Information about Green Card Lottery 

Freely enter and leave the country, receive social benefits, study, and work — all of this is made possible by a U.S. Green Card. 

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What is a Green Card?

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A Green Card is a document that confirms permanent resident status in the United States.

Essentially, it is a plastic identification card containing the holder's personal information, photograph, and biometric data.

With a Green Card, you retain the citizenship of your home country, but after five years of holding the card, you may apply for U.S. citizenship.

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During this time, you are required to pay taxes and comply with U.S. laws, but you may also:

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• start your own business;

• work in the United States;

• receive an education;

• obtain government benefits and assistance.

The primary requirement for a Green Card holder is permanent residence in the United States.

If the holder leaves the country for more than one year, the Green Card may become invalid.

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How to Win a Green Card Through the Lottery

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Every autumn, the DV Visa Program is launched — a free lottery for individuals wishing to immigrate to the United States. Through this program, the U.S. Department of State encourages immigration.

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On December 19, 2025, the U.S. authorities suspended the Green Card lottery program.

The decision was made because the suspect in the shooting at Brown University, which occurred on December 14, had entered the United States through this program.

The date for the resumption of the lottery is currently unknown.

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