DV Lottery Requirements

Learn about the requirements, eligibility and rules for the US Diversity Visa Lottery Program and increase your chances of winning the visa

The Diversity Visa (DV) program, also known as the Green Card Lottery, is a United States government sponsored lottery that provides permanent residence visas to qualifying individuals from select countries around the world. The lottery is administered by the U.S. Department of State and is conducted annually. It allows up to 50,000 lucky individuals to live and work in the United States, a dream come true for many.

The DV program was created by the Immigration Act of 1990 and has been conducted every year since 1995 with the goal of promoting diversity within the United States. This program has been highly sought after by many individuals since its inception and it is important to understand the requirements to participate.

DV Lottery Requirements

To qualify for the Diversity Visa lottery, applicants must first meet certain eligibility requirements. These requirements include:

Geographic Origin: Applicants must be from a country with a low rate of immigration to the United States. Currently, nationals from the following countries are not eligible for the DV lottery: Bangladesh, Brazil, Canada, China (mainland-born), Colombia, Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Haiti, India, Jamaica, Mexico, Nigeria, Pakistan, South Korea, United Kingdom (except Northern Ireland) and its dependent territories, and Vietnam.

Age: Applicants must be at least 18 years of age

Education or Work Experience: Applicants must have either a high school education or two years of work experience within the past five years in an occupation that requires at least two years of training or experience.

Proof of Eligibility: Applicants are required to submit proof that they meet the eligibility requirements. This proof can be in the form of school transcripts, diplomas, certificates of completion or proof of work experience.

Entry into the Drawing: After meeting the eligibility requirements, applicants must submit an entry into the DV lottery. The entry is made through an online portal set up by the Department of State and must include a photo of the applicant.

Selection Process: Entries are randomly selected through a computer-generated process. Selected applicants will be notified through email and must then complete the follow-up process.

Follow-up Process: Selected applicants must fill out the follow-up paperwork and submit it to the DV Lottery program. This paperwork includes a visa application form, proof of eligibility, and a police certificate.

After submitting the paperwork, applicants will be contacted by the Department of State to schedule an interview with a consular officer. The interview is the final step in the process and applicants must pass in order to receive the visa.

Conclusion

The Diversity Visa program is an excellent chance for many individuals to live and work in the United States. It is important to understand the requirements of the program in order to successfully participate, as each year thousands of individuals apply. Good luck to all those who apply and may you achieve your dream of living and working in the United States!

For Further Information about the DV Lottery

Contact the Green Card Lottery USA in case you have any specific question about the DV Lottery. In addition, please check out our Green Card FAQ page to receive comprehensive info regarding the DV Lottery program or simply apply for the official DV 2005 Green Card Lottery.