Key Points to Consider When Registering for the Green Card Lottery
The U.S. Green Card Lottery is held annually and presents a great opportunity for those who want permanent residency in the United States. The registration process is simple, but there are several important points you must follow to avoid losing your chance. This guide explains everything you need to know in simple terms.
1. Eligible Countries
Not all countries are eligible to participate. Only countries with low immigration rates to the U.S. can take part. Fortunately, Iran is eligible, meaning you can apply every year.
2. Education Requirement
You must have at least a high school diploma, which means 12 years of formal education. If you do not have a diploma, you must have at least two years of work experience in the last five years in a qualified skilled job.
3. Correct Photo Submission
One of the most important parts of the registration process is uploading a valid photo. The photo must be taken within the last six months. It must have a white background, your full face must be visible, and glasses are not allowed. If your photo does not meet the official standards, your registration will be rejected.
4. Accurate Personal Information
When filling out the registration form, you must enter your name, date of birth, place of birth, and gender exactly as they appear on your passport. Even a small mistake could lead to disqualification.
5. Including Spouse and Children
If you are married or have children, you must include them in your application, even if you do not plan to bring them to the U.S. If you fail to include them, your application may be disqualified later.
6. Register Only Once
Each individual is allowed only one registration per year. If you submit multiple applications, the system will invalidate all of them, and you will lose your chance.
7. Use a Valid Email Address
Use a valid personal email during registration. This email may be needed for follow-ups, but winners are not notified via email. You must check the official website using your confirmation number to see if you won.
8. Registration Period
Registration is only open for a limited time, usually from early October to early November. Do not wait until the last days because the website may be slow due to high traffic.
9. Registration is Free
The Green Card Lottery is completely free. If someone asks for money to register on your behalf, it is a scam. You must fill out the official form yourself at no cost.
10. Keep Your Confirmation Number
After completing your registration, you will receive a confirmation number. This number is very important because it is the only way to check if you have won. If you lose it, you cannot check your results.
11. Beware of Scams
Every year, scammers try to take advantage of people by sending fake emails or messages claiming they have won. The only way to check your results is through the official website using your confirmation number. The U.S. government never sends emails to notify winners.
12. Checking the Results
Lottery results are announced in May of the following year. You must check the official website using your confirmation number to see if you won. If you do not win, do not be discouraged—you can try again next year.
13. Steps After Winning
If you win, you must go through additional steps, including filling out more forms and attending an embassy interview. Winning does not guarantee a visa—you must still meet all eligibility requirements and provide complete documents.
Final Thoughts
The Green Card Lottery is a great opportunity to obtain permanent residency in the U.S.. However, it is crucial to complete all steps carefully and correctly. Pay attention to accurate form submission, correct photo uploads, and keeping your confirmation number safe.
Since this is a yearly opportunity, if you do not win this time, try again next year.