If I have applied to the DV lottery program, what happens if I get married?
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If I have applied to the DV lottery program, what happens if I get married?
At the moment my current status is single so I have applied as single. However, my boyfriend proposed and we plan to get married next year. In case I win the first step for lottery and I get contacted for the final interview – is possible to get married in the meanwhile and make my “new” husband partecipate with me for final interview? When is the right moment to introduce “him” into the process? I’m afraid the change of status would impact negatevely the final decision to give me a green card, and need to plan accordingly my wedding. At the same time I don’t want to risk into 3-4-5 years of waiting before being able to be in the same country.
Asked on December 6, 2012 under Immigration Law, Virginia
Answers:
SB, Member, California / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 11 years ago | Contributor
Yes, if you are selected in the diversity lottery, you will be able to confer that benefit to a new spouse as long as you get married before entering the US on the immigrant visa, or adjust status to permanent residence if you are in the US. However, be aware that only someone who is in the US in lawful status will be eligible for benefits under the diversity visa program.
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