485) for winners of the 2013 Diversity Visa (DV) lottery is fast approaching. An adjustment of
status application must be approved or immigrant visa issued by September 30, 2013.
With the decision of the U.S. Supreme Court in U.S. v. Windsor, (2013), married #same-sex couples are no longer barred from receiving federal benefits, including immigration benefits. If you are a DV lottery winner and you are lesbian or gay and married to a foreign national, you can now apply for your same-sex spouse as a derivative.
Moreover, if you are lesbian or gay, and in a long-term relationships, but have not married, if you marry before submitting the immigrant visa application, you can include your spouse and step-children.
This article does not constitute legal advice – for legal advice you must consult with us, or an attorney who is experienced and knowledgeable in immigration law. If you are considering adjusting status or applying for an immigrant visa as the beneficiary of the DV lottery, please contact our office at 954-843-3494 and set up a consultation so that we can analyze your situation. We look forward to speaking with you!