The Diversity Visa Program (DV Program) is a unique immigration initiative created by the United States government to promote diversity among immigrants entering the country. Commonly referred to as the U.S. Visa Lottery or Green Card Lottery, the DV Program provides eligible individuals from countries with historically low rates of immigration to the United States an opportunity to obtain lawful permanent residence.
The DV Program is popularly known as a “lottery” because selection is made through a randomized, computer-generated process. Each year, the U.S. Department of State makes up to 55,000 immigrant visas available under this program. Successful selectees may apply for a U.S. green card, allowing them to live and work permanently in the United States.
One of the core objectives of the DV Program is to encourage immigration diversity by balancing overall immigration numbers across different regions of the world. By allocating visas to underrepresented countries, the program helps ensure a more globally diverse immigrant population in the United States, reinforcing the program’s intent as the American Diversity Visa system.
The American DV system operates through an annual online registration process, followed by the random selection of qualified applicants. Selection in the lottery does not guarantee a visa; rather, it allows selected individuals to continue with the formal immigrant visa application process, including background checks, documentation review, and consular interviews.
Despite its straightforward concept, the American DV / American Lottery is often misunderstood. Many applicants mistakenly believe the program guarantees a green card, increases chances through paid agents, or operates outside of U.S. immigration law. In reality, the DV Program is governed by strict legal regulations, and accuracy, eligibility, and compliance play a critical role in success.
This guide by Gehis Immigration and International Legal Services provides a comprehensive breakdown of the DV Program, including eligibility requirements, application procedures, how to check lottery results, and the essential steps to take after selection, helping applicants approach the process with clarity, confidence, and lawful guidance.
What Is the DV Program?
The Diversity Visa (DV) Program, widely known as the DV Lottery, Green Card Lottery, or U.S. Diversity Visa, is an annual immigrant visa program established by the U.S. government to diversify the country’s immigrant population. It offers a way to lawful permanent residence for individuals from countries with low immigration rates to the United States.
The DV Program is an annual lottery administered by the U.S. Department of State that makes up to 55,000 immigrant visas available each fiscal year. Applicants who meet specific education or work experience requirements may enter the lottery for a chance to apply for a U.S. green card.
Origin and Legal Basis Under the U.S. Immigration and Nationality Act
The DV Program was created under the Immigration Act of 1990, amending the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). Congress established the program to encourage diversity among immigrants and provide opportunities to nationals of countries that send fewer immigrants to the U.S. The program continues to operate annually under federal law and State Department regulations.
The primary purpose of the U.S. Diversity Visa Program is to widen the geographic representation of immigrants entering the United States. It supports the U.S. goal of fostering diversity by allowing qualified applicants from underrepresented countries a fair and equal opportunity to immigrate.
While most U.S. green cards are issued through family petitions or employment sponsorship, the DV Program does not require a family sponsor or an employer. Key differences include:
- No sponsorship required; applicants enter on their own.
- No job offer needed, unlike many employment-based visas.
- Random selection rather than priority-based queues.
- Strict annual caps with limited visas per region and country.
The DV Program is therefore often the only realistic route for individuals without family ties or employer sponsorship in the United States.
Yes, the DV Program uses a computerized random selection process, making it a genuine lottery. However, selection is subject to:
- Regional quotas, ensuring equal geographic representation
- Country limits prevent any single country from dominating
- Strict eligibility screenings are applied after selection
Being selected in the DV Lottery does not guarantee approval. It only grants the opportunity to apply for a green card and complete the full immigrant visa process.
How the American DV Lottery Works
The American DV Lottery, also known as the American Diversity Visa Lottery Program, follows a structured annual process that ensures fairness, transparency, and equal opportunity for eligible applicants worldwide. Understanding the yearly intake system is essential for anyone planning to participate.
The DV Program operates on a once-a-year registration cycle, typically released by the U.S. Department of State between October and November. During this period, applicants must submit their entries online through the official portal. Late entries, paper submissions, and duplicate submissions are not accepted.
After the registration window closes, applicants must wait until the following May, when DV results are announced through the Entrant Status Check system.
