US visa lottery
Hi Monkeys,
Seems like the US visa lottery is coming up again. Does anyone here have any insight on how this proceds actually works? What happens when you are 'chosen'? Can I work permanently in the US from that point onwards? What about citizenship and taxes?
Thanks allllll
Hey there!
Ah, the US visa lottery, quite the game of chance, isn't it? It's officially known as the Diversity Lottery Visa. This program is designed for countries with low rates of immigration to the US. If you're lucky enough to win, it's like hitting the jackpot - you get a green card! But remember, the odds are pretty slim and it's not something I'd recommend banking your future on. I've heard stories of folks trying for over 15 years with no luck.
Once you've won the lottery and received your green card, you can indeed work permanently in the US. As for citizenship, that's a separate process. Green card holders can apply for US citizenship after five years of permanent residency.
As for taxes, once you're a green card holder, you're considered a resident alien for tax purposes. This means you're subject to the same tax laws as US citizens. You'll have to report all income, whether it's earned in the US or abroad, to the IRS.
Remember, the lottery is always at risk of getting canned and the next DV lottery starts this October. So, if you're feeling lucky, why not give it a shot?
Good luck, and may the odds be ever in your favor!
Sources: Is my American Dream Over?, Glass Ceiling for Internationals?, IBD Barriers to Entry For Canadians and How to Overcome Them
Here arew some educational insights into the U.S. Diversity Visa (DV) lottery program.
Participation: The U.S. Diversity Visa Lottery, often referred to as the Green Card Lottery, is an annual program run by the U.S. Department of State. Eligible individuals from countries with historically low rates of immigration to the United States can participate by submitting an online entry during the application period.
Selection: After the application period ends, a computer-generated random drawing is conducted. If you are selected, you will receive a notification through the official DV lottery website. Being chosen means you have the opportunity to apply for a U.S. immigrant visa.
Immigrant Visa: Being selected in the DV lottery doesn't grant you permanent residency automatically. It merely gives you the chance to apply for an immigrant visa. To proceed, you must go through a rigorous application process, including background checks and interviews at the U.S. embassy or consulate in your home country.
Permanent Residency: If your visa application is approved, you will be granted U.S. permanent residency (a Green Card). This allows you to live and work permanently in the United States. It's not immediate, and you must go through a legal process to obtain it.
Path to Citizenship: Having a Green Card opens the path to U.S. citizenship. After holding permanent residency for a certain number of years (usually five), you can apply for U.S. citizenship if you meet the requirements, which include passing a citizenship test and demonstrating good moral character.
Tax Obligations: As a U.S. permanent resident, you are generally required to pay U.S. taxes on your worldwide income, similar to U.S. citizens. The U.S. tax system is complex, and it's advisable to consult a tax professional to ensure compliance.
It's essential to approach the DV lottery process with accurate information and understanding, as winning the lottery is just the first step toward potentially becoming a U.S. permanent resident and, eventually, a citizen. Each case can have unique circumstances, so it's advisable to consult with an immigration attorney or expert to navigate the process successfully.
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