The U.S Department of State announced major changes to the Visa interview waiver policy in 2024. If you plan to study or work in the U.S or just visit, you need to hear this.

In this guide, you will learn what the announcement means and how it may affect you. This informative guide simplifies the recent changes to the 2024 Visa Interview Waiver Program, a crucial update for those looking to study, work, or reside in the USA.

This guide breaks down the new eligibility criteria, the application process, and what these changes mean for applicants. Whether renewing your visa or applying for the first time under this program, this comprehensive guide simplifies the process, ensuring you’re fully informed and prepared.

USA Visa Interview Waiver Policy Updates for 2024

After consulting the Department of Homeland Security, the Secretary of State has determined that select categories of interview waivers are in the national interest. The policy applies to U.S non-immigrant visas.

These are visas issued to temporary visitors to the USA. The most common non-immigrant visas are:

• B1 and V2 visas for business, visitors, and tourists,
• F and M visas for students, and
• H visas for various workers.

There are many non-immigrant categories, but it won’t be listed to keep this guide short. Remember, the policy applies to all non-immigrant categories, unless noted.

Let’s review the rules quickly and break them down for different visa categories.

The changes are implemented by the consular officers, who now have the authority and discretion to waive the in-person interview. This means that the visa officers are deciding whether to waive your visa interview based on the guidelines we’re about to review.

However, the key takeaway is that they can still request an applicant who meets the visa waiver category to come in for an in-person interview.

• Criteria 1: Apply in your country of nationality or residence.

This means you’re applying in your country of citizenship or where you currently reside. For example, someone could be a citizen of India but work and live in Frankfurt, Germany. They can apply in India or Germany to qualify.

• Criteria 2: You’ve never been refused a visa unless such refusal was overcome or waived.

This means you’ve never been refused a visa or were initially rejected, but then approved later. For example, someone may have been denied on their first attempt, but have got their visa on their second attempt.

• Criteria 3: You have no apparent or potential eligibility.

This sounds vague, but what it really means is you don’t fall into select categories for which the U.S government doesn’t issue visas. These include individuals who may have criminal charges and may be a security risk or have violated immigration policies previously amongst others. This doesn’t apply to most cases.

On top of these three criteria, there are additional ones. Let’s review those in detail.

Remaining Criteria

• H-2 visa applicants.

You’re eligible for a visa waiver as long as you meet the first three criteria. For all other non-immigrant visa applicants, you must meet two additional criteria. They are:

You must have any U.S non-immigrant visa except a B visa. For example, you’ll qualify if you’re applying for an H-1B and have an F visa.

On the other hand, if you just have a B visa, you won’t qualify. For example, if you’re applying for an F1 visa and have a previous B1/B2 visa, you won’t be eligible for the interview waiver.

There is one slight nuance to it. Your last non-immigrant visa should be current or have expired no more than four years ago. This can get confusing, let’s take a look at three scenarios:

• If your last non-immigrant visa is active or has expired in 2021 or later, great news, you qualify.
• If your last non-immigrant visa has expired in 2019 or before, you don’t qualify.
• If your last non-immigrant visa expired in 2020, your expiration date should be after your potential visa appointment date.

For example, if your potential visa appointment date is on July first, 2024, your previous visa should not have expired before July first, 2020.

This cut-off date can get tricky, so if you fall into this category, you should put in your application immediately to improve your chances of qualifying for the interview waiver.

Also, it’s important to remember that the visa officers can still require you to come in. Finally, the US government can change this policy at any time. It’s likely to stick through the end of 2024.

That wraps up about the updates on the U.S visa interview waiver policy changes for 2024.

Some frequently asked questions about Visa Interview Waiver Policy Updates for 2024 and answers.

Question: Do you know if L1B (blanket petition) is also eligible for visa interview waiver in 2024?

Answer: It is a non-immigrant visa, so as long as applicants meet the criteria, they should qualify for an interview waiver.

Question: Is 352 days ban news true for refused f1 candidates?

Answer: This news is not official, check official website.

Disclaimer: This site is not owned by any U.S Government Agency or an Immigration attorney. The contents in the site is for informational purpose only, collected from various public domains. You may need to contact an Immigration Attorney for your specific immigration needs.

I hope this guide has been helpful to you. Thanks.

List of schools in USA and Canada that offers fully-funded scholarships in Economics, Applied Economics, Economics, Mathematics and Statistics, Accounting and Management, Animal Science and Computer science.

Your job is to visit these schools, check their admission and scholarship requirements, and apply.

List of schools in USA and Canada that offers fully-funded scholarships

Below are list of schools in USA and Canada that offers fully-funded scholarships:

Economics, Applied Economics, Agricultural Economics:

(1) University of Saskatchewan

(2) Memorial University.

(3) University of Maine

(4) Lakehead University.

(5) Illinois State University.

(6) Carleton University.

(7) Brock University.

(8)University of Nebraska, Omaha

(9) University of Buffalo.

(10)Boise State University.

(11) Florida State University.

(12) Eastern Michigan University.

(13) University of North Texas.

(14) University of Nevada, Reno.

(15) The University of Kentucky.

Mathematics and Statistics:

(1) Memorial University

(2) Queens University

(3) McGill University

(4) Simon Fraser University.

(5) University of Alberta.

(6) University of Calgary.

(7) University of Georgia.

(8) University of Kentucky.

(9) University of Manitoba.

(10) Bowling Green State University.

(11) University of Alaska Fairbanks

(12) University of North Texas.

(13) University of Washington.

(14) University of Massachusetts.

Accounting and Management:

(1) University of Arizona.

(2) Bentley University.

(3) University of Iowa.

(4) Ohio State University.

(5) North Carolina State University.

(6) University of South Carolina.

Animal Science:

(1) North Carolina State University.

(2) University of Georgia

(3) Texas A & M University.

(4) Iowa State University

(5) Cornell University

(6) Purdue University

(7) University of Massachusetts, Amherst.

(8) University of Illinois

Computer Science:

• University of Alabama at Birmingham
• University of Alberta
• Binghamton University
• University of British Columbia
• University of Calgary
• Concordia University
• Cornell University
• Illinois State University
• University of Manitoba
• Memorial University
• Princeton University
• University of Saskatchewan
• University of Toronto
• Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
• York University

You can always do it yourself.

TU Delft Summer School Scholarship 2024 for African Students & Teachers. The Department of Urbanism of the TU Delft provides two full scholarship to interested students to participate in the Summer School. Apply below.

APPLICATION DEADLINE: 1st February 2024

About TU Delft Summer School Scholarship

The Summer School Planning and Design with Water for Sustainability takes place every JULY at the Department of Urbanism of the Faculty of Architecture and the Built Environment of the Delft University of Technology (TU Delft). The Faculty of Architecture is located in the historic city of Delft, in The Netherlands. There have been 8 editions of the Summer School so far.

TYPE: Scholarship

Who Can Apply?

In order to participate you need to be enrolled in a higher education course* [However, they also accept students who have graduated recently. Please, explain your situation in your letter of motivation]. The school is intended for students who have had at least 3 years of higher education in a discipline related to the built environment/urban development.

A planning, architectural or design background is indicated, but not necessary. The Summer School welcomes architects, urban planners, engineers, designers, geographers, historians, sociologists, engineers, environmental engineers, and students of other areas concerned with the built environment. However, you must be willing to understand URBANISM.

They are looking for ENGAGED, enthusiastic, entrepreneurial, open minded progressive students from all over the world who can help bring back ideas to their communities.

HOW ARE APPLICANTS SELECTED?

There is only a limited number of places (100). Students are chosen according to their background, a motivation letter and a very short movie in which candidates introduce themselves. They may not evaluate your portfolio or extensive CV.

Therefore, it is really important that you explain why you want to participate in this summer school and how it can help your PERSONAL, ACADEMIC and PROFESSIONAL development in the motivation letter.

You can tell them what makes you special by letting them know what are your passions, interests, hobbies and extra-curricular activities. Why are you different? Are you an activist? What are your aspirations? Do you make your opinions known by writing and publishing or by any other means of expression? Maybe you have a BLOG?

You need to make your point in 800 words and in a 3-minute film.

PROFICIENCY IN ENGLISH

The language of the Summer School is English; hence you need to be able to communicate well in that language. You need to mention what your level of proficiency in English is in the motivation letter. This is important because the vocabulary used at the Summer School is rather sophisticated. Hence, you will not enjoy it if you don’t speak English well.

WHERE WILL AWARD BE TAKEN: The Netherlands.

HOW MANY AWARDS: Many

What Is The Benefit Of Award?

The scholarships cover travel costs, accommodation and daily costs during the Summer School (meals and transportation).

How To Apply TU Delft Summer School Scholarship:

The Summer School offers three types of scholarships:

• SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA SCHOLARSHIP, FIND OUT MORE HERE
• SPECIAL FEES FOR TRANSITION ECONOMIES AND CONFLICT ZONES, FIND OUT MORE HERE
• YOUNG AFRICAN TEACHERS SCHOLARSHIP, FIND OUT MORE HERE

Visit TU Delft Summer School Scholarship Webpage for More Details.

Harvard presents 5 free online Artificial Intelligence (AI) courses through the Coursera platform. Combining Harvard’s renowned academic excellence with digital accessibility, gives you limitless opportunity in the tech world.

Coursera is the global online learning platform that offers anyone, anywhere access to online courses and degrees from world-class universities and companies. Coursera is an online learning platform that partners with universities and organizations to offer courses, certificates, and degrees online.

Harvard University is one of the top private universities in Cambridge, United States. It is ranked #4 in QS World University Rankings 2024.

Harvard University is devoted to excellence in teaching, learning, and research, and to developing leaders in many disciplines who make a difference globally.

Free Online AI Courses Harvard University offers:

1. Introduction to Computer Science

Students can delve into computer science’s intellectual domains and programming essentials. It is perfect for those venturing into computational thinking and problem-solving using technology.

Enrol Here : https://pll.harvard.edu/course/cs50-introduction-computer-science

The course is open for enrollment and will end by Dec 31, 2024.

2. Introduction to Artificial Intelligence with Python

With this course, you can uncover foundational concepts of AI and machine learning, with a focus on Python programming. It is ideal for individuals interested in this rapidly evolving field.

The course is open for enrollment and will end by Dec 31, 2024

Enrol Here : https://pll.harvard.edu/course/cs50s-introduction-artificial-intelligence-python

3. Data Science: Machine Learning

This course is for those who wish to gain insights into machine learning, which is a cornerstone of data science. The course culminates in building a movie recommendation system, providing a practical machine-learning experience.