Each fiscal year, the DV Program makes up to 55,000 visas available. These visas are divided among the world’s six major geographic regions. This numerical limit includes derivatives (spouses and children), meaning the total number of green cards issued varies based on the family sizes of selectees.
The Diversity Visa Program divides the world into the following regions:
- Africa
- Asia
- Europe
- Oceania
- North America (typically only the Bahamas)
- South America, Central America, and the Caribbean
Key distribution rules:
- Regions with higher historical immigration rates receive fewer visas.
- Regions with lower immigration rates receive more visas.
- No single country can receive more than 7% of all available DV visas in a given year.
This system ensures that the American DV Lottery remains true to its purpose—promoting global diversity.
Eligibility is determined based on historical immigration numbers to the U.S. over the previous five years.
- Countries with high immigration rates become ineligible for that year.
- Countries with low immigration rates remain eligible.
Typically, ineligible countries often include:
- India
- China (mainland-born)
- Mexico
- Canada
- Brazil
- Philippines
- Nigeria
The Department of State updates the eligible countries list annually.
Some regions experience exceptionally high participation in the DV Program. Nepal, in particular, is one of the most active countries within the Asian region for the Diversity Visa Nepal category.
Key points about Nepal’s DV participation:
- Nepal frequently receives a significant share of Asia’s DV selectees.
- Nepali applicants are subject to strict photo, entry, and documentation compliance due to high demand.
- Accurate entry submission is critical to avoid disqualification, especially in high-volume countries.
Many applicants from Nepal, Ethiopia, Ghana, and other high-interest countries rely on professional legal services to avoid common mistakes such as duplicate entries or invalid photographs.
DV Program Eligibility Requirements
To participate successfully in the DV Program (Diversity Visa Lottery), applicants must meet specific eligibility requirements set by the U.S. Department of State. Failure to meet even one requirement can lead to immediate disqualification. Understanding these criteria is essential for anyone asking, “What are the eligibility requirements for the DV Program?”
Educational Qualification Requirements
Applicants must satisfy at least one of the following:
- High School Education or Equivalent:
Completion of a formal 12-year course of elementary and secondary education comparable to a U.S. high school degree.
- Recognized Equivalent Certification:
Certificates accepted by the U.S. Department of State as equivalent to high school completion.
Important Notes:
- Vocational degrees that do not meet academic high school equivalency may not qualify.
- GED or adult education credentials may not be accepted, depending on the issuing country.
Work Experience Requirements
Applicants who do not meet the education requirement may qualify through work experience. This must meet strict criteria:
- At least 2 years of work experience within the past 5 years.
- The job must fall under Job Zone 4 or 5 as defined by the U.S. Department of Labor (O*NET database).
- The occupation must require at least 2 years of training or experience to perform.
Examples of qualifying occupations:
- Professional technicians
- Skilled supervisors
- Certain specialized trades
Country of Chargeability Explained
Eligibility is based on your country of birth, not nationality or residence. This rule is known as “chargeability.”
You may still qualify through alternate chargeability if:
- Your spouse was born in an eligible country
- You were born in a country where neither parent was a resident at the time
- You can legally claim the chargeability of a parent’s country of birth
Disqualification Factors Applicants Must Avoid
Even eligible individuals can be denied if they violate DV Program rules. Common disqualification factors include:
- Duplicate entries in the same year
- Incorrect or outdated photographs
- Submitting false or incorrect information
- Missing required personal details
- Failure to meet education or work standards
- Late submission outside the registration period
- Fraudulent information submitted by third-party agents
Common Eligibility Mistakes That Lead to Rejection
The following mistakes often cause an otherwise eligible entry to be disqualified:
- Using a photo older than 6 months
- Photos edited or digitally altered
- Misreporting marital status
- Forgetting to include all eligible children
- Incorrect country of chargeability
- Submitting entries through unverified or fraudulent agents
- Using unofficial websites that scam applicants
Common Errors That Can Disqualify a DV Application
Although the DV Program appears simple, it is governed by strict technical and legal requirements. Every year, thousands of otherwise eligible applicants are disqualified due to avoidable mistakes. Understanding these common errors is essential to protecting your chances in the U.S. Visa Lottery.
