Diversity Visa / Green Card (DV Lottery)

United States · Consultation planning guide

Overview

A selection-based immigrant visa programme. Eligibility and entry rules are set for each programme year; being selected is only one stage of the process.

The Diversity Visa programme uses an entry and selection process followed by an immigration application for selected entrants. Read the instructions for the relevant programme year before entering. Registration is free through the government’s designated system. Keep your confirmation number so you can check your own entry status.

Check the official entry window and instructions. Government registration is free. Keep your own confirmation number; an entry or selection does not guarantee a visa.

Eligibility topics to review

• Programme-year country-of-birth eligibility rules
• The education or qualifying work-experience condition
• Accurate personal, family and photograph information required by the entry instructions

Preparation checklist

Planning examples, not a complete official document checklist.

• Country-of-birth and eligibility information
• Education or qualifying work history
• Entry confirmation and family details

Application stages

1. Read the programme-year instructions
   Check eligibility and the official registration period. Submit only one entry per person for that period.
2. Submit the entry and retain confirmation
   Use the official entry system. Keep control of your confirmation number and check status through the government channel.
3. If selected, follow the application instructions
   Selection is followed by further qualification checks and an immigrant visa application, supporting records and interview steps.
4. Review the final decision
   Follow the authority’s instructions. Selection by itself does not guarantee a visa.

Common question

Yes. Government registration is free. Any privately agreed preparation charge is separate and does not improve the chance of selection. Use the official programme instructions and retain your own confirmation number.

Official guidance

Confirm current eligibility, fees, procedures and conditions with the government authority. This guide supports a consultation and does not determine eligibility. Visa decisions are made by the relevant authority.

For the initial enquiry, share only a brief outline. Do not include passport scans, bank documents or sensitive personal records.