!!About to get a J1- What about if I win a green card first?

[Mary83]

Hi guys,
I'm about to get a J-1 for 18 months, I will enter a Trainee program and I won't basically earn money.
I will be a trainee in a big Institution through an international agency.
Will I need to stay home for 2 years then? Nobody ever mentioned that to me. A friend of mine had the same J1 and then he could get the spouse one very soon for example.
In July they are going to communicate the winners of this year's DV Green Card. It's very unlikely, but if I get it, once I get to the US with my J1 and find a lawyer, would I be able to change my status while i'm there?
When I applied for the DV I had no idea I would have gotten a J1 then.
This is so complicated!
Thanks much for your help!

 

[plamos]

Hi Mary83,

I am sorry that I am not able to answer to your question.
I am just posting this because I am actually in your hypothetical situation. I applied for this year DV lottery and yesterday I found out that I am one of the selectees that will eventually receive one.
At the same time I applied for the Fulbright scholarship and from second reserve become first reserve. They adjusted my status and will provide me with a J1 visa to study in Purdue University.
Now I am in big trouble.
I do not know if it is possible to get the green card while on a J1. For sure I will not be eligible to get it by adjusting my status in the USA. I hope that at least there will be a way to keep it active until I fulfill the 2 years.
Please help.
Thank you.