Duplicate Entries
Submitting more than one DV entry in the same year results in automatic disqualification, regardless of intent.
- Only one entry per person per year is allowed.
- Multiple submissions, whether done personally or through an agent, will void all entries.
- Married couples may each submit separate entries, but each must list the other as a spouse.
Incorrect Photographs
Photo-related issues are among the most common technical reasons for rejection.
- Using a photo older than 6 months
- Photos with shadows, poor lighting, or colored backgrounds
- Wearing glasses, hats, or uniforms (except for religious attire)
- Digitally altered or filtered images
- Incorrect image size or resolution
- Reusing photos from previous DV applications
Fraudulent Information
Providing false or misleading information is a serious violation and can result in permanent ineligibility.
- Misstating marital status
- Omitting a spouse or child
- Claiming false education or work experience
- Using the incorrect country of chargeability
- Submitting fake documents
Late or Incomplete Submissions
The DV Program strictly enforces submission deadlines.
- Entries must be submitted within the official registration window.
- Incomplete forms or missing information invalidate the entry.
- Technical issues on the final day do not excuse late submissions.
How to Check DV Program Lottery Results
After submitting a DV entry, the only way to know whether you were selected in the DV Program is through the official Entrant Status Check system.
Official Entrant Status Check Portal Explained
The U.S. Department of State provides a secure online system, the Entrant Status Check, to view DV lottery results.
- This is the only official method to check results.
- The U.S. government does not send emails, letters, or phone calls to announce selections.
- Applicants must use their confirmation number, last name, and year of birth to access results.
Step-by-Step Process for DV Status Check / DV Visa Check
- Visit the official Entrant Status Check website during the results period.
- Select the appropriate DV Program year.
- Enter your confirmation number exactly as provided at submission.
- Enter your last/family name.
- Enter your year of birth.
- Submit the form to view your DV visa status.
The system will display one of two outcomes:
- Selected – You may proceed with the next steps of the immigrant visa process.
- Not Selected – Your entry was not chosen for that year.
When Lottery Results Are Announced
DV lottery results are typically available beginning in May of the year following registration.
- Results remain available for up to one year.
- Applicants should check multiple times, as status updates may occur.
- Selection does not expire immediately, but all processing must be completed within the fiscal year.
Difference Between Selection and Visa Approval
One of the most common misunderstandings is believing that selection equals visa approval.
- Selection means your entry was randomly chosen in the lottery.
- Visa approval requires completing Form DS-260, passing background checks, attending a consular interview, and meeting all legal requirements.
- Not all selected applicants will receive a green card due to visa caps and case number limits.
Recognizing Fraudulent “Selection” Notifications
Scams targeting DV applicants are common, especially around result announcement periods.
- Emails claiming “You have won the American Lottery.”
- Requests for payment to “release” results
- Messages asking for personal documents or bank details
- Websites imitating the official Entrant Status Check portal
- Agents claiming they can influence diversity lottery results
Next Steps After DV Lottery Selection
Being selected in the DV Lottery is a major milestone, but it is only the beginning of the immigration process. Selection does not guarantee a green card. Applicants must complete several mandatory steps accurately and on time to secure approval under the DV Program.
Completing Form DS-260 (Immigrant Visa Application)
After selection, applicants must complete Form DS-260, the official immigrant visa application.
- The form is completed online through the Consular Electronic Application Center (CEAC).
- Information must match the DV entry exactly; discrepancies can lead to denial.
- Applicants must disclose full immigration history, travel records, employment, education, and family details.
- Each derivative family member (spouse and children) must submit a separate DS-260.
Civil Documents and Background Checks
Applicants must gather and submit the required civil documents for verification.
- Birth certificates
- Passports
- Marriage and divorce certificates (if applicable)
- Police clearance certificates from all applicable countries
- Military records (if applicable)
- Court records (if applicable)
Consular Interview Preparation
Once a case number becomes current, applicants are scheduled for a consular interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate.
