USA Green Card Application Requirements and Lottery Guide

The Green Card, a dream for those wishing to live and work in America, is an opportunity that millions of people apply for each year. However, having sufficient information about the application process can increase your chances. In this article, you will find detailed information about Green Card application requirements, application fees, required documents, application methods, types of Green Cards, and the lottery participation process.

What is a Green Card?

A Green Card is a document that provides permanent residency in the United States. Green Card holders can:

• Work in the U.S.,
• Receive education,
• Benefit from legal rights,
• Bring their families to the U.S.

It is an important step towards U.S. citizenship. However, Green Card holders do not have full citizenship rights (such as the right to vote).

What are the Green Card Application Requirements?

The basic requirements you must meet to apply for a Green Card are:

• Place of Birth: You must be born in one of the eligible countries designated under the Diversity Visa Program (DV Lottery) (Turkey is among these countries).
• Education and Work Experience: You must have at least a high school diploma or have 2 years of work experience in a specific occupation within the last 5 years.

Additionally, you must meet the general criteria used when obtaining a U.S. visa (such as having a clean criminal record and passing health checks).

How Much is the Green Card Application Fee?

The Green Card application fee actually consists of two different stages:

1. Lottery Application Fee: Participation in the Diversity Visa Program (DV Lottery) is completely free. However, if you utilize the support of intermediary agencies while applying, certain fees may be charged for these services.
2. Green Card Processing Fees: If you win the lottery, you will incur costs such as file processing at the U.S. consulate, health reports, and visa interviews. These costs can range from approximately $500 to $800.

What Documents are Required for the Green Card Application?

The following documents are required during the Green Card application process:

• Passport: You will need to enter your passport information during the application.
• Biometric Photo: A passport-sized photo that meets American standards (this is one of the most important criteria in the lottery application).
• Education Documents: High school diploma or higher (documents proving work experience may also be valid).
• ID Card and Birth Certificate: Ensure that your identification information is complete.
• If applicable, Marriage or Divorce Certificates: These documents will be necessary if you wish to bring your family to America.

How to Apply for the Green Card Lottery? (Step by Step)

To participate in the Green Card Diversity Program, follow these steps:

1. Visit the Official Website: Go to https://dvprogram.state.gov. Applications can only be made from here.
2. Fill Out the Form: Complete your application with your personal information (name, date of birth, passport information, etc.) and your biometric photo.
3. Save the Confirmation Number: Be sure to keep the confirmation number given to you after your application. You can check the lottery results with this number.
4. Check the Results: The application results are announced every May. Detailed steps for those who win the lottery will be provided.
5. Interview Process: Prepare your documents and apply to the U.S. consulate for your visa interview.

What are the Types of Green Cards?

Green Cards can be obtained through different pathways. Here are the most common types of Green Cards:

• DV Lottery (Green Card Lottery): A program aimed at increasing the diversity of immigration to the U.S.
• Family Connection: Can be obtained with the sponsorship of a family member who is a U.S. citizen.
• Employer-Sponsored Green Card: Obtained with the support of an employer working in the U.S.
• Asylum or Refugee Status: Granted to those who request asylum in the U.S.
• Investor Green Card: Immigration status granted to individuals making a specific investment in the U.S.

What is the Diversity Visa Program (Green Card Lottery)?

The Diversity Visa Program offers a chance to win a Green Card to 50,000 people each year. The aim is to increase the diversity of immigrants to the U.S. The system is based on a random lottery, and the application process starts every October and ends in November.

What Should You Pay Attention to in the Lotteries?

• Do not apply outside of official sources.
• Ensure that your photo meets the specified standards.
• Fill out your application information accurately and completely.

What Should You Do After Winning the Lottery?

After winning the lottery, the process is not yet complete.

If you are among those with a number below 15,000, your chances are higher. Unfortunately, with higher numbers, you may not get a chance. Therefore, winners with a low number can obtain their interview appointments more quickly and complete the process more easily. However, those with a high number should be cautious about the possibility of the annual visa quota being filled.

You need to follow these steps:

Verify That You Have Won

Check whether you have won through the official DV Lottery results. Be cautious of emails from scammers; the U.S. government does not send you information via email.

Fill Out the DS-260 Form

After winning, you must fill out the DS-260 form for the Immigrant Visa application. This form is the next stage of your immigration process, and it is very important to fill it out completely.

Wait for Your Interview Appointment

After submitting the DS-260 form, you will need to wait to receive an appointment for the interview. During this process, ensure that your documents are complete.

I Can't Find an Appointment in Turkey, Can I Apply from Another Country?

Yes, you can apply from another country. If you cannot find a suitable appointment in Turkey, you may prefer to apply at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate in a country other than the one you specified as your residence in the DS-260 form. However, it is extremely important to contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in the country you plan to apply to learn whether this is possible and to get details about the process. Also, keep in mind that the country you are applying to may require additional documents or conditions from you. Careful planning is recommended during this process.

Prepare the Required Documents

Prepare all requested documents, such as identification documents, birth certificates, criminal records, and health reports, completely. These should be with you during the interview.

Attend the Immigration Visa Interview

Attend the interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate on the specified date. Be careful to provide accurate information during the interview.

Enter the U.S. After Receiving Your Visa

After receiving your immigration visa, you must enter the U.S. within the specified time frame. After entering, the Green Card application process will be completed, and your permanent residency (Green Card) will be sent to your address.

Completing each step carefully and on time is vital for the smooth progress of the process.

Take the First Step in Your Green Card Application

You are not alone in your dream of obtaining a Green Card! Having the right information and guidance is very important to take advantage of living and working opportunities in America. If you would like more support, you can get detailed information about the Green Card application by calling our 0 (212) 909 99 71 call center number. Remember, the Green Card is not just a document; it is also a gateway to your dreams!