Enrol Here : https://pll.harvard.edu/course/data-science-machine-learning

4. Web Programming with Python and JavaScript

This course will elevate your skills in web development using Python, JavaScript, and SQL, expanding upon the basics of CS50 for in-depth app design and implementation.

Enrol Here : https://pll.harvard.edu/course/cs50s-web-programming-python-and-javascript

5. Understanding Technology

Understanding Technology course will demystify everyday technology, by exploring its functionality and implications in daily life, tailor-made for the curious minds.

Enrol Here : https://pll.harvard.edu/course/cs50s-understanding-technology

All courses are free but certification attracts a fee.

View more courses here.

Getting a post-graduation work permit is part of the desire of international students who are currently studying abroad. As a student who is currently studying in Canada or seeking to study and work in Canada, it is important to get a post-graduation work permit as it allows you to legally live and work in the country.

What Is A Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)?

Post-Graduation Work Permit allows students who have completed their courses from eligible Canadian DLIs (Designated Learning Institutions) to work to gain valuable Canadian work experience. There are no geographic or field of employment restrictions and international students who have been able to obtain this permit can work in Canada for as long as 3 years.

The work experience gained in training, education, experience, and responsibilities can help graduates obtain permanent residence in Canada through the Canadian experience class that is within the Express Entry.

Benefits Of A Post-Graduation Work Permit

The benefits of a post-graduation work visa include:

• Graduates get the opportunity to work legally in Canada.
• You do not need a job offer before applying for the permit, this means that you can apply for any job of your choice.
• Having work experience will give you a headstart in your professional career as it will open the door to other opportunities for you.
• Getting a post-graduation work permit can allow you the opportunity to obtain a permanent residence later on.
• Additionally, graduates who have a post-graduation work permit have the opportunity to work either full-time, part-time, or self-employed.

What Is The Validity Period Of  Post-Graduation Work Visa

A post-graduation work visa is valid for a minimum of 8 months and can last for a maximum of 3 years. The visa officers will examine the length of the applicant’s program of study, and then from there, they can determine how long the post-graduation work visa will be valid.

Eligibility Requirement For A Post-Graduation Work Permit

It is important to note that graduates who graduated from a program that was delivered by a private career college under a curriculum licensing agreement with a public PGWP-eligible institution in another province are not eligible for a post-graduation work visa.

However, a transitional period will be given to students who are currently enrolled in such programs. They remain eligible for a PGWP if they remain in the program and meet all other eligibility criteria. Additionally, it should be noted that applicants can only receive 1 post-graduation work permit in their lifetime. The eligibility criteria include:

• To get a post-graduation work permit, applicants must currently hold a valid temporary status or have left Canada
• Applicants must have graduated from an eligible designated learning institution (DLI)
• They should have completed an academic, vocational, or professional training program at an eligible institution in Canada that lasted for at least 8 months. They should also have a degree, diploma, or certificate in the course.
• Additionally, applicants must have maintained a full-time student status in Canada during each academic session of the program of study. Exceptions can be made for the following groups:

1. leave from studies
2. final academic session

• Applicants must have received a transcript or an official letter from an eligible DLI. This confirms that they have met the requirements to complete their study program. It should also be noted that this letter or transcript should be included in the post-graduation work permit application.

OTHER IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Furthermore, applicants must meet the following criteria within 180 days of the date of applying:

• They hold a valid study permit.
• They held a study permit.
• They were authorized to study in Canada without the requirement to obtain a study permit under paragraphs 188(1)(a) and (b) of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations.

Accelerated Studies

Applicants who finish their studies before the actual time frame provided for the program are known to have accelerated studies. The length of the postgraduate work permit is based on the usual length of the program of study.  For instance, if a graduate completes a one-year program in eight months, then they’ll receive their PGWP which will be valid for one year.

Students Affected By A DLI Strike

If an applicant is affected by a DLI strike, the student will still be considered to have studied full-time during the length of the strike. Even though the time spent not attending class does not count, students must however meet the post-graduation work permit requirements.

Online Learning

International students who completed their programs entirely online (distance learning), either within or outside Canada, are not eligible for a post-graduate work visa. For students who have taken online courses at a distance learning institute, officers use the following guidelines to assess their PGWP eligibility:

• If the student completes more than 50% of their program online, the program might be considered a distance learning program. The applicant might not be eligible for a post-graduate work permit.
• Alternatively, if the student completes less than 50% of their program online, then there is a possibility that they might be issued a post-graduate work permit. The validity is based on the length of the program, including the credits earned from both the physical and online courses.

Transfers

Interested applicants who have transferred between eligible Canadian DLIs might equally be considered for a post-graduation work visa. The time spent studying should be at least eight months. However, if the applicant graduates from an eligible institution after transferring from an eligible one, only the time spent at the eligible institution will be considered. This time frame must be for at least 8 months.

Programs With An Overseas Component

An applicant will qualify for a post-graduate work permit if they complete their program in Canada with an overseas component. This stands as long as they earn a Canadian educational credential from an eligible DLI. However, it is important to make sure that the length of studies should be at least eight months. The officers may contact the DLI to confirm and verify the information.

Work Authorization After Submitting A PGWP Application

When applications are made before the expiration of the study permit, students will still be able to work full-time. This is while they are waiting for a decision (this is even after they might have departed and returned to Canada). But they have to meet the following criteria listed below:

• They must have had a valid study permit as at the time of the postgraduate work permit application.
• They must have completed their program of study.
• Also, they must meet the requirements for working off-campus without a work permit.
• They did not exceed the usual hours of work.

Also, if the work permit isn’t granted, then applicants are expected to stop working immediately.

Spouses And Common-Law Partners

Finally, spouses and common-law partners of people who have a post-graduation work permit may be eligible to work for an open work permit under the C41 exemption.

Spouses and common-law partners of individuals with a PGWP may qualify for an open work permit under the C41 exemption.

For out more information here

Ineligible Applicants

Applicants will be viewed as ineligible if they:

• Have previously had a post-graduation work permit in Canada.
• Have received funding from Global Affairs Canada (GAC). It doesn’t however apply to scholarship recipients.
• Have participated in the Government of Canada Awards Program funded by GAC
• Have participated in the Organization of American States Fellowships Program
• Have completed the majority of the credits toward the completion of their program of study by distance learning
• Have finished a program of study delivered by a non-Canadian institution located in Canada, regardless of their length of stay in Canada
• Have participated in the Canada–China Scholars’ Exchange Program
• Have gotten the Equal Opportunity Scholarship, Canada–Chile.

Other Necessary Documents

Applicants must ensure that they provide the correct documents with accurate information. Some of the other necessary documents include:

• Letter confirming completion of the applicant’s program of study.
• Academic transcript
• Any other additional documents that the officers might request.

Credit to: Afterschoolafrica

The NL Scholarship (formerly known as Holland Scholarship) is open for international students from outside the European Economic Area (EEA) who want to do their bachelor’s or master’s in the Netherlands. Are you ready for the chance of a lifetime? Apply for the NL Scholarship!

Study in NL is the starting point for all international students who are considering the Netherlands as a study destination.

WHEN IS APPLICATION DEADLINE:

Varying according to university

About NL Scholarship (Award)

This scholarship is financed by the Dutch Ministry of Education, Culture and Science as well as several Dutch research universities and universities of applied sciences.

The scholarship amounts to € 5,000. You will receive this in the first year of your studies. Please note that this is not a full-tuition scholarship.

Who Can Apply?

• Your nationality is non-EEA.
• You are applying for a full-time bachelor’s or master’s programme at one of the participating Dutch higher education institutions.
• You meet the specific requirements of the institution of your choice. You can find these on the website of the institution.
• You do not have a degree from an education institution in the Netherlands.

WHICH COUNTRIES ARE ELIGIBLE?

International

WHERE WILL AWARD BE TAKEN?

The list of participating universities changes every year. Below you can find an overview of the Dutch research universities participating in the NL Scholarship for the 2024-2025 academic year.

PARTICIPATING RESEARCH UNIVERSITIES 2024-2025

Below is an overview of the Dutch research universities participating in the NL Scholarship for the 2024-2025 academic year. You can find the specific closing dates and the fields of study for this academic year on the website of the institution you want to apply to:

• Leiden University
• Utrecht University
• University of Groningen
• Erasmus University Rotterdam
• Maastricht University
• VU Amsterdam
• Radboud University
• Tilburg University
• Delft University of Technology
• Eindhoven University of Technology
• University of Twente
• Wageningen University
• Theological University Apeldoorn
• Theological University Kampen

PARTICIPATING UNIVERSITIES OF APPLIED SCIENCES 2024-2025

Below is an overview of the Dutch universities of applied sciences participating in the NL Scholarship for the 2024-2025 academic year:

• Aeres University of Applied Sciences
• Amsterdam University of the Arts
• ArtEZ Institute of the Arts
• Breda University of Applied Sciences
• Codarts Rotterdam
• Design Academy Eindhoven
• Driestar educatief
• Fontys University of Applied Sciences
• Gerrit Rietveld Academie
• The Hague University of Applied Sciences
• Hanze University of Applied Sciences
• Hotelschool The Hague
• Royal Academy of Art, The Hague
• Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences
• HU University of Applied Sciences Utrecht
• Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences
• HAN University of Applied Sciences
• HKU University of Applied Sciences
• HZ University of Applied Sciences
• NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences
• Saxion University of Applied Sciences
• Van Hall Larenstein University of Applied Sciences
• Zuyd University of Applied Sciences

HOW MANY AWARDS?

Not specified

How To Apply NL Scholarship (Formerly Holland Scholarship)

You can find the specific closing dates and the fields of study for this academic year on the website of the institution you want to apply to.

• Leiden University
• Utrecht University
• University of Groningen
• Erasmus University Rotterdam
• Maastricht University
• VU Amsterdam
• Radboud University
• Tilburg University
• Delft University of Technology
• Eindhoven University of Technology
• University of Twente
• Wageningen University
• Theological University Apeldoorn
• Theological University Kampen

PARTICIPATING UNIVERSITIES OF APPLIED SCIENCES 2024-2025
Below is an overview of the Dutch universities of applied sciences participating in the NL Scholarship for the 2024-2025 academic year.

