How to Immigrate to the US through the Diversity Visa Program
If you are interested in moving to the United States through the US Diversity Visa Program, read the information we have provided below to learn more about how you can apply for the lottery program!
Interested in immigrating to the United States?
US Diversity Visa Lottery
What is the Diversity Visa Lottery?
There are several ways to immigrate to the United States such as family sponsorship or employment opportunities. An additional way to immigrate is through a lottery-based system called the Diversity Visa Program which presents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to thousands of foreign nationals each year.
The Diversity Visa Program, also known as the Diversity Visa Lottery, is a United States government program that allows up to 55,000 immigrants to be granted a green card each year. The program is designed to promote diversity and to give individuals from countries with historically low rates of immigration to the United States an opportunity to apply for a US Green Card.
Diversity Visa Lottery Eligibility
To be considered within the Diversity Visa Lottery, you will need to meet specific requirements such as:
- Be a native from a qualifying country
- Have high school education or equivalent, and
- Meet work experience requirements within the past 5 years
It’s important to note that not all countries are eligible for the program and the Department of State releases a new list of qualifying countries each year. If you’re not from a qualifying country, unfortunately, you won’t be eligible to apply.
Next US Green Card Lottery
The Diversity Visa Lottery 2024 application window will open Wednesday, October 5th, and close Tuesday, November 8 at noon.
How to Enter the Diversity Visa Program
The application period usually opens in October and lasts for about a month. After the application period closes, a computer-generated lottery will be conducted and winners will be selected. The selected applicants and their immediate family members will then be given the opportunity to apply for a US green card which allows them to live and work permanently.
Step 1 - Submit an entry
This can only be done within a limited period of time each year according to yearly instructions, which provide a time frame for when you can apply. Once submitted, note that you must check your status from time to time on the official Entrant Status Check page as confirmation of your approval will not be notified through mail or email.
The online registration period for 2024 begins Wednesday, October 5th, and concludes on Tuesday, November 8 at noon.
Step 2 - Wait for applicants to be selected
Step 3 - Confirm your qualifications
Once selected, you must ensure that you meet the requirements below to be eligible for a visa in this program.
- The principal applicant must have a high school education (or equivalent) or 2 years of work experience in the last 5 years in a qualified occupation. (Spouse or children do not need to meet these requirements)
- Must provide a valid passport number or fall under one of three exemptions (click here for the full set)
Step 4 - Apply for US Green Card
The principal applicant and all family members applying for this program must complete the online Immigrant Visa and Alien Registration Application (Form DS-260). Once this form is processed, you will receive instructions to submit supporting documents and information when your interview is ready
Step 5 - Submit supporting documents and complete medical exam
- Each family member applying for a visa must complete a medical exam and any required vaccinations with an approved physician prior to the interview
- Each applicant must provide 2 identical photos and all remaining required documents to the interview which include the Entrant Status Check appointment information, the DS-260 confirmation page, valid passports, and original documents or certified copies. Check here for the full set
- Each applicant must pay the Diversity Visa fee which varies between different U.S. Embassies and Consulates. Look into the specific instructions for the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you will be interviewed to follow payment procedures
Step 6 - Attend your Green Card interview
The principal applicant and their spouse as well as any qualified unmarried children immigrating are required to join the interview unless they are immigrating at a later date in which they will receive a separate interview. At the end of the interview applicants, you will be informed of approval or denial.
If approved, you will be informed how your passport and visa will be returned to you. If denied, you will be informed why you are ineligible to receive a visa.
Diversity Visa Program FAQ's
How much does the US Green Card lottery cost?
There is no fee to submit an entry for the Diversity Visa Lottery. However, if you are selected, you will need to pay the Green Card application fees.
Can I enter the Diversity Visa lottery living in the US?
Eligible candidates are able to enter the Diversity Visa Lottery from anywhere. Those already living in the United States on a temporary status but wanting to obtain a Green Card are eligible for this pathway!
Can my spouse submit a separate entry?
Yes! All adults eligible for the program can submit a single entry. If your spouse is selected, you would be granted a green card as their dependent!
How long does the US Green Card Lottery take?
Those selected within the Diversity Visa Lottery are usually notified within 7 months of submitting. If selected to apply for a green card, you can expect to wait 12- 14 months to apply, get an immigration interview scheduled, and receive your visa!
While a lengthy process, this program provides an extra opportunity to immigrate with simpler qualifications. When you've been selected for permanent residency, VisaPlace can help determine your eligibility, gather your documentation, and establish a plan through many of our services!
VisaPlace has helped many individuals successfully obtain a US Diversity Visa. Book a consultation to get started so we can help you too!