What are the next steps after winning the Green Card lottery?

Winning the Green Card Lottery (Diversity Visa Lottery) is a significant step towards obtaining U.S. permanent resident status. However, winning does not guarantee automatic receipt of a Green Card. The process requires completing certain steps and adhering to timelines. In this article, we will discuss what to do after winning.

1. Verify Your Winning Number

First, calm down and carefully verify your winning number. This is important because your chance of obtaining a Green Card and the timing of when you can receive it depends on it. If your number is above 30,000, the likelihood of obtaining a Green Card may be lower. Keep in mind that not all lottery winners will receive a Green Card, as the number of visas is limited.

2. Wait for the Official Interview Invitation

Do not rush to sell property or make drastic changes in your life immediately after winning. It is important to remember that winning the lottery is just the first step. Next, you need to wait for the official interview invitation. Interviews for obtaining a Green Card for new winners begin in October and continue throughout the year.

3. Check the Visa Bulletin

The Visa Bulletin is published monthly and contains information on which winning numbers will be invited for an interview in the current month. For example, in 2017, those with numbers up to 12,000 were invited for interviews in October. This information will help you estimate when you can expect an invitation.

4. Complete the DS-260 Form

After receiving the notification of winning, you need to complete the DS-260 form on the Kentucky Consular Center website. In the form, you must answer all questions and provide all necessary information. Submit the completed form and wait for further instructions. There is no need to send documents by mail as was previously required.

5. Prepare for the Medical Examination and Interview

After receiving the interview invitation, you need to schedule a medical examination. This should be done only after receiving the interview date, as the results of the medical examination have a limited validity period. Gather all original documents that may be needed for the interview, including educational certificates and police clearance certificates.

6. Gather All Necessary Documents

For the interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate, you need to bring the following documents:

• Passport.
• Birth certificate.
• Diplomas and educational certificates.
• Police clearance certificate (if the interview is conducted outside the U.S.).
• Other documents specified in the interview invitation.

Note that a police clearance certificate is required from every country where you have lived for more than 6 months.

7. Be Prepared for Administrative Processing

In some cases, administrative processing may be required. If it extends beyond September 30, you risk not receiving a Green Card due to the end of the fiscal year. Therefore, try to provide all requested documents on time and follow the consulate’s instructions.

8. Who Needs a Police Clearance Certificate?

For Green Card Lottery (Diversity Visa Lottery) winners, a police clearance certificate is mandatory in the following cases:

It is important to start the process of obtaining police clearance certificates in advance, as it may take significant time in some countries. The certificate must be valid and translated into English if issued in another language. Additionally, be sure to check the specific requirements of the embassy or consulate where you will be interviewed, as they may have additional instructions.

9. Choosing Between Adjustment of Status or Consular Interview

For Green Card Lottery winners, the choice between adjustment of status in the U.S. and attending a consular interview depends on the specific circumstances of each applicant. 

How to Choose the Best Option?

The choice between these two options depends on your circumstances, and it is worth considering all pros and cons to make the most suitable decision for your case.

10. What Amount Should Be in the Bank Account for the Interview?

There are no strict official requirements for the minimum amount of money in the bank account that must be shown at the embassy interview. However, consular officers want to be sure that you can financially support yourself and your family after moving to the U.S. without becoming a burden on the public system.

Recommendations for Minimum Amount

While the exact amount may vary, here are some guidelines that may help you prepare:

1. Single Applicant:
   • Minimum Amount: It is recommended to have about $7,000 – $10,000 in the account.
   • This money should cover initial expenses for housing, groceries, transportation, and other basic needs in the first few months after moving.
2. Married Couple:
   • Minimum Amount: It is recommended to have at least $12,000 – $15,000.
   • This will ensure security and cover basic expenses for two people.
3. Family with Children:
   • Minimum Amount: Add about $3,000 – $5,000 for each child, depending on their age and needs.