• Aeres University of Applied Sciences
• Amsterdam University of the Arts
• ArtEZ Institute of the Arts
• Breda University of Applied Sciences
• Codarts Rotterdam
• Design Academy Eindhoven
• Driestar educatief
• Fontys University of Applied Sciences
• Gerrit Rietveld Academie
• The Hague University of Applied Sciences
• Hanze University of Applied Sciences
• Hotelschool The Hague
• Royal Academy of Art, The Hague
• Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences
• HU University of Applied Sciences Utrecht
• Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences
• HAN University of Applied Sciences
• HKU University of Applied Sciences
• HZ University of Applied Sciences
• NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences
• Saxion University of Applied Sciences
• Van Hall Larenstein University of Applied Sciences
• Zuyd University of Applied Sciences

Visit NL Scholarship/Award Webpage for More Details.

Embarking on an academic journey in Canada is a thrilling prospect through these 5 best universities. A postgraduate diploma in Canada is an opportunity open to international students who desire to work and earn in Canada. It is the best way to gain relevant and practical knowledge in the field you desire to specialize in.

In this article, we will explore unique benefits, Study and work with a postgraduate diploma in Canada requirements and provide a step-by-step guide for a smooth application process.

It is therefore important that you pick the university that is right for you, as several universities in Canada offer a wide range of postgraduate diploma courses. Universities offer an in-depth curriculum with a conducive learning environment to facilitate a positive learning outcome for students.

Benefits Of A Postgraduate Diploma In Canada

Some of the benefits of pursuing a postgraduate diploma in Canada include:

• Best Universities: Canada houses some of the best universities in the world according to the QS world ranking. It is therefore guaranteed that students will enjoy high-quality education in the country.
• Internship Opportunities: There are open opportunities for students pursuing a postgraduate diploma in Canada. This helps students gain on-the-field experience beyond the classroom teachings and prepares them to adapt to the real work environment.
• Profitable Jobs: Education in Canada, postgraduate courses inclusive have a high value as they are globally recognized. There are also well-paying jobs in the country. Moreover, according to the U.S. News and World Report, 2022, Canada ranks third as the country with the best quality of life.

5 Best Universities For Study Postgraduate Diploma In Canada

Several universities offer postgraduate diploma courses in Canada. Typically, the course duration lasts for one to two years as the case may be and there are different areas of specialization available. Below is a list of 5 best universities for postgraduate diplomas in Canada:

1. Centennial College

Centennial College was founded in 1966 and it is one of the oldest public-funded universities in Canada. They offer over 250 programs including bachelor’s degrees, diplomas, certificates, and post-graduate certificates across different fields. Additionally, it is also one of the foremost colleges offering postgraduate diploma courses in Canada.

2. Humber College

Humber College was founded in 1967 and offers more than 150 across 40 fields of study programs including bachelor’s degrees, diplomas, certificates, post-graduate certificates, and apprenticeship programs. International students have access to their success advisor right from the first semester. This is to help improve each student’s learning experience. Additionally, international students also get the opportunity to develop their skills and network.

3. Lambton College

Lambton College is also a publicly funded university located in Sarnia, Ontario, Canada. It has about 10,000 students with 3,500 being international students. They also have campuses in Mississauga and Toronto. They offer over 70 programs including post-secondary programs and apprenticeships, academic upgrading, post-graduate, part-time, and training programs. They offer different postgraduate diploma courses in different fields including finance, business management, wireless networking, computer software & database development, etc.

4. Douglas College

Douglas College offers is the largest public degree university in British Columbia, Canada. It houses over 4,000 international students. Additionally, the classrooms are conducive and encourage participation. Tutors and lecturers can also pay attention to students on a closer basis. There is equally room for experimentation. Moreover, the college has a department that assists students in getting jobs after their postgraduate diploma.

5. McMaster University

McMaster University is a public research university in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. It is one of Canada’s top three research-intensive universities. As of 2022, the university recorded over 32,000 undergraduate and over 5,000 postgraduate students. McMaster University prioritizes innovation and problem-solving. The university seeks to use innovative approaches to enhance critical thinking skills among students to create healthy communities in the complex and fast-changing world.

Eligibility Requirements For Postgraduate Diploma Courses In Canada

International students who desire to pursue postgraduate diplomas in Canada must meet certain criteria. However, the eligibility criteria differ according to individual school requirements but below is a list of important things international students need to have:

• Bachelor’s Degree: This is the most important criterion. Every student who wants to pursue a postgraduate diploma in Canada must have a graduate degree in a relevant subject with at least 65% or more aggregate marks.
• English Proficiency Test: International students must take the proficiency test and have the required score. The minimum IELTS score is 6.5 and the minimum required TOEFL score is 80-110.
• Work Experience: Having a prior experience can be helpful. A 2-3 year work experience is of advantage.
• Acceptance letter: Students will also need to have an acceptance letter from their respective universities after application.

Required Documents

The required documents international students need to have to pursue a postgraduate diploma in Canada include:

• Academic Transcripts
• Student visa
• SOP
• Letter of Recommendation
• Proof of finances
• A copy of a valid passport
• Updated Resume
• Current Photographs (passport size)

Admission Process For Postgraduate Diploma In Canada

Below is the list of the admission process for postgraduate diploma courses in Canada:

• Decide on the course you want to study.
• Choose your most preferred university, Also, check the website of your preferred university for the details of the course you want to pursue.
• Outline the eligibility requirements for admission, and ensure that you are eligible.
• Fill out the application form and submit it, pay the fee attached.
• Submit all the necessary documents as requested by your school.
• You will be called for an interview if your application is accepted.
• If you ace the interview, you will receive an offer letter from the university. Make sure it is an unconditional offer.
• Pay your tuition fee, sort out your accommodation, and start your course.

Scholarship For Postgraduate Diploma In Canada

Some scholarship opportunities available for postgraduate are listed below:

• Brokerfish International Student Scholarship
• Paul Foundation Scholarship
• Forktip Women Innovation Scholarship
• Humber College International Student Scholarship

Jobs After Postgraduate Diploma In Canada

There are many job opportunities available to international students after they have completed their postgraduate diploma courses in Canada. Several companies are looking forward to hiring skilled professionals. After international students have completed their courses, they will need to start applying for jobs to get employment opportunities.

Every year, applications open for undergraduate, masters, and doctoral funding opportunities for African students to study abroad. These scholarships are offered by institutions and organizations in Africa and across the world. Select and start applying for scholarships for African students:

Below are top scholarships that are currently open for African students with varying closing dates in February 2024.

Holland Government Scholarship for International Students – Bachelors & Masters

Apply now for the Holland Government Scholarship! The Netherlands Government is offering the Holland Scholarship for International students to study for Undergraduate and Master’s programme!

Scholarship Location: Netherlands

Application Deadline: 1st February

TU Delft Summer School Scholarship for Students & Teachers in Developing Countries

The Summer School Planning and Design with Water for Sustainability takes place every JULY at the Department of Urbanism of the Faculty of Architecture and the Built Environment of the Delft University of Technology (TU Delft).

The scholarships cover travel costs, accommodation and daily costs during the Summer School (meals and transportation).

The Summer School offers three types of scholarships:

• SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA SCHOLARSHIP
• SPECIAL FEES FOR TRANSITION ECONOMIES AND CONFLICT ZONES
• YOUNG AFRICAN TEACHERS SCHOLARSHIP

Scholarship Location: Netherlands

Application Deadline: 1st February

Iso Lomso Fully-funded Fellowships for Early Career African Researchers

Iso Lomso Fellowships provide an exceptional early career opportunity for Africa’s brightest minds in academia. Iso Lomso means ‘the eye of tomorrow’ in isiXhosa: seeing towards the future, laying the foundations for tomorrow.

Application Deadline: 15th February

Hertie School of Governance Doctoral Programme for International Students (Tuition free + Stipend)

The Hertie School of Governance Doctoral Programme in Governance is open to 10 candidates with an exceptionally strong master’s degree (or equivalent) in economics, law, political science, sociology, public administration, Management, or related fields.

Scholarship Location: Germany

Application Deadline: 1st February

University of Konstanz ZUKOnnect Fellowships for Early-career Researchers from Developing Countries (Fully-funded)

The Zukunftskolleg has just launched a new call for “ZUKOnnect Fellowships for Scholars from Africa, Asia and Latin America.

Scholarship Location: Germany

Application Deadline: 15th February

International Monetary Fund (IMF) Fund Internship Program for International Students

Are you within a year or two of completing your PhD in economics or a related field or completing a Master’s degree in economics? The International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) Internship Program (FIP) may be the right opportunity for you!

Application Deadline: 15th February

Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Scholarships for Students in Muslim Communities (Undergraduate, Masters, PhD) (OPENING SOON)

The Programme covers all relevant expenses during students’ study period, including tuition fees, health and living costs as determined by the IsDB.

Application Deadline: 28th February

Yale Fox International Fellowships for Bachelors, Masters and Doctoral Students

Yale University jointly pursues these aims with 19 of the world’s leading universities in Africa, Asia, Australia, Europe, the Middle East, and the Americas.

Scholarship Location: United States

Application Deadline: 1st February

York University international Scholarships

York University is offering full-tuition scholarships to outstanding international students wishing to undertake Bachelor studies at the University.

Scholarship Location: Canada

Application Deadline: 1st February

Italy: Cattolica Africa Scholarship Program for African Masters Students

Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, as part of its mission to foster relationships with developing countries, has developed a special program for students from the African continent. This program will enable students to study for undergraduate and postgraduate degree programs taught in English at UCSC’s Milan, Piacenza and Cremona campuses.

Scholarship Location: Italy

Application Deadline: 16th February.

Leiden University Excellence Masters Scholarship Programme (LExS) – Netherland

The Leiden University Excellence Scholarship programme (LExS) is offered to excellent Non-EU/EEA students enrolling in a Leiden University master’s degree programme and for excellent students from all nationalities enrolling in a Master of Law Advanced Programme or MSc in International Relations and Diplomacy.

Scholarship Location: Netherlands

Application Deadline: 1st February.

Yale Young African Scholars (YYAS) Program for African Secondary School Students

The Yale Young African Scholars Program (YYAS) is a high-intensity academic and leadership program designed for African secondary school students who have the talent, drive, energy, and ideas to make meaningful impacts as young leaders, even before they begin their university studies.

Application Deadline: 25th January

Swedish Institute Scholarships for Global Professionals for Developing Countries

The Swedish Institute Study Scholarships (SISS) are awarded to students from selected countries for full-time master’s level studies in Sweden starting in the autumn semester. The scholarships cover both living costs and tuition fees.

