What is the Diversity Visa Lottery?

The DV Lottery (Diversity Immigrant Visa Program) is an annual program managed by the U.S. Department of State. It provides up to 50,000 immigrant visas (Green Cards) each year to individuals from countries with low rates of immigration to the U.S.

What are the eligibility requirements?

✔️Be a citizen of an eligible country.

1. If not, you may apply using your spouse’s or parents’ country of birth under certain conditions.

✔️Meet education or work experience criteria:

1. At least a high school education or equivalent,
2. OR at least 2 years of work experience in the past 5 years in a qualifying occupation requiring 2+ years of training.

✔️Meet general admissibility standards:

1. No serious criminal record.
2. No prior immigration violations.
3. Pass a medical examination.

What is the application process?

1. Submit your entry online during the official registration period (usually between October and November). It's 100% free.
2. Wait for the random drawing results, typically released in May the following year.
3. If selected, complete the DS-260 immigrant visa application.
4. Prepare and submit all required documentation.
5. Attend a consular interview and medical exam.
6. If approved, you’ll receive a DV visa and can immigrate to the U.S.

📄What are the required documents?

• Valid passport.
• DS-260 confirmation page.
• Birth certificate.
• Educational or work experience documents.
• Proof of financial self-sufficiency.
• Medical exam results.
• Selection confirmation (DV case number).

What are the restrictions?

⚠️ Only one entry per person per year is allowed. Duplicate entries are disqualified.

⚠️ Being selected does not guarantee a Green Card. You must complete the full process and meet all requirements.

⚠️ The process must be completed by September 30 of the fiscal year following selection.

⚠️ The DV visa can only be issued through consular processing, except in rare adjustment of status cases within the U.S.

Can Family Members Join?

Yes. The spouse and unmarried children under 21 of the selected applicant may also receive Green Cards as derivative beneficiaries.

Expected Timelines

• Entry period: October–November.
• Selection results: May.
• Full processing time: typically 6 to 12 months, but the entire case must be completed before September 30 of the following fiscal year.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Does it cost anything to enter the lottery?
  No, entering is completely free. Fees are only paid if selected.
• Can I apply every year?
  Yes. There is no limit on how many times you can enter, as long as you meet the eligibility criteria.
• Can I submit more than one entry per year?
  No. Multiple entries from the same person will result in automatic disqualification.
• Do I need a job offer to apply?
  No. But you do need to prove you can support yourself financially.
• Does being selected guarantee a Green Card?
  No. Selection only gives you the opportunity to apply. You still need to meet all eligibility, document, and interview requirements.
• Can I adjust status if I'm already in the U.S.?
  Yes, but only if you're in a valid non-immigrant status and meet eligibility.

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