Can I apply to the Green Card Lottery without compromising J-1 visa stamp?

[fmarangoni76]

Hi All,

I am a researcher in J-1 status, WITHOUT HRR. My visa will expire at the end of 2013 and I'd like to apply to the Green Card Lottery.

However, I was told that applying to the lottery jeopardizes the issue of a new visa stamp (which I must obtain in December) since the Green Card Application violates the nonimmigrant purpose of the J-1.

Is this true?

Thanks for the help,

Francesco