The Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery Program, also known as the Green Card Lottery, is a unique opportunity for individuals from eligible countries to obtain U.S. permanent residency. Every year, the U.S. Department of State (DOS) randomly selects applicants through a lottery system, offering thousands of lucky winners the chance to immigrate to the U.S.
If you’re considering applying for the DV Lottery, this guide will walk you through who qualifies, how to apply, key deadlines, and what happens if you’re selected.
Who Can Apply for the DV Lottery?
To qualify for the Diversity Visa Lottery, applicants must meet two main eligibility criteria:
1. Country of Birth Requirement:
- You, your spouse, or one of your parents must have been born in a country that has sent fewer than 50,000 immigrants to the U.S. in the past five years.
- The list of the most recent eligible countries begins on page 30 of the 2026 DV Lottery instructions.
2. Education or Work Experience Requirement:
- You must have either:
- At least a high school diploma or its equivalent (completion of a 12-year formal education program); OR
- Two years of work experience in the past five years in a job that requires at least two years of training or experience (as defined by the U.S. Department of Labor).
- To check if your job qualifies, refer to the official U.S. Department of State (DOS) guidelines.
Good news! You can apply for the DV Lottery whether you’re inside or outside the United States, as long as you have never violated immigration laws.
How to Apply for the DV Lottery?
Applying for the Diversity Visa Lottery is a free and online-only process. Follow these steps carefully to ensure your application is successfully submitted:
1. Submit Your Application Online
- You must apply through the official Electronic Diversity Visa (E-DV) website.
- Paper applications are not accepted.
2. Complete the Entry Form
- Fill out the form accurately and completely—any errors may disqualify you.
- Provide your name, birth date, gender, country of eligibility, education, work experience, passport details, and a recent passport-style photo that meets U.S. visa requirements.
3. Keep Your Confirmation Number
- After submitting your application, you’ll receive a unique confirmation number.
- This number is essential for checking your selection status later, so keep it safe!
Warning: Be cautious of scams and fraud. The U.S. government never asks for payment to enter the lottery.
When Can You Apply?
The DV Lottery application period occurs once a year. The exact dates vary, but typically:
- Applications open in early October and close in early November.
- The official dates are announced on the DOS website.
Tip: Apply early to avoid last-minute technical issues!
How Will You Know If You’re Selected?
The DOS randomly selects applicants through a computerized lottery system. To check if you’ve been selected:
- Visit the Entrant Status Check Portal.
- Enter your confirmation number (received at the time of application).
- Check your status starting in early May of the following year.
If You’re Selected, What’s Next?
Being selected doesn’t guarantee a visa—there are additional steps:
- Submit the required documents.
- Complete a medical exam.
- Attend a visa interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate.
Important: There are only 55,000 visas available, so act fast if you’re selected!
Need Help With Your Diversity Visa Application?
Navigating the DV Lottery process can be complex, especially after you have been selected, and making mistakes can cost you your chance at a visa. If you have questions or need professional legal assistance, our experienced immigration attorneys at Solovyova Law Firm are here to help!
Contact us or schedule a consultation online today!
