Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery

The Diversity Immigrant Visa Program makes 50,000 diversity visas available annually, drawn from random selection among entries of individuals who are from countries with low rates of immigration to the United States. 

The U.S. Department of State holds a lottery each year to determine who gets one of the 50,000 diversity visas available. You must apply through DOS during the online entry registration period, which typically runs from October through December of each year. Diversity visa lottery winners are notified by mail and, if they qualify, are granted a visa. You cannot enter the diversity visa lottery through the USCIS. Please contact us for more information on obtaining a diversity visa. Note that citizens of some countries are not eligible to apply for the diversity lottery.

To be eligible to obtain a green card through the Diversity Immigrant Visa Program, you must meet all of the following conditions:

• You were selected for the Diversity Visa Lottery Program by the U.S. DOS

• An immigrant visa is immediately available to you at the time you file for permanent residence

• You are admissible to the United States

You may be eligible to obtain a green card as a derivative applicant through the Diversity Immigrant Visa Program if you meet all of the following conditions:

• You are the spouse or child of the principal applicant

• An immigrant visa is immediately available to you at the time you file for permanent residence

• You are admissible to the United States

To determine whether this is an option for you based upon the details of your individual case, please contact our office to schedule a free consultation.