The Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery, commonly known as the Green Card Lottery, is a U.S. government program that makes 55,000 permanent resident visas available each year to individuals from countries with low rates of immigration to the United States. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how the program works and how to apply:
Application Process
- Application Period: The application period for the DV Lottery usually opens in early October and closes in early November each year. It’s important to apply as early as possible during this period.
- Online Application:
- Applications must be submitted online through the official U.S. Department of State website dvprogram.state.gov.
- The application is free of charge.
- Only one entry is allowed per person. If you submit more than one application, you will be disqualified.
- Required Information:
- Personal Information: Name, gender, date of birth, place of birth, and country of birth.
- Passport Information: A valid, unexpired passport from your country of nationality (note that this requirement was in place for the 2021 lottery, but it may be waived in some years—always check the latest instructions).
- Photograph: A recent photograph that meets specific requirements (e.g., size, format, background). The photo must be submitted electronically as part of your application.
- Family Information: If you are married or have children, you must include information about your spouse and children under 21 years of age, even if they do not intend to immigrate with you.
- Education/Work Experience: Information about your highest level of education or work experience.
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After Submission
- Confirmation Number: After you submit your application, you will receive a confirmation number. It is crucial to save this number as you will need it to check the status of your application.
- Status Check:
- Results are typically announced the following May. You can check the status of your application using your confirmation number on the DV Lottery website.
- If you are selected, you will be directed to a confirmation page with further instructions.
If Selected
- Complete the DS-260 Form: If you are selected, you will need to complete the DS-260 immigrant visa application form online.
- Supporting Documents: You will be required to provide supporting documents, including your passport, birth certificate, police certificates, and other civil documents. These documents must be submitted to the Kentucky Consular Center (KCC) for processing.
- Interview at U.S. Embassy/Consulate:
- After your DS-260 form and supporting documents are processed, you will be scheduled for an interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate in your country of residence.
- During the interview, a consular officer will review your application and supporting documents. You will also be required to undergo a medical examination by an approved physician.
- Visa Issuance: If the consular officer approves your application, you will be issued an immigrant visa. You must then travel to the United States and present your visa at a U.S. port of entry.
- Green Card: Upon entry to the United States, you will receive your Green Card (permanent resident card) in the mail.
Important Considerations
- No Guarantees: Winning the lottery does not guarantee that you will receive a visa. You must still meet all eligibility requirements and successfully complete the visa interview process.
- Deadlines: If selected, it is important to complete all required steps as quickly as possible. There is a limited number of visas available, and they are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis to eligible applicants.
- Scams: Be cautious of fraudulent websites or services that claim to guarantee you a Green Card or ask for payment to submit your application. The only official site to apply for the Diversity Visa Lottery is the U.S. Department of State’s website, and the application is free.