I'm literally looking into it this month, currently sitting in LA trying to find an attorney that specialises in it. Whilst some that have made the transition (not necessarily designers) claim marriage as the easiest/only approach, there are options for creatives as long as your recognised in your field.

One place I came across that has potential is - http://www.o-1artistvisa.com/

But yeah, if anyone has successfully done it as a designer I'd love to hear their advice or thoughts.

That's not really advice though to be honest, can you imagine if your boss/manager/creative director said that? It would be the most unconstructive feedback ever!

I've been using freeagent for the past few months, works really well - http://fre.ag/42payixd

Pretty much use everything yes, minus the estimates section. Started out unsure how much I'd use it in general, but now it solves so many issues I had, I can't live without it!

Contracts - manual indesign template

Invoices, Payment - Freeagent

Discussion with clients - Email/Skype

fonts, yes, but pretty much everything else I'll source or make myself for free.

I agree, currently shopping around for an immigration attorney. Made the mistake of contacting attorneys whilst in NYC, so was getting quotes of up to $15k!

definately - cheers!

The 3-month thing is what I've done for a while now, just quite restrictive. Do you know how long you'd have to return to the UK for before going back? 20 minutes? ;)

Thanks!