I think you should stay in the US, keep the job you love and have your GF come work here too.

There are places you can go in the south that may offer you similar job advantages. Have you looked? One place I know always needs PA's is the VA hopital and other military sites. The pay is good. In fact, after a few years you probably won't be able to make anywhere near as much anywhere else. Job security is great and so are the benefits for PA's. One added advantage is that you get a real sense of pride working with our country's veterans and honoring them for their sacrifice. If you are a veteran yourself you have an advantage in getting hired. The government gives veterans priority. Think about it.