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Assistance, Guidance, and Information for Coming to the United States

All the necessary information about moving to America in one place!

Table of Contents

Assistance & Guidance for Entering the United States with a GREEN CARD (DV Lottery)

Obtaining a GREEN CARD through the lottery is a great opportunity, but also a responsibility. For a successful relocation, follow the steps below and prepare the required documents. All documents must be translated by a certified translator and notarized.

Step 1: After Winning the Lottery (DV Lottery Selection)

  • Once you are notified you have been selected:
  • Complete the DS-260 form online (Immigrant Visa Application).
  • Keep your confirmation number and all submitted information.
  • Prepare the documents for the interview.

Step 2: Preparing for the Interview at the U.S. Embassy in Skopje

The interview is held at the U.S. Embassy in Skopje.

Required documents for each family member applying:

  • Passport (valid at least 6 months beyond travel date).
  • Birth certificate (issued within the last 6 months).
  • Certificate of citizenship.
  • Criminal record certificates (from court and police).
  • Marriage documents (marriage certificate, divorce decree if applicable).
  • Diplomas, transcripts, and proof of education.
  • Military record (if applicable).
  • Two photos meeting U.S. standards (5x5 cm).
  • Medical exam confirmation (authorized clinic in Skopje, before the interview).
  • Proof of financial support: Affidavit of Support (if sponsored) or proof of personal funds.
  • Proof of paid fees (if a sponsor is guaranteeing you).
  • Proof of payment of the interview fee.

Step 3: The Embassy Interview

  • The consular officer reviews your documents.
  • You’ll be asked about your background, education, family, and plans.
  • If approved, the immigrant visa is placed in your passport within a few days.
  • You will also receive an immigrant packet (sealed envelope) to hand over at U.S. entry.

Step 4: Traveling to the United States

  • Before departure, pay the USCIS Immigrant Fee ($220) online — without this, the Green Card is not issued.
  • With the immigrant visa in your passport, you may travel.

Step 5: Upon Arrival in the United States

  • At the U.S. airport (Port of Entry – POE):
  • Present the sealed immigrant packet to the immigration officer.
  • Passport is stamped with an immigrant stamp serving as a temporary Green Card (valid for 1 year).

Step 6: Documents After Arrival

  • The physical Green Card arrives by mail at your address (usually within 2–4 months).
  • Social Security Number (SSN) – processed automatically, delivered to the same address within 2–4 weeks.
  • Driver’s License / State ID – apply at the DMV with passport, SSN, proof of address and a utility bill.

Step 7: Obligations & Practical Steps

  • Open a bank account.
  • Register for health insurance (state-dependent).
  • Apply for jobs or continue education.
  • Avoid staying outside the U.S. for more than 6 months without valid reason, as it may affect your status.

Step 8: Enrolling Children in School

In the United States, all children have the right to free public education. The enrollment process:

  • Go to the School District Office or the local school assigned to your address.
  • Required documents:
  • Child’s birth certificate.
  • Passport or other ID.
  • Proof of U.S. address (lease, utility bill, etc.).
  • Vaccination records and medical info.
  • Sometimes prior transcripts from North Macedonia are required (translated into English).
  • After registration, the school determines the grade and start date.

If you’re unsure which school is assigned to your address, use the School District’s website to look it up by address.

Step 9: First Steps for the Family

  • Open a joint bank account.
  • Apply for health insurance if desired (state-dependent).
  • Begin job search once you receive SSN and Green Card.
  • The same applies to your spouse — with SSN and Green Card they can apply for work.

Step 10: Important Information

  • Green Card is valid for 10 years; permanent resident status is lifelong if you maintain U.S. residency.
  • After 5 years (or 3 if married to a U.S. citizen) you may apply for citizenship.
  • Always keep copies of all immigration documents.

Assistance & Guidance for Entering the United States with a TOURIST VISA (B1/B2)

The B1/B2 tourist visa is the most common way to enter the United States for a short stay — tourism, visiting relatives or friends, business meetings, or medical reasons. This visa does not permit employment or long-term residence and typically allows a stay of up to 6 months.

