The annual Diversity Visa registration period began on October 2, 2012, and will remain open for only a few short weeks – closing November 3, 2012. Commonly referred to as the Diversity Lottery, or the Green Card Lottery, the procedure allows up to 50,000 lucky individuals to enter the United States as Green Card Holders.
However, the procedure is pretty strict and is highly time sensitive (all winners and their qualifying family members must be in the United States by the end of fiscal year 2014).
The following is the quick and dirty explanation of the process and some limitations. For a more detailed discussion of the diversity lottery, please set up a consultation with a New York City Immigration Lawyer.
What is the FY14 Diversity Lottery Registration Time Frame?
Registration for the diversity lottery is currently open and will run until noon on November 3, 2012. After that, the registration period is closed. The application process is done electronically – so it is best to apply asap and not wait until the last minute – when something could go wrong.
How Important Is It to Closely Follow The DOS Diversity Lottery Instructions?
Extremely important. It is very important to follow the diversity lottery instructions, available at the DOS Website. Failure to follow all of the instructions will likely disqualify an applicant – even a winning applicant. Imagine winning the lottery and then losing the ticket – that is what it is like to get your wining diversity lottery application disqualified. So please, follow the directions closely.
Is Everyone Eligible for the Diversity Lottery?
Unfortunately, not everyone is eligible for the diversity lottery. It is closed to nationals from many countries, including:
BANGLADESH, BRAZIL, CANADA, CHINA (mainland-born), COLOMBIA, DOMINICAN REPUBLIC, ECUADOR, EL SALVADOR, HAITI, INDIA, JAMAICA, MEXICO, PAKISTAN, PERU, PHILIPPINES, SOUTH KOREA, UNITED KINGDOM (except Northern Ireland) and its dependent territories, and VIETNAM.
Additionally, if an individual is inadmissible to the United States – he or she will probably not be able to act on a winning diversity lottery application.
When Are the Winners Announced?
The winners of the diversity lottery are announced beginning May 1, 2013. The announcement is made online. Winners are chosen at random.
What happens Once the Winners Are Announced?
Winning the diversity lottery does not guarantee a person permanent residency in the United States. Thus, it is extremely important that all winners of the diversity immediately (IMMEDIATELY) begin the process of applying for permanent residency in the United States. Failing to complete the process by the end of fiscal year 2014 will result in the forfeiture of the immigration benefit.