Scholarship Location: Sweden

Application Deadline: February

Study in Belgium: VLIR-UOS Masters & Training Scholarships in Belgium for African/Developing Countries

VLIR-UOS offers full Masters & training Scholarships in Belgium for students from Developing countries – half of this scholarship will be offered to African students and preference will be given for Women. The eligible training or Masters programmes are taught in English.

Scholarship Location: Belgium

Application Deadline: Jan-March

France bans Students: The French parliament has passed a law restraining Nigerian students and others from bringing their families to the country.

According to a report, the law was backed by both President Emmanuel Macron’s centrist Renaissance party and Deputy of the French National Assembly, Marine Le Pen’s far-right National Rally.

A previous draft was rejected by parliament last week when the National Rally, as well as the left, voted against it. In response, the government redrafted the bill, making some of its provisions tougher.

The new toughening immigration policy makes it more difficult for migrants to bring family members to France and delays their access to welfare benefits.

It also bans detaining minors in detention centers while leaders of a third of French regions said they would not comply with certain measures in the law.

A controversial provision discriminates between citizens and migrants, even those living in the country legally, in determining eligibility for benefits.

The tougher version appealed to right-wing parties, who backed it on Monday.

Ms Le Pen welcomed the amended bill, calling it an “ideological victory” for the far-right.

“This is our bill,” said Eric Ciotti, the leader of the right-wing Republican party. He called it “firm and courageous”.

But left-wingers said Mr Macron was enabling the far-right. “History will remember those who betrayed their convictions,” Socialist party leader Olivier Faure said.

32 of France’s 101 departments, including Paris, said they would refuse to implement the provisions of the law on benefits for non-citizens.

The French vote came hours before an EU agreement to reform the asylum system across the bloc’s 27 member states.

The new pact, agreed by EU governments and European Parliament members, includes creating border detention centres and enabling the quicker deportation of rejected asylum seekers.

Hailed as a landmark agreement by Parliament President Roberta Metsola, the new system allows asylum seekers to be relocated from southern member states, which have the highest numbers of arrivals, to other countries.

It still has to be formally approved by the Parliament and member states.

The new French legislation exposed divisions within the governing alliance.

27 MPs voted against while 32 abstained – almost a quarter of pro-Macron MPs.

Health Minister Aurélien Rousseau, who was a member of the Communist Party in his youth, stepped down in protest at the immigration law.

“Some measures in the bill make me very uncomfortable,” said Yaël Braun-Pivet, the president of the lower house of parliament and a member of Mr Macron’s party.

The bill would have passed if Ms. Le Pen’s party had abstained, though not if it had voted against it. The government pointed to the size of its majority to argue that it did not depend on National Rally votes.

Speaking after the vote, the prime minister accepted some measures in the law might not be constitutional.

“We will ask the Constitutional Council,” she told French radio, referring to a top court that upholds the constitution’s principles.

Source: Punchng

This guide will focus on topic regarding all the documents that are not listed in the checklist, but you should go with to the DV (Diversity Visa) interview.

3 Important Documents For DV Interview That Have Not Been Listed In The Interview Checklist

There are three important documents that you are supposed to go with to the DV interview, even if they are not listed in the checklist.

The first document that is very important that you are supposed to prepare and attend the DV interview with is the affidavit of support. It is called the financial support document.

This affidavit of support is the Form I-134, not the Form I-864. This document is not listed among the documents in the DV interview checklists.

Majority of the embassies and consulates will go ahead and request of this document and this document is there to prove that you are able to sustain yourself as you begin life in the U.S, that you have enough finances to keep you going as you start life in the U.S.

If you cannot have the Form I-134, then you can have some savings in your bank enough to sustain you. If you choose to go the financial way, if you choose to sponsor yourself by having some savings in your account, you’ll need to have a minimum of $10,000 for each person in your application.

So you can either come with the Form I-134 from your sponsor or the bank statements showing your savings that can stand for you.

Therefore, the financial support document is one of the documents that will not find listed in the checklist, but majority of the embassies will request you for them. If you are not able to provide when you ask for it, then you will be put to the 221(g) refusal until you’re able to provide that document.

It is better you get ready with the financial support document, either the Form I-134 from your sponsor or the bank statement showing your savings that can sustain you as you begin life in the United States.

Note: The Form I-134 from your sponsor, we’ll need some accompanying documents and these accompanying documents include the tax compliance certificates. If your sponsor is a business person, then he or she should give you the Form 1040. But if he is employed on wages, then he should provide the W-2 form.

Another thing that should accompany the Form I-134 is the copy of the national identity of your sponsor or a copy of the green card of your sponsor or the driver’s license copy.

The third thing that should accompany the Form I-134 is some recent transaction receipts, just for sampling. Or if they are working, they should provide some recent payslip copies to accompany the Form I-134.

So that is very important, though it’s not included in the list.

The second document that you should provide or you should prepare, though not indicated well, is if you are qualifying through work experience, then to visit the website by the United States Government, Ministry of Labor, that website’s name is onnetonline.org.

Therein you’ll be able to check whether your job that you’re qualifying with meets the requirements as per the Department of Labor. The requirement is that your job must meet the SVP range of above seven (7), and SVP means special vocational preparation.

You visit this website onnetonline.org, and then you type the work you’re qualifying with there and search. For example, electrical engineers.

You need to print this page because when you scroll down, when you come to job zone, it shows down, SVP range. For these electrical engineers is between seven and eight, and that means it’s above seven on SVP range and that means this job qualifies.

What does that mean? If you’re qualifying through work experience, go to this website, onnetonline.org, search for your work that you’re qualifying with, and print the page showing about your job, and it will clearly show that your job is on the SVP range of above seven (7).

Make sure you print the page and go with it to the DV interview.

Finally, the other document, the third one that you should prepare, and this is for some embassies. For example, in Johannesberg (South Africa) embassy do request for this, and sometimes others embassies also requests for this.

Form DS-5535

The form DS-5535 is simply a supplemental question on the visa applicants, and it is for further security and background checks. You fill this. Some part of the form required passport and travel history, relatives’ details, address and contact information.

You fill about your social media, all the media accounts that you have, you list them there, your employment history and then you sign and you’re done.

See Form DS-5535 Sample

This simple form is very important to prepare it upfront before you attend the DV interview, especially for some embassies. You just check the history of your embassy and see if they require this.

It is better you prepare it. If you are requested for it, you just produce it. If you don’t produce this, you’ll have to be put on AP, that is the 221G refusal until you fill this and submit it the embassy for them to process your visa.

Another set of documents that might not be listed but you need to go with and this is for the case of those people that married after applying for the DV lottery and get selected.

Prepare yourself with proof documents of your existent relationship, even before the DV application because you will have to prove to the consular officer that this not an illegal marriage, that you did not get selected and you decided to just marry to give this other person a chance to be in United States, you need to prove it.

You can go with photos, bank statements that both of you share accounts with, receipts that you used even before DV application, or all activates that can support that both of you were engaged even before you did the application.

Question: Is it acceptable to send the form I-134 and accompanying documents electronically?

Answer: No, only hard copy.

Question: I married with children and added them during the application, will I be asked proof of my marriage?

Answer: You must have the marriage certificate.

Question: Where will I get that form for supplement question?

Answer: https://in.usembassy.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/71/DS-Form-5535.pdf

DISCLAIMER: This post and content is designed for general information only and is NOT legal advice. This site is not offering any Diversity Visa and is not the official site for DV Lottery program. The information presented in this post should not be construed to be formal legal advice.

DV Interviews: One of the factors that determine the number of selectees that will be scheduled for DV interview in a certain embassy, is the family size.

If you have been following guides in this site, you might be knowing that the number of visas for a DV lottery, they are 55,000 per every DV lottery. These 55,000 visas, they are meant for both the principal applicant and the derivatives.

In other words, both the derivatives and the principal applicants, they share in these visas. There are no side visas for derivatives. It is the 55,000 visas that are shared with both the principal applicant and their beneficiaries.

Having known that, it’s now clear that the number of interviews per embassy depends on the size of the families.

When you apply for the DV Lottery, the one known in the case is the principal applicant, that is the person applying. Since the principal applicant is the one that has been selected, then there are people attached to that principal applicant, if they had families.

If you are an applicant and you are selected, and you have a family, of course you included the family in the application. Let’s say, for example, you have a family of four that is you, the wife or the husband, and some two kids.

When you win, that is one visa. Then your wife or your husband takes the second visa and the children take the third and the fourth visas, in total becoming four visas out of the 55,000 visas. Those are four visas from the 55,000 visas.

The family size will determine the number of interviews scheduled in an embassy. You might find out that one embassy has principal applicant, and in that country, the principal applicants they tend not to have families.

In other countries, you’ll find them having a high rates or high tendency of having families. So in one particular embassy, you find, for example, 1,500 applicants, and of these 1,500 applicants, you find that around 1,200 of them have families.

So if we take, for example, the 1,200 applicants with families have a family of 3. That is to mean, it is 1,200 multiplied by 3, and that brings about 3,600. So if they are successful, that means 3,600 visas out of the 55,000 visas have been removed from the 55,000 visas.

That means, that embassy will have fewer interviews because visas get exhausted after every interview. After this interview, three of them have gone. After the next interview, another three. After the next interview, another four, depending on the size of the family, and therefore keeps on decreasing the number of interviews to be scheduled in a particular embassy.

I hope this has been explained at length and clearly.

If you applied a single and later on you married, that is a visa added. You are single, meaning you were to use one visa. But since you’ve gotten married and you’ve added the spouse, then those are two visas from the 55,000 visas.

Another thing, let’s say you marry within the early stages of the DV lottery, and then your wife conceives, or you as the wife conceives. Then, before you are scheduled for the interview, the child comes, you have a kid. You become three.

You applied as one, but you have become three. Those are three visas from the 55,000 visas. And that means you decrease the number of interviews that will be scheduled at your embassy.

Another instance is this. If you are married when applying, you are two of you, your husband or your wife and you yourself. Those were two visas. And then along the way, as you’re waiting for the interview or during the DV process, you happen to be blessed by a kid. That is another visa added on top, and it becomes three. So you are reducing the number of interviews to be scheduled.

Another way, you find a family. One person applies as a single applicant, and then in the process of the DV lottery, she gets married or he gets married, and the spouse comes in with step-children. Let’s say, for example, three. So that is one principal applicant, and then has added a spouse plus other three kids. It becomes a family with a total of five members. So it was one visa, but now four others have added, and that is five visas from the 55,000 visas.

