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Many individuals currently residing in the United States wonder if they can apply for the Diversity Visa Lottery, commonly known as the Green Card Lottery, while physically present in the country. The answer is yes, you can apply for the Green Card Lottery even if you are already in the USA, provided you meet the eligibility criteria set by the U.S. Department of State.
To be eligible for the Diversity Visa Lottery, applicants must be natives of qualifying countries. The list of eligible countries changes annually, and some countries with high rates of immigration to the United States are excluded. Additionally, applicants must have at least a high school education or its equivalent, or two years of work experience within the past five years in an occupation that requires at least two years of training or experience.
It is important to note that being in the United States at the time of application does not affect your eligibility. However, if you are selected, you must process your visa through consular processing in your home country or another country where you have legal residence, unless you are eligible to adjust status within the United States. Adjusting status is only possible if you are in the U.S. legally and meet specific requirements at the time of filing.
The application process for the Green Card Lottery is entirely online through the official U.S. Department of State website. It is free to enter, and applicants should be cautious of scams or websites that charge fees for submitting an application. The application period typically opens in October and closes in November each year.
If you are selected as a winner, you will be notified through the Entrant Status Check available on the official website. You must then proceed with the visa application process, which includes submitting required documents, attending an interview, and undergoing medical examinations. Winning the lottery does not guarantee a green card; it only provides the opportunity to apply for one.
In summary, individuals in the USA can apply for the Green Card Lottery as long as they meet the eligibility requirements. It is crucial to follow the official guidelines and avoid fraudulent schemes. For more information, visit the U.S. Department of State\“s Diversity Visa Program webpage. |
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