USA: Tips for Green-Card Winners and other Immigrants

Important information regarding the interview appointment

Since the first of our winners report that they have been already informed about their interview appointments in October, we would like to point out important advice.

Please keep in mind that the following items are not allowed to bring to the US embassy:

- mobile/cell phone, cameras, laptops and other electronically devices including USB-sticks, IPods, game boy, cd/dvd player, calculator
- bags, backpacks, packages, suitcases
- cosmetics, liquids
- weapons or blasting agents
- chemicals and gas such as deo sprays, baby food, tear gas, umbrellas and so forth

We recommend storing all bags and personal belongings either in a car, with a friend, in a locker at the train station or somewhere close by.

While passing the security check you will have to put all metal like items, your jacket and belts in a small box.

The latest visa fees amount to 819 $ USD. The fees may be paid in US Dollars at the current exchange rate of the respective local currency or by credit card. If you, however, wish to pay cash, you need to do so in US- Dollars- other currencies are not accepted.

If possible ask your exchange officer for small bills since 100-dollar-bills have to be listed on an extra sheet of papers with numbers and your address on it, which will take additional time at the consulate.

For further information about all documents required to bring to the interview have a closer look at your The American Dream winner's documents page 7 - 11.

No ESTA needed for green card winners

During the recent months we got contacted by many of our green card winners asking about the need to fill out the ESTA application online. Unfortunately a lot of airlines misinform their customers urging green card winners to sign up for the Electronic System for Travel Authorization.

Please be aware that after successfully passing the interview appointment in the US embassy, you are in possess of an  immigration visa in your passport allowing you to enter the USA without getting permission by the ESTA up front, since you are not reckoned among the tourists any longer.

Rights, Duties and Opportunities for Immigrants

The U.S. Department of States offers the PDF- document  "Welcome to the United States" online.
The useful guide for all immigrants lists important addresses of federal departments & agencies, as well as  the rights and responsibilities for permanent residents. It provides information about  finding a place to live, taking care of money, getting a Social Security Number, looking for a job, paying taxes, getting a driver´s license, health care, education, childcare, about the history of the USA and how to become an U.S. citizen.

"Welcome to the United States" can be downloaded here:  here.