The Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery, commonly known as the Green Card Lottery, is an annual program administered by the U.S. Department of State. It offers individuals from countries with historically low rates of immigration to the United States the opportunity to apply for permanent residency. For those who submitted entries for the DV-2025 program during the registration period from October 4, 2023, to November 7, 2023, the results are now available.
Checking Your DV-2025 Results
As of May 4, 2024, applicants can check their status by visiting the Entrant Status Check page on the official DV program website. To access your results, you'll need your:
- Confirmation Number: Provided at the time of your original application submission.
- Last/Family Name: As entered in your DV Lottery application.
- Year of Birth: Your birth year.
It's crucial to retain your confirmation number, as it's the only means to check your status. The Entrant Status Check will remain available until September 30, 2025.
Understanding the Selection Process
Selection in the DV Lottery is conducted through a randomized computer drawing. For DV-2025, up to 55,000 diversity visas are available. However, being selected does not guarantee you'll receive a visa. The number of selectees exceeds the number of available visas to account for applicants who may not proceed with their application or who may be found ineligible. Therefore, it's imperative to act promptly if you're selected.
Next Steps for Selectees
If you're among those selected, congratulations! Here's what you should do next:
- Submit Form DS-260: Complete the Online Immigrant Visa Application (Form DS-260). This form collects essential information about you and your background.
- Prepare Supporting Documents: Gather necessary documents, such as birth certificates, passports, marriage certificates (if applicable), and police certificates. Ensure all documents are accurate and up-to-date.
- Schedule and Attend the Visa Interview: After submitting Form DS-260 and the required documents, you'll receive instructions on scheduling an interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate in your country. During the interview, a consular officer will assess your eligibility.
- Undergo Medical Examination: Prior to the interview, complete a medical examination by an authorized physician. The results will be sent directly to the embassy or consulate.
- Pay Required Fees: Be prepared to pay the visa application and associated fees. Keep receipts as proof of payment.
- Await Visa Issuance: If approved, you'll receive a visa stamped in your passport, allowing you to travel to the United States. Ensure you enter the U.S. before the visa expires.
Important Considerations
- Beware of Scams: The U.S. Department of State will not notify selectees by email or mail. The only way to check your status is through the official Entrant Status Check. Be cautious of fraudulent emails or letters claiming you've won and requesting payment.
- Act Promptly: All DV-2025 applicants must be found eligible for and obtain their visa or adjust status by the end of the fiscal year 2025, which is September 30, 2025. Delays could jeopardize your opportunity.
- Maintain Eligibility: Selection does not guarantee a visa. You must meet all eligibility requirements, including education or work experience criteria.
Looking Ahead: DV-2026 Program
For those interested in the upcoming DV-2026 program, the online registration period is expected to begin on Wednesday, October 2, 2024, at 12:00 noon, Eastern Daylight Time (EDT), and conclude on Thursday, November 7, 2024, at 12:00 noon, Eastern Standard Time (EST). Specific dates and instructions will be announced on the official DV program website. Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria and prepare your application accordingly.
Participating in the DV Lottery is a significant opportunity for many aspiring to live and work in the United States. Stay informed, follow official guidelines, and best of luck on your journey toward obtaining a U.S.