Therefore it reduces the number of interviews to be scheduled at the embassy.

Also, it may also happen that you apply as a family of three, and then a long-long process. By the way, something tragic happens, maybe one of you passes on, then you’ve lost one. That mean you have decreased the number of visas used by one, and therefore you’re increasing the number of interviews to be scheduled at your embassy.

If something happened and you applied as a family and some of the members get lost, those are some of the visas that have been spared within the 55,000 visas, therefore increasing the number of interviews to be scheduled at that embassy because of those extra visas.

So if a family decreases, visas become available. But if the family increases, then visas, they decrease, and therefore reducing the number of interviews to be scheduled.

In conclusion

The number of interviews to be scheduled at any embassy will also depend upon the size of the family, which is called the family rate. Some countries have higher rate than the others. You may find that other countries have high tendency of principal applicants having families while other countries have lower tendency of principal applicants having families.

DISCLAIMER: This post and content is designed for general information only and is NOT legal advice. This site is not offering any Diversity Visa and is not the official site for DV Lottery program. The information presented in this post should not be construed to be formal legal advice.

This guide comes as an advice to those that ignore details in the DV process. Never ignore Embassy DV Instructions, you should know that by doing simple mistakes, simply by ignoring things can be very detrimental.

How a Woman Almost Missed Her Green Card Visa

Recently, someone shared her interview on the internet. She spoke very well of how by doing very slight mistake on one of the documents, ended her being put to 221G visa refusal, that is administrative processing for more than eight months.

She was put under 221G for more than eight months. She did the interview in January and was put to AP until September the 22nd, 2023. This is what happened.

She is a single lady with kids and she applied a single and was selected and she won. Then she filled the DS-260 form, including the details of her kids and submitted.

In the process of waiting for the second notification letter (2NL), she gathered information and she came to realize that she will need a consent letter for the kids from their father.

She had a low case number, so she was expecting the interview very early in the fiscal year.

She got the information that she needed the consent letter and she went ahead to organize for one. She liased with the father of her kids and the father was so willing. They went ahead to the court and they signed the consent letter prepared by a lawyer. The lawyer prepared the letter and then presented to the father to sign that he consents the kids to immigrate with the lady.

She has this document together with other documents. The second notification letter comes and then she scheduled for the interview in the month of January 2023, and then she goes ahead for the medical examination, pays all the fees required in the medical examinations. Then she proceeds to the interview on the interview date.

During the interview, she goes through the processes with the consular officer, and then she gets the visa refusal, 221G.

She is told that your interview is successful, but there is some problem with this document, the consent letter.

On the consent letter, the lawyer, instead of putting, immigrating with the kids, the lawyer had put traveling with the kids. There’s a difference between those two terms.

There is traveling, meaning moving with the kids from one country to the other freely, going to and back from the country, that is traveling. Immigrating means moving with the kids out of the country to go and relocate to a new country and live there.

In other words, to immigrate is to come and live in that country, that new country. So there was that mistake. The lawyer put traveling with instead of immigrating with.

The consular officer at the embassy pointed out that mistake and then told the lady that we will put you to 221G visa refusal and presented the yellow document circling that statement saying “the consent letter”.

Then she was told to go and get the consent letter corrected and that’s what she did. Within three days, she had corrected the consent letter and then sent it back to the embassy through the DHL.

After some time, she wrote to the embassy to confirm whether they had received the consent letter, and the embassy responded that they had received and they are now doing the administrative processing. They are going through the document. But this did not happen so soon. It did not happen so quickly. It was not fast.

They processed this document not for one month or two months or three months, not even for six months or seven. It was over eight months, and this lady was almost giving up because she had written to the embassy follow-up emails many times. Sending the follow-up email regarding the two-to-one visa refusal, but she was not successful.

She did the interview on January, and she waited for up to September towards the end of the fiscal year, 22nd of September, just few days to the end of that year.

Remember, that this year, DV-2023, it ended so early, even before the 30th of September. You can imagine the tension that she was in because of that slight error.

Lesson to Know

The simple details that you need to do and to follow to the letter, if you ignore, you have yourself to blame. Because this lady followed all the procedures to get the document, but only a slight mistake almost cost her the visa.

So every simple instruction given, if the embassy request you for the affidavit of support and you don’t have and you end up being put to 221G, you never know how long that case might take to be solved.

In fact, there are 221G visa refusals that are dealt with within a week or two weeks. But there are others that take months. Others, the fiscal year ends even without processing them, and those individuals, they end up not getting their visas just due to simple mistakes, ignoring the instructions.

So the point here is, avoid at all costs being thrown into AP processing. Avoid at all costs the 221G visa refusal. Don’t dare, because you don’t know how long your case might take if you are put to 221G visa refusal.

That was just a narration to clearly outline that there are things that you might ignore and seems to you very simple, but might end up denying you your visa. You need to be cautious.

It would be better you be over prepared than being less prepared and be thrown on 221G visa refusal.

Question: can you denied a visa if you lack to proof or produce police clearance certificate?

Answer: Yes indeed, you certainly will be denied because it’s one of the required documents.

Thank you for reading this guide, I wish you all the best. Please get prepared.

DISCLAIMER: This post and content is designed for general information only and is NOT legal advice. This site is not offering any Diversity Visa and is not the official site for DV Lottery program. The information presented in this post should not be construed to be formal legal advice.

In this educative article, you will learn how to write the perfect CV if you have no previous work experience.

If you are applying for any job with any company and you need to submit a CV, but you have no previous work experience, make sure you read this article from start to finish because it will help you.

HOW TO WRITE A CV WITH NO EXPERIENCE

To help you write a CV with no experience, this is what this article will cover:

• Important tips for writing and structuring a CV if you have no previous work experience. These tips will help you quickly understand what you need to include in your CV when you have no experience.
• 10 powerful sentences to include in your CV personal statement if you have no experience.
• An example, fully explained personal statement to use on your CV.

Important tips for writing and structuring a CV if you have no previous experience

CV WRITING NO EXPERIENCE TIP 1: Keep your CV to just two sides of A4.

If you want to grab the attention of the hiring manager, keep your CV to the point, relevant and succinct if you want it to be successful.

Remember, the hiring manager has many CVs to assess, so it’s important that yours is punchy, positive, and applicable to the position you have applied for.

CV WRITING NO EXPERIENCE TIP 2: When structuring your CV, if you have no experience, only include the following six sections:

• CV SECTION 1 – PERSONAL DETAILS

Within this first section of your CV, include your full name, home address, contact telephone number, and email.

If your contact telephone number is your mobile, make sure you have a professional sounding answerphone message.

• CV SECTION 2 – PERSONAL STATEMENT

Your personal statement is the first thing the hiring manager will read about you and your suitability for the position. Keep your personal statement positive, sell yourself, and focus on what you will do for their company if they choose to hire you.

As we proceed, you will learn the perfect personal statement to use if you have no previous experience.

• CV SECTION 3 – EDUCATION

In section three, include details of the schools, colleges or universities you attended in chronological order.

Chronological order is the schools or colleges you attended from first to last. Also, in this section of your CV include the subjects you’ve studied and the academic qualifications or grades you achieve.

• CV SECTION 4 – RELEVANT EXPERIENCE

In this section of your CV include details of any work or relevant experience you have gained.

This can include part-time jobs, jobs you have undertaken at home on a regular basis; societies or groups you have been a part of, or even sporting teams you have been in.

• CV SECTION 5 – ACHIEVEMENTS

In this next section of your CV, include any significant achievements you have gained in your life so far. This can be team event achievements, including trophies or awards won, charity or sponsored events you have completed, or even inclusion in a student-related publication.

If you can include one or more significant achievements in your CV, it tells the hiring manager that you have a track record of success, which you can easily replicate in the workplace.

• CV SECTION 6 – REFERENCES

In this final part of your CV, make sure you include the contact details of one or two references. A reference is a person the hiring manager can contact to verify who you are and confirm that you are a good person who will be able to add value to their company in the role.

Some people put the words references available on request in this section of their CV, but this will not help your chances. Good references can include former teachers, work experience managers, or even family, friends, or acquaintances who have jobs of interest, including doctors, solicitors, and other good standing careers.

Make sure you contact the reference for their permission before including them on your CV.

CV WRITING NO EXPERIENCE TIP 3: When writing your brilliant CV, if you have no experience, make sure it is readable and free from spelling or grammar mistakes/errors.

If there are any errors on your CV, it will get rejected because it demonstrates a lack of attention to detail.

CV WRITING NO EXPERIENCE TIP 4: It is absolutely vital that you include powerful words and phrases in your CV.

Because you have no previous work experience, you have to sell yourself using great words that demonstrate you are positive, forward thinking, and you genuinely want to help their business or organization succeed in the role that you will occupy.

10 POWERFUL CV STATEMENT TO USE IN YOUR CV PERSONAL STATEMENT IF YOU HAVE NO EXPERIENCE

Below are 10 brilliant sentences to use in your CV personal statement if you have no previous work experience.

Powerful CV Sentence 1:

“I am industrious, diligent, hard-working, and I will ensure I quickly add value to your team in this position if you hire me.”

Powerful CV Sentence 2:

“I will always take ownership of my ongoing professional development to ensure you see a positive return on your investment.”

Powerful CV Sentence 3:

“I am a fast learner, which means you won’t have to spend your valuable time closely supervising or monitoring me.”

Powerful CV Sentence 4:

“Although I do not have any work experience yet, I more than make up for this with my enthusiastic nature, my positive attitude, and my willingness to learn from others.”

Powerful CV Sentence 5:

“During my education, I learned the importance of making sure I prioritized my studies, supported other students, and completed everything on time and to the right standard.

The transferable skills I acquired during my studies are ones that I will take forward into the workplace.”

Powerful CV Sentence 6:

“I am a resilient, confident, and determined person who will always act as a positive role model for your organization in this position.”

Powerful CV Sentence 7:

“I consider myself to be a hardworking, self-motivated, and trustworthy person. I am a flexible and adaptable individual who works well both in a team environment as well as on my own initiative.”

Powerful CV Sentence 8:

“I am commercially aware, which means I understand how important it is to help my employer grow, improve, save money, and maintain its position as a market leader.”

Powerful CV Sentence 9:

“Because I am new to the working environment, I am effectively a blank canvas, which means you can train me up to be a productive and high-performing member of your team.”

