciate hearing from anyone whoās navigated a similar situation.
Our situation:
My partner is a Product Designer who has secured a role at a major technology company in California. His O-1 visa has been approved, and heās preparing to relocate.
Iām 30 and currently work in theatrical film marketing at a major Hollywood studioās London office. I have experience working on major international film releases, collaborating with US teams, and managing marketing campaigns for globally recognised franchises.
We initially thought an internal transfer might be the most straightforward route, given that my employer has a significant presence in Los Angeles.
However, HR has explained that US visa sponsorship is generally reserved for roles where the required skills are difficult to source locally. An L-1 transfer would also require support from both the UK and US businesses, with no guarantee of approval.
Iām not currently in a managerial position, although I understand that L-1B transfers can apply to employees with specialised knowledge. Ideally, Iād like to continue working in theatrical marketing at a similar level rather than taking a significant step backwards professionally.
The options weāre considering:
L-1B: An internal transfer through my current employer, although securing business support is proving difficult.
O-1: Exploring whether my experience working on major film campaigns could qualify me, potentially with additional industry recognition and supporting evidence.
H-1B: Applying to US employers willing to sponsor, although the lottery and sponsorship requirements present challenges.
F-1: Pursuing postgraduate education in California, although the cost and restrictions on employment make this less appealing.
O-3: If we were to marry, I could potentially accompany my partner as a dependent, but wouldnāt have permission to work.
Iāve also been applying for relevant marketing roles at entertainment and technology companies in California, but identifying employers open to sponsorship has been difficult.
A few questions:
Has anyone successfully secured an L-1B transfer despite initial reluctance from their employer? What helped make the business case?
Has anyone in film marketing, entertainment marketing or a similar field successfully obtained an O-1 visa? What evidence was most important?
Are there particular employers or sectors in California more open to sponsoring experienced international marketing professionals?
Has anyone been in a relationship where one partner held an O-1 and the other needed an independent route to employment?
Are there any alternative visa pathways we should be considering?
Weāre open to temporary long-distance arrangements if necessary, but our preference is to relocate together while both continuing our careers.
Weāre also seeking professional immigration advice, but Iād be particularly interested in hearing firsthand experiences and practical suggestions.
Thanks in advance for any advice!