11. How Much Time is Needed for the Interview Process?

1. Undergoing Medical Examination
   • Time: Usually 1-2 days for the examination and 1-2 weeks to receive the results.
   • Description: The medical examination is a mandatory part of the immigration visa process. It must be conducted at a certified clinic accredited by the U.S. embassy. It is recommended to undergo the medical examination several weeks before the interview to ensure the results are ready.
2. Interview at the Embassy
   • Time: The interview itself lasts about 15-30 minutes.
   • Description: On the day of the interview, your documents will be checked, and then you will have an interview with a consular officer. The officer will ask you questions about your application and your future in the U.S.
3. Waiting for the Visa
   • Time: Usually 1-2 weeks after successfully completing the interview.
   • Description: If your application is approved, your passport with the immigration visa will be ready within a few days to two weeks. Sometimes additional administrative processing may be required, which can increase the waiting time.

12. Who Completes Form DS-260 and Who Completes Form I-485?

Forms DS-260 and I-485 are intended for different stages of the immigration process and are applicable depending on where you are at the time of application. Here are the details of each form:

Form DS-260

 Form DS-260, “Immigrant Visa and Alien Registration Application,” is completed by applicants undergoing the immigration process through a U.S. consulate abroad.

Form I-485

Form I-485, “Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status,” is used by those already in the U.S. who wish to adjust their status to that of a permanent resident (obtain a Green Card) without needing to leave the country.

13. Who Needs to Apply for Advance Parole?

It is advisable to apply for Advance Parole for those who are in the process of adjusting status in the U.S. (through Form I-485), those with Temporary Protected Status or DACA, and those awaiting an immigrant visa but planning to travel abroad. Advance Parole will ensure the ability to safely return to the U.S. without disrupting the current immigration process.

14. Who Needs to Attend the Embassy Interview?

The following individuals must attend the embassy interview:

1. Principal Applicant: The person who won the Green Card Lottery or applied for an immigrant visa.
2. Accompanying Family Members: All family members included in the visa application, such as the spouse and children under 21 years old, who are also applying for a visa with the principal applicant.

15. When to Complete DS-260?

Upon winning the Green Card Lottery, the DS-260 form should be completed after you receive the notification of winning and receive the interview invitation.

Important Tips: 

Complete the Form in Advance: Complete the DS-260 form immediately after receiving the interview appointment to allow enough time to gather all necessary documents and medical certificates.

Follow Instructions: Ensure you follow all instructions provided in the notification of winning and from the consulate to avoid delays in the process.

16. Can You Apply for Multiple Cases?

The possibility of applying for multiple cases depends on specific situations and immigration rules. In such cases, it is best to consult with an attorney to assess your situation and avoid potential issues.

17. About Document Translation

For Green Card winners, it is important to ensure the correct translation of all necessary documents into English. Translations must be accurate and performed by certified translators, with an affidavit of accuracy attached. All translated documents should be prepared in advance and brought to the consulate interview.

1. Which Documents Need Translation

Key Documents for Translation:

• Birth certificates.
• Marriage (or divorce) certificates.
• Police clearance certificates.
• Name change certificates (if applicable).
• Education and employment documents (e.g., diplomas and employment certificates).

2. Translation Requirements

Quality and Accuracy:

• Complete and Accurate Translation: Translations must be complete and accurate. Missing information or errors may cause delays or issues at the interview.

Certified Translator:

• Professional Services: Translations must be performed by a certified translator who attests that the translation is true and accurate.

Translation Affidavit:

• Document of Translation Accuracy: Translations must be accompanied by an affidavit from the translator confirming that the translation is accurate and done by a qualified professional.

3. When to Submit Translated Documents

Before the Interview:

• Document Submission: Some documents may be submitted with the DS-260 form or presented at the consulate interview.

Check Instructions:

• Clarify Requirements: Check the specific requirements of your consulate or immigration center, as rules may vary.

4. Preparing Documents for the Interview

Organization:

• Originals and Translations: Bring both original documents and their translations to the consulate interview. Originals and certified translations are usually required.

Additional Copies:

• Spare Copies: Prepare additional copies of documents and their translations in case they are needed.