Powerful CV Sentence 10:

“I have a genuine desire to learn as much as possible, which means I will always be willing to carry out duties that are outside of my job description.”

A BRILLIANT, POSITIVE CV PERSONAL STATEMENT THAT IS PERFECT IF YOU HAVE NO WORK EXPERIENCE

Below is a brilliant positive CV personal statement that is perfect if you have no work experience:

“Thank you for giving me the opportunity to apply for this position. I would describe myself as a hard-working, conscientious, positive, and industrious person who is keen to start work in a productive team environment.

During my studies, I learned the importance of being disciplined, completing my work on time and to a high standard, and supporting other students in their work. Outside of work I keep myself fit and active and I have a passion for self-development through reading non-fiction books and studying online training courses.

My skills and qualities are a strong match for the job description. The fact that I am new to the working environment means you will be hiring a very passionate and dedicated worker, and someone who can bring new and fresh ideas to the team that will ensure your company maintains its position as a market leader.”

That’s how to write the perfect CV, if you have no previous work experience.

This guide will focus on the answer to this very important question, Can a person with high case number receive their second notification letters (2NL) before a person with low case number?

By now you should know that KCC does process cases in the orderly manner, in the case order format. That means from the low case numbers up to the highest case numbers.

But having understood this, still people get confused because in some instances, people with higher case numbers have received their second notification letters (2NL) before those with lower case numbers.

Can High Case Number Receive 2NL Before Low Case Number?

To further explain this, yes people with higher case numbers may sometimes get their second notification letters (2NL) before those with lower case numbers. Why is it so?

To explain this in two scenarios:

First scenario: A person with a high case number in a country whose embassy is fast can receive his or her second notification letter before a person with low case number who is in a country where the embassy is working slowly.

In the recent past, especially for DV-2022, we’ve seen that there are many embassies that were performing poorly, where there are also many embassies that were performing well.

Therefore, those people in those embassies that were performing well, they received their notification letters, even if they had higher case numbers.

At the same time, other embassies, they were performing very slowly, and up to now, people with very low case numbers in some embassies or in some countries have not yet received their second notification letters and time has really died out.

That is one reason as to why higher case numbers sometimes receive their second notification letters before those with lower case numbers. It all depends with the performance of the embassy that you are attached to.

Second Scenario: You might be in the same embassy, but a person with higher case number than yours receives his or her second notification letters (2NL) before you receive, even if you have a low case number. Why does it happen so?

In this case, it now depends upon the complexity of processing your DS-260. What does mean? It mean, you might find some DS-260 are fast and quickly processed because the information in there is direct, simple and straightforward.

While in others, the DS-260s may be complex in processing, meaning the information in the DS-260 may require further background checks, and that means it might take longer.

If you have a slightly high case number and your DS-260 is simpler and can be processed faster, you can receive your second education letter before that person with slightly lower case number than yours, but whose DS-260 requires extensive background checks.

An example of DS-260 that would require further background checks is when you present in your travel history that you had recently visited a country that is highly prone or highly affected with terrorism.

Definitely, KCC will have to conduct some further background check to ensure the safety of the United States.

Those are some of the reasons as to why a person with high case number may receive his or her second notification letter (2NL) before you with a lower case number.

I hope that’s a clear and straightforward answer.

DISCLAIMER: This post and content is designed for general information only and is NOT legal advice. This site is not offering any Diversity Visa and is not the official site for DV Lottery program. The information presented in this post should not be construed to be formal legal advice.

There are some random questions, random concerns and issues that you might be having. The first concern is regarding the worries on your DV case number.

This is the DV lottery where lot of people are worried of their chances of getting an interview because of their case numbers, and it’s because it is one of the DV lotteries that have very high number of selectees.

You may be asking of your chances because of your case numbers. For example, let say your DV case number is AF 98,000, 50,000 and you are wondering whether you have any hope of getting an interview.

Or maybe you comes from that country whose embassy in the last DV lottery 2023 performed weakly. They did not meet the target and therefore majority of the selectees in that country ended up losing their opportunities.

To answer these questions: The fact is if you have very high case numbers, then it is highly possible that you might not be scheduled for an interview. If you have low case numbers, then definitely you might get this chance. What does this mean?

To determine the level of your case number, you just consider your region. If you come from EU or AS or AF, whichever region, you just take the lowest case number you’ve had of and you take the highest number that there is in that region and get the difference. Once you get the difference, you divide it into three equal parts, three equal portions.

The first part, the lower side, those are considered as low case numbers. The middle part is medium case numbers and the highest part is the high case numbers.

Most of the time those selectees that fall on the higher part, that is the part was the highest case number, they normally don’t get their chances of even getting an interview. While those in the medium to low, they get their chances.

If you’ve done that way and your category is above the medium level, then know that your chances are low. But it does not mean that you can’t be called for an interview, that you are completely out of the chances.

Even high case numbers, sometimes they get called for an interview, and that is affected by some embassies in a region performing poorly. If some embassies are extremely low in performance, then those embassies that are excellently performing their job, will have even high case numbers getting an interview appointment.

But normally, low case numbers have high chances of getting an interview appointment, while the highest case numbers they don’t.

There was this particular case where the individual that comes from an embassy that had a bad record in the previous DV lottery and this selectee was asking whether he or she might consider to transfer the interview location to a better country.

Can I Transfer My DV Case Number To A Better Embassy?

Transferring a case from one embassy to the next is not as we think or as we thought. What does that mean?

The only time as per the KCC, is if you are currently in this country, and your interview schedule in the embassy of your country or the country in which your embassy is affiliated to.

So if you are in this country and your interview is in this embassy, the only time you can change your interview location is in the case where you have completely moved to that new country.

For example, if you come from Kenya and you are selected, that means your embassy will be scheduled in the Nairobi embassy. If you happen to relocate, let’s say to South Africa, you can change your interview location to South Africa, Johannesburg. But if you have not physically moved, there is no way you are supposed to change that interview location.

If indeed you are this person that has relocated or moved to a new country, then you request unlocking of your DS-260 form and then update with the new location where you are. Then after that, you submit it back and you write a follow-up email informing KCC that you have moved to this location and this is your new address, and you give the proof of your address, of your new address in that email and then send it to KCC.

That way, KCC might consider changing your interview location to that location. But you have to prove it.

If you send the first time and they don’t do it, send a follow-up message until they take note of the changes. That is the only time that they can change it comfortably.

Normally, it is not an easy process. You need to send the first email and check whether they have noted. If they have not noted the changes, then you need to send a follow-up email.

Can you change it based on considering the performance of your embassy?

By that explanation, it is not based on that. You cannot just decide that my embassy is performing poorly, then I need to change it. It will be a tough process. Some people have tried it and they have succeeded.

Finally, you need to understand that sometimes, one embassy might be low in performance in a particular DV lottery but the next DV lottery they perform excellently well.

You might try to jump from your embassy to the next and you found out that your embassy was even better than that embassy that you are trying to shift to.

Only until January that you can get the very fast information from the CEAC website that might help you to know from the past month, how was the embassies doing.

DISCLAIMER: This post and content is designed for general information only and is NOT legal advice. This site is not offering any Diversity Visa and is not the official site for DV Lottery program. The information presented in this post should not be construed to be formal legal advice.

Germany unveils 21 pathways/categories to work, live or study in the country. This guide equips you with the knowledge to explore diverse pathways into Germany for work, study, family reunification, or visits.

Understanding requirements and following the application process is crucial to successfully move to Germany.

Embarking on a journey to Germany has diverse opportunities whether you aspire to study, work, reunite with family, or explore.

Germany Unveils 21 Visa categories to Work, Live or Study in the Country

In this guide, we will learn 21 pathways to study, work or live in Germany.

• Tourist Visa

This type of visa is ideal for short-term visits for tourism, business, or family reunions. The Schengen Visa grants access for up to 90 days (3 months) within 180 days.

• Student Visa

For this type of visa, applicants have to secure admission to a German university, demonstrate financial stability, and obtain health insurance.

The processing time for a Germany long-stay study visa may take from 6-12 weeks from the application day. While Germany short-stay study visas are usually decided within 15-30 days by the German missions abroad.

• Business Visa

A Germany Business visa is a short-stay Schengen visa, which permits its holder to enter and remain in Germany for up to 90 days within 6 months unless it is not specified differently in the visa sticker.

It is issued to people who come to Germany to perform business making, attend meetings, sign contracts, etc. This visa requires an invitation letter, proof of financial means, and health insurance.

• Work Visa

The German Work Visa allows you to work in regular employment in Germany. The visa can be applied for once you have received a formal job offer from an employer based in Germany.

It is often called the Employment Visa or Residence Permit for Employment. The applicant has to secure a job offer and meet the necessary qualifications.

• Job Seeker Visa

A German job seeker visa is a work visa issued to anyone who wants to find work in Germany. If you are granted this visa, you are allowed to stay in the country for several months, usually six, and find employment and afterwards apply for a work permit and remain in Germany long-term.

Please note that if you already have found employment and have a valid contract, you do not need to apply for a job seeker visa; you can apply for a work visa directly.

Explore career opportunities with this visa, by showcasing your qualifications and seeking potential employment.

• Family Reunification Visa

The German Family Reunion visa is a German long stay visa that is issued for the purpose of bringing family members of German residents to Germany. Reunite with family by providing proof of relationship and financial stability.

• EU Blue Card

The EU Blue Card is the main residence permit for university graduates from abroad. It is a simple and unbureaucratic procedure geared to third-country nationals keen to put their talents to use in Germany.

Designed for highly skilled workers outside the EU, this card requires a job offer, recognized degree, and passion for your field.

You cannot use the German Blue Card to work somewhere else in Europe. You will have to apply for the EU Blue Card for that other country, provided that you find a job and meet the criteria.

You can apply for an EU Blue Card in another country after you have already worked for 18 months in Germany.

• Au Pair Visa

This visa enabled you to immerse yourself in German life, providing childcare and cultural exchange with a host family.

The duration of the au pair placement must be for at least 6 months. As soon as the visa has been issued, the au pair may travel to Germany. The processing time required for the visa application can vary from 6 weeks up to 3 months time.

• Freelance Visa

The freelance visa enables one to pursue entrepreneurial ventures or freelance work by crafting a detailed business plan and highlighting your skills.

In order to get a German freelance visa, you must prove that there is an economic interest or a regional need for your services. In your business plan, you must highlight how you plan to find work and grow your business.

You must typically submit the application for a freelance visa at the German Embassy or Consulate in the country where you currently live.

