The good news is that you won the diversity visa lottery and are eligible to immigrate to the United States. The bad news is that there’s work to do. If that work isn’t done correctly, you may not be able to immigrate. If it’s not done in a timely manner, your “spot” may be taken by someone else, because the number of lottery winners is greater than the number of immigrants the US admits in the end.
After good luck, only good planning can prevent bad luck. You can contact me, Boston immigration attorney Giselle M. Rodriguez, to help you complete your diversity visa lottery application and complete your journey to the United States.
What countries are eligible for the Diversity Immigrant Visa Program?
In general, natives of countries with low numbers of immigrants to the US are eligible. If you’re reading this, you are probably not only from one of the eligible countries, but also have won the diversity-visa lottery. In any case, this document from the State Department lists the eligible countries.
If you’ve won the diversity visa lottery, can you petition for a spouse or child to immigrate to the US, too?
Yes. A diversity-visa lottery winner who later applies for and is granted a green card can petition for a spouse, fiance(e), or child, or possibly other family member to immigrate also.
In the case of a marriage, if both spouses are eligible to apply, both spouses can apply. That increases your chances of a winning number. Then, if one spouse is selected, he or she can petition for the other to come to the US. Same-sex couples also are eligible in the same way, as long as the marriage is recognized by their native country.
Can diversity visa lottery winners apply for a green card from inside or outside of the US?
Yes. If you’re outside of the US and have a winning number, you must apply through the consulate (and therefore the State Department) to get your green card. If you’re already living in the US (likely here on a nonimmigrant visa), you’ll apply for an adjustment of status through USCIS.
What are common mistakes on the diversity visa application?
- Typos, incorrect, or incomplete info on the form.
- Lack of evidence.
- Not having legal help lined up as soon as the “winners” are announced, which is typically done in late September.
- Acting too slowly. Because the US ultimately admits fewer diversity-visa immigrants than it gives winning lottery numbers, a slow or improperly completed application may mean that you have missed your chance.
How can an immigration attorney help with the diversity visa application?
Whether you’re in the US or abroad, I can help you throughout the process, including by:
- Confirming your eligibility and (if applicable) your spouse’s or child’s eligibility.
- Guiding you through consular processing, if you’re abroad.
- Gathering the necessary evidence that the State Department or USCIS asks you to provide with your application.
- Helping you prepare for your USCIS interview, if applicable.
- Navigating complexities of your case.
Next step: schedule a consultation
Now that most of the waiting is done, I can help you take full advantage of your good fortune. I’ve helped many immigrants, their spouses, and their families immigrate to the US, most of whom choose to live and work here in the Boston area. Contact my office to discuss your situation and goals.