Winning the Green Card Lottery (Diversity Visa Lottery) is a dream come true for millions of people around the world. This joyous moment brings a lot of excitement and anticipation. However, after the initial euphoria, it’s time to take action. To make the most of this opportunity and avoid mistakes, it’s important to know what steps to take. In this article, we will detail what to do after winning the Green Card Lottery.
Confirming Your Win
The first step after receiving notification of your win is to confirm your win on the official lottery website. You will need your Confirmation Number, which you received when registering for the lottery. Visit [dvlottery.state.gov] and enter the necessary information to confirm.
Completing the DS-260 Form
After confirming your win, you need to fill out the DS-260 immigration form. This is a crucial step because your continued participation in the program depends on the accuracy of the form. The form is completed online on the Consular Electronic Application Center (CEAC) website. Provide all necessary information about yourself and your family, including details about your work, education, and residence history.
Preparing Documents
After submitting the DS-260 form, you need to prepare a package of documents for your interview. This package includes:
- Passport (valid at the time of entry to the USA)
- Birth certificate
- Marriage/divorce certificate (if applicable)
- Military service record (for men)
- Police certificates from all countries where you have lived for more than 6 months after
turning 16 - Photographs (according to requirements)
- Financial documents (proof of financial stability)
Medical Examination
Before the interview, you must undergo a medical examination at one of the accredited clinics. A list of clinics is available on the website of the US embassy in your country. The medical examination includes a check for diseases, vaccinations, and other necessary procedures. The results of the examination are given to you in a sealed envelope, which you need to bring to the interview.
Embassy Interview
After preparing all the documents, you will be scheduled for an interview at the US embassy. The interview is a key step in obtaining your visa. During the interview, the consul will ask you questions about your life, work, and reasons for moving to the USA. It is very important to be honest and open. If all documents are in order and the consul is satisfied with your answers, your visa will be approved.
Paying the Immigration Fee
After successfully passing the interview, you need to pay the immigration fee (USCIS Immigrant Fee). This fee is paid online on the USCIS website. Only after paying the fee will you be able to receive your green card upon arrival in the USA.
Moving to the USA
With the visa in your passport, you can plan your move to the USA. Upon arrival, you will go through immigration control, after which you will receive a stamp in your passport that serves as temporary proof of your permanent resident status. The green card will be sent to the address you provided within a few weeks.
Adapting and Integrating
Moving to a new country is always a challenge. It is important to prepare in advance for life in the USA: find housing, a job, and learn about local laws and customs. Try to participate in community life, meet new people, and build your life in your new country.
Winning the Green Card Lottery opens the door to a new life, but it requires a serious and responsible approach. Follow all the steps outlined above, be attentive, and carefully prepare for each stage of the process.