Aunts, uncles, cousins, and grandparents cannot directly petition. In most cases, such as cases coming through the Labor Certification route, the employer must petition on behalf of the foreign national. While not detrimental, it has the effect of binding the employee to the employer. The Diversity Lottery Program is an attempt by Congress to increase immigration from countries that traditionally do not send many immigrants to this country so as to increase the diversity found in this nation. Annually, the government determines which countries are eligible.
Individuals submit entries and people are randomly selected.
Selection does not guarantee permanent residency. Individuals must file appropriate documentation quickly in order to have the opportunity to be interviewed and granted permanent residency before the limited visa numbers are gone. Previously, Affidavits were only morally binding on those who completed them. All individuals filing I-130 Petitions for relatives will need to complete the new Affidavit. If you entered the country legally, you will not be simply placed on an airplane and sent on your way.