Millions of people apply for US visas for jobs, education, and travel purposes. Other types of US visas can also lead to the issuance of US green cards. However, the diversity visa program provides a novel means of obtaining the green card. It is a government-sponsored lottery in which the winners receive green cards. The Green Card Lottery Program, also called the Diversity Visa Program, is run by the US Department of State. It gives up to 55,000 green cards to people from countries with very low immigration rates.
What next after winning the Green Card Lottery?
Winning the green card lottery is not the end of one’s tasks. It does not indicate that the applicant has won the visa; it is merely a random drawing.
1. Obtain a visa
The next step after winning the lottery is to act as quickly as possible to obtain the visa. This is because the visa must be obtained in the same year as the lottery win. The reason is that there are fewer visas than lottery winners. Hence the individual should apply for a visa before being left behind. This indicates that it is competitive.
2. Immigrant’s current location
The following stage after obtaining a visa depends on the immigrant’s current location. If someone is outside the United States, the person can apply at his or her own country’s embassy. The individual will submit Form DS-260 to the national visa center. After processing the form, the US Consular Office will receive the visa application and schedule an interview to determine visa eligibility.
However, if the applicant is in the United States, he/she will file Form I-485 to the USCIS. Applicants must begin working on the application after being advised that a visa is available. Afterward, applicants selected in the lottery must submit an application for a green card as quickly as feasible. This will take an additional 14 months to process the application. The applicant is then provided with an interview date.
How to find a host in the US after winning the Green Card Lottery?
People who get the Diversity Visa have always had difficulty finding a new place to live in the United States. Here are some ways you can use to find a host in the United States.
1. Social Media
Create a message or post announcing that you have been selected as a DV winner but are having trouble finding a host. You will be surprised that there are a number of people in the United States from your country who will be willing to host you.
2. Relatives
Even though it seems like the easiest option, relatives often take advantage of immigrants who don’t know any better when they stay with them. This is why many people begin their search for family members by contacting their friends.
3. Friends and friends of friends
Asking your friends to introduce you to their acquaintances in the United States is the finest alternative.
4. Networking
Connect with foreigners you meet at conferences and other locations to network and find a host. Learn more about their own nation and be extroverted. Before you can get permanent residency in the United States, you must follow several rules set by the federal government. The following are:
a. A petition from an employer
When you apply for a green card based on your job, you can choose from preference groups. Each preference category may contain several subcategories.
b. Marriage to a U.S. citizen
Sponsorship by a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident close relative. The Department of State has a program for promoting diversity through a lottery.