Step 1: Applying for a Tourist Visa from North Macedonia

  • Start the process at the U.S. Embassy in Skopje.
  • Complete the DS-160 online.
  • Pay the visa fee (about $185).
  • Schedule an interview via USTravelDocs.
  • Prepare documents: valid passport, DS-160 confirmation page, fee receipt, photo (5x5 cm), and proof of ties to North Macedonia (employment, property, family).

Step 2: Interview at the U.S. Embassy (Skopje)

If approved, the visa is stamped in your passport within a few days.

Visa validity can be 1–10 years (multiple entries), but the length of stay is determined by the immigration officer at the port of entry (typically up to 6 months).

Sample questions from the consular officer:

  • Why are you traveling to the United States?
  • Where will you stay?
  • How long will you remain?
  • What ties do you have to North Macedonia?

Step 3: Traveling to the United States

  • At departure and upon arrival, your documents are checked.
  • At entry, CBP officers may ask additional questions.
  • You will receive an I-94 electronic record with your authorized stay dates.

Step 4: After Arrival

You may:

  • Travel and sightsee.
  • Visit relatives and friends.
  • Attend business meetings, conferences, or medical treatments.

You may NOT:

  • Work (this is illegal).
  • Enroll in regular academic programs (requires a student visa).

Step 5: Important Documents in the U.S.

  • Passport with visa.
  • I-94 record (printable online).
  • Address where you are staying.

Step 6: Important Note for Departure

You must leave the United States before the expiration date on your I-94. Overstaying may result in bans, penalties, and deportation.

Assistance & Guidance for Entering the United States with a J‑1 Visa

The J‑1 visa allows temporary stay in the U.S. for exchange programs, internships, training, cultural, or academic exchange.

Step 1: Applying for a J‑1 Visa from North Macedonia

  • Receive a DS‑2019 form from the sponsoring U.S. organization.
  • Complete the DS‑160 form online.
  • Pay the SEVIS fee (about $220).
  • Pay the visa application fee ($185).
  • Schedule and attend an interview at the U.S. Embassy in Skopje.

Step 2: Documents for Interview

  • Valid passport.
  • DS‑160 confirmation page.
  • DS‑2019 form.
  • SEVIS fee receipt.
  • Proof of finances.
  • Proof of ties to North Macedonia.
  • Two photos (5x5 cm).

Step 3: Embassy Interview

Questions may include:

  • Why did you choose this program?
  • How will you fund your program and living expenses?
  • What are your plans after completion?

Step 4: Travel to the United States

  • At entry, CBP will review your documents.
  • You will receive an I‑94 record.
  • J‑1 participants may enter up to 30 days before the program start date.

Step 5: Work & Obligations with J‑1 Visa

  • Work is limited to activities allowed under your program.
  • Unauthorized employment is prohibited.
  • You must follow your program rules and duration.

Step 6: After Arrival

  • Verify your address in SEVIS.
  • Apply for an SSN if your program allows employment.
  • Keep all documents secure (passport, DS‑2019, I‑94, finances).

Step 7: After the Program

  • You must return to North Macedonia.
  • Some J‑1 visas have a 2‑year home residency requirement.

Driver’s License and Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) in the United States

Obtaining a driver’s license in the United States is an important step for mobility and work opportunities.

Regular Driver’s License (Class D)

  • Apply at the DMV.
  • Provide passport, proof of legal status, SSN, and proof of residence.
  • Pass written, vision, and road tests.

Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)

  • Requires Class D license first.
  • Additional knowledge tests and medical certificate required.
  • CDL learner’s permit issued first, then training and road test.
  • Usually takes 4–12 weeks.

How to Obtain a Macedonian Passport in the United States

Macedonian citizens residing in the United States must apply through the nearest Macedonian Consulate.

Required documents

  • Completed application form.
  • Proof of Macedonian citizenship (ID card or old passport).
  • Birth certificate.
  • Identification (e.g., U.S. driver’s license).
  • Passport photos.
  • Fee payment.

Processing time is typically 4–8 weeks.

How to Repatriate a Deceased Person from the United States to North Macedonia

First step

Contact the nearest Macedonian Consulate.

Required documents

  • Death certificate (issued in the U.S.).
  • Identification of the deceased.
  • Medical certificate stating cause of death.
  • Consular mortuary certificate/authorization for transport.
  • Contract with a certified transport company.

Preparation usually takes 7–14 business days. Urgent cases may be processed faster at additional cost.