- Reviewing DS-260 responses for accuracy
- Organizing original documents and certified translations
- Completing required medical examinations with authorized physicians
- Preparing to answer questions about education, work experience, and eligibility
Addressing Inadmissibility and Waiver Considerations
Some applicants may face inadmissibility issues, including:
- Prior visa overstays or immigration violations
- Criminal history
- Medical grounds
- Misrepresentation or fraud
Can Professional Legal Services Improve DV Program Outcomes?
Many people wonder whether using a lawyer or a visa service company can actually improve their chances in the DV Program. The truth is simple and important to understand: no lawyer or service can increase your chances of winning the DV Lottery. The selection is completely random and handled by the U.S. government’s computer system. If anyone promises guaranteed selection or higher odds, that is a red flag and should be avoided.
Where professional help does make a real difference is in avoiding mistakes. Every year, thousands of applicants lose their chance not because they were ineligible, but because of small errors, wrong photos, duplicate entries, incorrect personal details, or misunderstanding eligibility rules. Immigration professionals focus on getting things right the first time, which helps prevent unnecessary rejections or delays.
Once someone is selected, the process becomes more detailed and time-sensitive. This is where guidance can be especially helpful. A careful review of the case helps applicants understand their case number, timelines, and any possible issues before moving forward. Knowing what to expect reduces stress and helps applicants stay on track.
Professional support is also valuable when preparing documents and getting ready for the interview. Having all paperwork in order, making sure forms are consistent, and being prepared for interview questions can make the process feel much more manageable. Confidence often comes from being prepared.
For applicants with more complicated situations, such as recent marriage, children close to the age limit, past visa problems, or other legal concerns, professional advice can be crucial. An experienced immigration attorney can explain available options and help handle sensitive issues properly. While DV Program application assistance services can’t change who gets selected, they can make a big difference in helping selected applicants successfully move forward and protect their opportunity for a U.S. green card.
Final Word
At Gehis Immigration and International Legal Services, we provide ethical and transparent guidance for the DV Program, focusing on accuracy and compliance rather than false promises. Our team reviews applications carefully to help applicants avoid common mistakes that can lead to disqualification.
For selected applicants, we develop a clear post-selection strategy, review case details, and assist with required documentation. We also help clients prepare for consular interviews, ensuring they understand the process and are fully prepared.
With extensive experience in U.S. immigration law, we support both simple and complex DV cases, helping clients move forward with confidence and clarity.
FAQS
How can I check DV Program lottery results quickly?
The fastest and only official way to check DV Program lottery results is through the U.S. Department of State’s Entrant Status Check portal. Applicants should keep their confirmation number safe and check results as soon as they are released, usually in May. The U.S. government does not send emails or messages announcingselection.
Where can I apply online for the DV Program?
Applications for the DV Program can only besubmitted through the official U.S. government website during the annual registration period. Applicants should avoid third-party websites that charge fees or claim to guarantee selection, as these are not authorized and may be fraudulent.
What are the best online tools for DV Program form submission?
Using a secure and updated web browser, reliable internet connection, and official photo validation tools is recommended. Applicants should alsomaintain a document checklist to ensure all required information is accurate and complete before submitting the DV form.
Can I use a visa service company to improve my DV Programapplication chances?
A visa service company or lawyer cannot increase your chances of being selected in the DV Lottery. However, professional services can help reduce errors, ensure compliance with program rules, and assist with post-selection processing.What are the eligibility requirements for the DV Program?
Applicants must meet education or work experience requirements and be born in an eligible country. Eligibility is based on education level, qualifying work experience, and country of chargeability, not on income or sponsorship.
How long does it take to process a DV Program application through professional services?
Theinitial DV entry is submitted during the registration period, and results are released the following May. If selected, processing can take several months to a year, depending on case number, document readiness, and interview scheduling.
Which companies offer DV Program applicationassistanceservices?
Many organizations offer DV Program assistance, but applicants should choose licensed, reputable immigration professionals. It is important to work with providers who are transparent, ethical, and experienced in U.S. immigration law, and who do not make unrealistic promises.