• Visa for Medical Treatment

You can access healthcare by presenting medical certificates and proof of financial means when applying at the embassy.

• Guest Scientist Visa

Contribute to research projects with an invitation, proof of qualifications, and financial means.

• Language Course Visa

To promote the German language, Germany is offering this visa category to enhance German language skills through enrollment in a language school, accommodation arrangements, and financial stability.

• Blue Card for IT Specialists

For IT specialists, this pathway requires a job offer, a recognized degree, and technological expertise.

• Cultural/Artist Visa

You can demonstrate your artistic talents by applying for a visa under this category with an invitation, proof of artistic activities, and financial stability.

• Job Seeker Visa for Graduate

Recent graduates can extend their stay, transitioning from academia to the professional world.

• Training/Internship Visa

You can gain hands-on experience with an Ausbildung contract, internship agreement, and proof of accommodation.

• Visa for Visiting Family Members of EU/EEA Citizens

Visa applicants who wish to visit their families can do so with evidence of their relationship to them and the EU/EEA citizen’s residence.

• Visa for Fellowship

This visa enables applicants to attend academic fellowships with a short-term visa based on fellowship type.

• Ausbildung or Apprenticeship Visa

This visa is popular for non-EU nationals seeking vocational training.

• Investor Visa

This visa highlights special privileges for investors.

• FSJ (Freiwilliges Soziales Jahr) or Voluntary Work Visa 

A transformative experience for young individuals contributing to social causes.

General Requirements

• Valid Passport and Photos: Ensure a valid passport for at least six months beyond the planned departure date with passport-sized photos.
• Complete Application Form: Accurately fill out the visa application form, providing all requested information.
• Travel Health Insurance: Obtain coverage for unexpected medical expenses during your stay.
• Proof of Accommodation: Provide evidence of accommodation arrangements in Germany.
• Financial Stability: Submit recent bank statements or financial documents demonstrating the ability to support yourself.
• Travel Itinerary: Include a detailed plan of activities and destinations in Germany.
• Flight Reservations: Present confirmed flight reservations indicating intent to travel and return within the specified visa period.
• Consulate Interview: Be prepared for a consulate interview if required.

Disclaimer: This site is not owned by any German Government Agency or an Immigration attorney. The contents in the site is for informational purpose only, collected from various public domains. You may need to contact an Immigration Attorney for your specific immigration needs.

I hope this guide has been helpful to you. Thanks.

How can someone traveling to the United States of America through visiting (tourist) visa can change from visiting visa to another type of visa (Student Visa)? Let learn How to change tourist visa to student visa in USA.

This guide will focus on being a student, two types of students in this particular case.

How to change Tourist Visa to Student Visa in USA

It is one of the most frequently asked question that is, “if I come to the United States through visiting, can I find a way to change it from one visa type to another visa type?”

The answer is yes. There are legal procedures someone can be able to do that and it will explain in this guide.

If you are going to U.S on a visit via B1, B2 visa, when you go there, it depends on the duration given to stay in the United States, the visa duration. While you are there, you can apply to become a student, and being a student, there are two types of students.

There are Students who are seeking degree and students who are going to do what is called non-degree program. These two categories also determine two different types of visas or categories of students. They are as below:

• F1

F1 visa, which people talk about every time, because this is for people who are seeking degree.

When you travel to U.S, maybe you want to do bachelor’s degree or you go to community college, then bachelor’s degree, then you are going to do masters, doctorate, that is F1 student.

F1 student is an international student visa, which allows you to go to a university or college for a degree seeking program.

But what if you don’t want to get a degree? You are going to the vocational school. You are going to get what is called non-degree program.

Remember, in the United States, they don’t have something called diploma as a level of education like in other country. In U.S, diploma or certificate is called non-degree program.

So if you want to pursue what is called non-degree program, you are going to apply for M-visa, not F-1 visa, M1 visa.

• M-1

M-1 visa is a visa for a student or a person who wants to travel to U.S to pursue non-degree program or rather going to study what is called the vocational schools.

You attend flight school, cooking school (culinary school), study Cosmetology (the study and application of beauty treatment), etc. There are certain programs you are allowed to go and take those one. If you want to take the English-speaking one, even if it’s non-degree program, is not part of the M1, is going to be part of the F1, that is one of the categories which is different.

Note: Not all institutions are allowed to give you M1 visa because you can apply for non-degree program for this certificate, e.g cosmetology, but just going out there and just get admitted doesn’t give you the documentations, which you can be allowed to enroll to those particular schools.

Remember, there are some schools that are not allowed to have international students. So in order to avoid that, there is a list of vocational and non-degree institutions which is called M1 students, are allowed to go.

There is something called a student exchange visitor program. In that particular category, there is a website, which is the website of the Department of Homeland Security, which has the list of all institutions which are allowed to enroll people to get these programs and the universities or institutions in general.

Some might be community colleges. They can allow to take M1 and F1 non-degree and degree seeking students, and some can be independent institutions, not directed to be the college in particular.

To see the institutions which are allowed, proceed here.

If you go to apply to an institution which is not allowed, then you are not going to be allowed to be given the visa.

Note: On that particular case, there are no scholarships in most cases when we talk about the non-degree programs. You are going on your own to learn any of your desired skill (e.g cooking, culinary speciality school, chef school, study about photography, videography, filming, etc).

Most of those one are not having scholarships. What does that mean? It means if you want to go to study for non-degree program, you have to prove that you are able to pay for tuition fees, and to be able to cater your own living expenses.

People who are in M1, are they allowed also to work like F1 student?

Remember, if you are a degree seeking student, F1, you are allowed to work 20 hours per week. Yes, M1 also are allowed to work 20 hours per week. Also, they’re allowed to work on campus.

What does that mean? If it’s a school year, you work on campus, when it is out of school, the holiday, you can work off campus, you are allowed to do that. But when you are looking for institutions, is better to look for bigger institution. Because if you look like a smaller institution, maybe they might not have works opportunities on campus for international students or rather M1 students, so better to look for the institution like community colleges.

Below is a website that has the name of states, name of the programs. You can select a state and you can choose all the programs you want in that particular state you want to apply.

Even if where you are outside the United States or you are inside the United States, that is one of the way you can be able to change, is to apply to do every single procedures and you’ll be given I-20, the same I-20 like someone is international student, M1 student will be given the same I-20 and you can be able to convert from one visa to become a student, either non-degree seeking or degree seeking student.

This is very important thing you need to understand about M1 visa.

Disclaimer: This site is not owned by any U.S Government Agency or an Immigration attorney. The contents in the site is for informational purpose only, collected from various public domains. You may need to contact an Immigration Attorney for your specific immigration needs.

I hope this guide has been helpful to you. Thanks.

FEBRUARY 2024 Cut-Off Numbers for DV-2024: As we saw in the last guide, the Diversity Visa Bulletin for the month of January 2024 showing the cut-off numbers to apply across all regions and exception countries in the DV-2024 Program has been released.

In this guide, we are going to learn the various case number ranges that are concerned by interviews to be conducted during the month of February 2024, as part of the DV-2024 Program.

Diversity Visa Case Numbers Concerned

With the publication of the Visa Bulletin for January 2024, cases whose case numbers are eligible for interview during the month of February 2024 in the various regions and exception countries, excluding those whose interviews have already been scheduled are as follows:

Looking at the Diversity Visa Advanced Notification section of the Visa Bulletin below, as we consider the relevant case number ranges.

From the above image, these are the cut-off numbers to apply across the various regions and exception countries during the month of February 2024, as part of the DV-2024 Program.

Based on these cut-off numbers, the case numbers that are concerned by interviews to be conducted during that same month of February 2024 are as follows.

• South America Region

From the bottom of the table above, in the South America region, case numbers that are concerned by February 2024 interviews are case numbers from case number 1 to case number 1,599, which have so far not received their interview notification.

• Oceania Region

For Oceania region, the numbers go from case number 1 to case number 874, applicants with case numbers in that range who have so far not received their interview notification from the Oceania region are concerned by interviews to be conducted during the month of February 2024.

• North America (Bahamas) Region

In the case of the North America region, the first 4 case numbers that are concerned by interviews being conducted during this month of December 2023, as well as the month of January 2024, are the same 4 case numbers that are concerned by interviews to be conducted during the month of February 2024.

• Europe Region

For Europe region, the numbers go from case number 1 to case number 13,499. Applicants that are chargeable to countries from the Europe region with the exception of the two exception countries having case numbers in this range and who have so far not received their interview notifications are concerned by interviews to be conducted during the month of February 2024.

In the case of the two exception countries, applicants chargeable to Russia with case numbers going from case number 1 to case number 13,249, who have so far not received their interview notification are concerned by interviews to be conducted during the month of February 2024.

In the case of Uzbekistan, the numbers are case number 1 to case number 5,499. Applicants chargeable to Uzbekistan with case numbers in this range who have so far not received their interview notification are concerned by interviews to be conducted during the month of February 2024.

• Asia Region

For Asia region, the case numbers that are concerned by interviews to be conducted during the month of February 2024 are the same case numbers that are concerned by interviews to be conducted during the month of January 2024.

The numbers go from case number 1 to case number 5,499, and that concerns applicants chargeable to countries in the Asia region that are neither of the exception countries.

In the case of Iran, the first exception country, the numbers go from case number 1 to case number 5,449. Applicants chargeable to Iran who have so far not received their interview notification and whose case numbers fall within this range are concerned by interviews to be conducted during the month of February 2024.

In the case of Nepal, the numbers go from case number 1 to case number 4,499. Applicants within this range who have so far not received their interview notification and whose case numbers fall within this range are concerned by interviews to be conducted during the month of February, 2024.

• Africa Region

For Africa region where if you are an applicant who’s not chargeable to Algeria, Egypt or Morocco and you have a case number from case number 1 to case number 26,499 and so far you have not received your interview notification, then you are concerned by interviews to be conducted during the month of February 2024.

In the case of Algeria, the numbers go from case number 1 to case number 25,999. In case you are chargeable to Algeria with a case number within that range, and so far you have not received your interview notification, then you are concerned by interviews to be conducted during the month of February, 2024.

In the case of both Egypt and Morocco, the numbers go from case number 1 to case number 24,999. Applicants chargeable to both of those countries with case numbers within that range who have so far not received their interview notification are concerned by interviews to be conducted during the month of February 2024, as part of the DV-2024 Program.

