As a Diversity Visa (DV) winner, congratulations on your achievement! This article will guide you through the process of entering the U.S. for the first time. From preparing for your trip to what to expect at the port of entry, we’ve got you covered.
Preparation before the trip
Before embarking on your journey to the U.S., there are several things that you should take care of:
Step 1: Book your flight
Booking your flight in advance can save you money. Make sure to book a direct flight to the U.S. to avoid any hassles during transit.
Step 2: Gather the required documents
There are several documents that you will need to carry with you:
- DV Lottery visa: This visa will be in the form of a sticker on one of the pages of your passport.
- Passport: Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond the date of your intended stay in the U.S.
- Sealed envelope: This envelope will contain important documents that you must hand over to the port of entry officer.
Step 3: Pack your bags
Pack light and smart. Remember to pack warm clothes if you are travelling during winter months.
Arrival in the U.S.
Upon arrival in the U.S., you will go through the following steps:
Step 1: Port of entry procedures
The port of entry officer will ask you a series of questions to verify your identity and the purpose of your visit. Here are some questions you may be asked:
- What is the purpose of your trip to the U.S.?
- How long do you plan to stay in the U.S.?
- Where will you be staying in the U.S.?
- Do you have any relatives or friends in the U.S.?
Be truthful in your responses and keep your answers brief and to the point.
Step 2: Biometric collection
The port of entry officer will take your fingerprints and a photo.
Step 3: Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer
After the biometric collection, you will meet with a CBP officer who will examine your sealed envelope and verify your documents. The CBP officer may ask you additional questions and may also conduct a search of your luggage.
Step 4: Final check
Once your documents are verified, you will be given your passport and sealed envelope back. Congratulations, you have successfully entered the U.S.!
What’s in the sealed envelope?
The sealed envelope given to you at the embassy contains the following documents:
- Sealed envelope with “To be opened by a DHS (Department of Homeland Security) officer only” written on it
- Sealed medical exam results in a brown envelope
- Original civil documents (birth certificate, marriage certificate, etc.) that you provided at the time of the visa interview
Conclusion
Entering the U.S. for the first time can be an exciting and nerve-wracking experience. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure a smooth journey from start to finish. Remember to carry all necessary documents with you and answer all questions truthfully. Good luck on your new journey in the U.S.!
FAQs
- Can I travel to the U.S. after the expiration date on my visa?
- No, you must enter the U.S. before the expiration date on your visa.
- What happens if I forget to bring any of the required documents?
- You may be denied entry into the U.S. if you do not have all the required documents.
- Can I extend my stay in the U.S. after entering on a DV Lottery visa?
- Yes, you are supposed to renew green card after 10 years of stay extend your stay in the U.S. on a DV Lottery visa.
- What should I do if I face any issues at the port of entry?
- If you face any issues, remain calm and respectful and answer all questions truthfully. You can also ask to speak with a supervisor if necessary.
- Can I travel within the U.S. after entering on a DV Lottery visa?
- Yes, you can travel to any location within the U.S. after entering on a DV Lottery visa.