Those are the case number ranges from the various regions and exception countries that are concerned by interviews to be conducted during the month of February 2024 as part of the DV-2024 Program.

In Conclusion

Cases whose case numbers are the same or higher than their regional or country cut-off are still not current or eligible for interview. Such cases cannot expect to receive their interview notification yet. Applicants concerned must check the Visa Bulletin when it is published in January 2024, to ascertain the status of their case number by then.

The Visa Bulletin is published every month, and it is by means of this tool that Diversity Visa applicants get to know the month when their case will be eligible for interview. Publication of the next Visa Bulletin, i.e the sixth showing cut-offs for the DV-2024 Program will be done some time in January 2024.

For more information concerning what the Visa Bulletin is all about, look at the bottom of this article.

READ: ALL VISA BULLETIN UPDATES

DISCLAIMER: This post and content is designed for general information only and is NOT legal advice. This site is not offering any Diversity Visa and is not the official site for DV Lottery program. The information presented in this post should not be construed to be formal legal advice.

As the year draws to a close, the eagerly anticipated 2024 Diversity Visa (DV-2024) Bulletin for January 2024 has been released by the U.S. Department of State (DOS), opening new doors for aspiring immigrants. That’s a big deal if you’re waiting for your priority date to be current so that your green card application can move forward.

The December Visa Bulletin, which is officially referred to as the Visa Bulletin for January 2024 has been released. In this guide, we will learn the cut-off numbers that will apply in the DV-2024 Program during the month of February 2024.

Also, this comprehensive guide, we will explore the insights provided by the January 2024 Diversity Immigrant Visa Bulletin, shedding light on the current state of visa availability and what it means for those seeking to embark on the journey to the United States.

For the previous cut-off numbers from the previous visa bulletin i.e the visa bulletin for the month of December 2023, check this post.

About Visa Bulletin

Department of State (DOS) publishes current immigrant visa availability information in a monthly Visa Bulletin. The Visa Bulletin indicates when statutorily limited visas are available for issuance to prospective immigrants based on their individual priority date.

On Nov. 20, 2014, the Secretary of Homeland Security directed USCIS to work with DOS to:

• Ensure that all immigrant visas authorized by Congress are issued to eligible individuals when there is sufficient demand for such visas, and
• Improve the Visa Bulletin system for determining when immigrant visas are available to applicants during the fiscal year.

Diversity Visa Program | Diversity Visa Bulletin for January 2024

This bulletin summarizes the availability of immigrant numbers during January for: “Final Action Dates” and “Dates for Filing Applications,” indicating when immigrant visa applicants should be notified to assemble and submit required documentation to the National Visa Center.

Immigrant numbers in the DV category are available to qualified DV-2024 applicants chargeable to all regions/eligible countries as follows. When an allocation cut-off number is shown, visas are available only for applicants with DV regional lottery rank numbers BELOW the specified allocation cut-off number.

Looking at the Diversity Visa Advanced Notifications section of the Visa Bulletin and consider the February 2024 cut-off numbers. Below is the Diversity Visa Advanced Notification section of the Visa Bulletin for the month of January 2024, and here are the various cut-off numbers that will apply during the month of February 2024.

DV 2024: February Cut-Off Numbers Explained

• Africa Region

For Africa region, where the 22,000 cut-off number for the month of January has been increased to 26,500 for the month of February. Obviously, that does not apply to applicants chargeable to the three exception countries from the Africa region.

In the case of the first exception country, Algeria, the February 2024 cut-off number has been established at 26,000. It was 15,000 for the month of January 2024, and it has been increased to 26,000 for the month of February 2024.

In the case of Egypt, the cut-off number to apply during the month of February 2024 is 25,000. It is 15,000 for the month of January, and it has been increased to 25,000 for the month of February.

Finally to Morocco, where the cut-off number for the month of February has been established at 25,000. For January, it is 20,000 and it has been increased to 25,000 for the month of February 2024.

• Asia Region

For Asia region where the 5,500 cut-off number for the month of January 2024 has been maintained for the month of February 2024.

The 5,500 cutoff number applies to applicants that are not chargeable to the two exception countries from the Asia region.

In the case of the exception countries, the January 2024 cut-off number of 5,450 for Iran has also been maintained for the month of February 2024. For Nepal, the 3,000 cut-off number for the month of January has been increased to 4,500 for the month of February 2024.

• Europe Region

For Europe Region where the cut-off number to apply during the month of February 2024 as part of the DV-2024 Program has been established at 13,500. For the month of January 2024, it was established at 12,000, and now it has increased to 13,500 for the month of February, and that does not concern applicants chargeable to the two exception countries from the Europe region.

To the two exception countries, in the case of Russia, the cut-off number that has been established for the month of February 2024 is 13,250. For the month of January, it is 11,500 and it has been increased to 13,250 for the month of February.

In the case of Uzbekistan, the cut-off number that has been established for the month of February 2024 is 5,500. For January 2024, it was 4,750 and it has increased to 5,500 for the month of February 2024.

• North America (Bahamas)

For North America region, where the cut-off number for the months of December 2023 and January 2024 has been maintained for the month of February 2024, making the cut-off number to apply during that month in the North America Region to remain 5.

• Oceania Region

We have 875, that’s the cut-off number to apply in the Oceania region during the month of February 2024. The January 2024 cut-off number for Oceania was 650, and it has been increased to 875 for the month of February 2024.

• South America Region

For South America region, where the cut-off number that has been established for the month of February 2024 is 1,600. It is 1,000 for the month of January, and it has been increased to 1,600 for the month of February, and that concerns the South America region.

Those are the cut-off numbers to apply across all regions and exception countries during the month of February 2024 as part of the DV 2024 Program.

For those who would like to have more explanation concerning visa bulletin and possibly know what the visa bulletin is all about, click the article that is just below and you will be taken to the article.

READ: ALL VISA BULLETIN UPDATES

Determining Visa Availability

USCIS considers several factors to determine if there is a greater supply of visas than the demand for those visas. To determine visa availability, USCIS will compare the number of visas available for the remainder of the fiscal year with:

• Documentarily qualified visa applications reported by DOS;
• Pending adjustment of status applications reported by USCIS; and
• Historical drop off rate of applicants for adjustment of status (for example, denials, withdrawals and abandonments)

In Conclusion:

The Diversity Visa Bulletin for January 2024 serves as a roadmap for those embarking on the journey to secure a place in the United States through the DV Program.

By understanding the nuances outlined in the bulletin, applicants can make informed decisions, navigate the immigration process effectively, and increase their chances of success in the pursuit of diversity and opportunity in the U.S.

Thanks for reading this guide. See you very soon in the next guide.

DISCLAIMER: This post and content is designed for general information only and is NOT legal advice. This site is not offering any Diversity Visa and is not the official site for DV Lottery program. The information presented in this post should not be construed to be formal legal advice.

Biggest challenges for DV LOTTERY WINNERS when they arrive in USA: In this guide, we will learn some difficulty part for someone who has won the Diversity Visa Lottery on starting their life in America.

Biggest challenges for DV LOTTERY WINNERS when they arrive in USA

As a DV lottery winner (Green Card holder), what is the most frustrating situations on how to start? There are three biggest parts.

1. Accommodation

Accommodation is the most complicated issue sometimes for so many people. For instance, in order to rent apartment, these are some of the terms you need to know.

You need to pay the first month, including what is called security deposit fee. The security deposit is almost similar to the first month, so you pay for the last month. Let’s say if the apartment, let’s say they say is $1,500 per month, it means you have to pay for 3,000 upfront.

The security deposit is when you are going to finish staying there, they are going to see if there are any things you destroy or if let’s say there are certain things, you made some mess up on the room, that means they will come and use some of the security deposit to do that and the remaining of the money within 7-10 days they will give you back your money.

So at the beginning, that’s what has becoming difficult for someone going to U.S as a DV lottery winner. But sometimes, most of the landlord will want someone who will want to know how you’re going to pay, they want to see your three-month income. How much money do you make?

There are certain places they will say you must make maybe twice amount of the rent. If the rent is 1,500, you need to get paid 3,000 and above. But as a brand new DV lottery winner you cannot show the proof of been working, your income with this amount for three months, you don’t have that one. That’s usually the most difficult part for DV lottery winners.

They are also going to check for the criminal record.

As a new DV lottery winner, it’s advisable, when you have the host, it is better to have a discussion like, “is it okay if I can stay at your place for this amount of money?” Whatever you agree with, because that person will not require you to go and find the security deposit, pay the security.

When you are staying there for three months, four months, you have been working, you can be able to find apartment and to be able to start the place to go to stay.

Usual, place to stay, apartment-wise, that is the most challenging part for so many DV lottery winners, especially when you have a family, that is adding another layer of complications compared to if you were single.

2. Adjustment you are going to make

Another challenging part for people is not just about finding the jobs, is about the adjustment you are going to make. You are coming from your country, there are things you have to leave, like cultural wise.

In U.S, every time you will be speaking English, you are waking up compared to your country, sometimes there are that adjustment. There is adjustment to the culture, adjustment to working style, etc. You have to be flexible. You have to be understanding. You must be ready to start learning the new life.

Finding jobs is not really the difficult part. You can go to the specific stores, warehouses and directly ask them if they have employment, you can apply. You don’t go to U.S and expect you’re becoming the manager, you have to be humble. Even if you have bachelor degree, even if you have masters degree, even if you have PhD, even if you have been manager before, you are going to start over here.

3. Money Management

Another challenges is the money management. Maybe before, you go to the bar, you can give money to other people, bring the beer to everyone, give offer, etc, it’s over.

Also, maybe you cannot have money and you can ask your friend, neighbor, relative, etc or someone can borrow the money. There in U.S you are on your own. You have to know that the money we’re getting, it’s on your budget. You live on your means. Don’t go there to find a way to start showing off, there is no showing off, there is no competition with anybody, it’s your life.

Don’t start trying to find ways on how you can compete with other people. There is no competition with anybody. Know your budget. Don’t go and rent apartment of huge amount of money while you know your income is not that huge. There is no any other place to do to get the money except to working.

Those are the three important lessons, all the important things you need to pay attention when you go to the U.S as a brand new immigrant, and especially if you have a diversity visa lottery winner.

Learn those challenges and work ahead to those things you need to know, because otherwise you would be in trouble.

DISCLAIMER: This post and content is designed for general information only and is NOT legal advice. This site is not offering any Diversity Visa and is not the official site for DV Lottery program. The information presented in this post should not be construed to be formal legal advice.