Are you looking for a chance to gain permanent residency in the United States? You can register in 2024 for the 2025 Diversity Lottery Visa program via the State Department Website, during the set time (usually early October until a date in early November). In prior years, the filing date was October 5 through November 8. It is expected that results for the Diversity Immigrant Visa Program 2025 (also called the Electronic Diversity Visa) will be announced in May, 2024.  

This article provides an overview of the eligibility criteria, application process, and tips for successfully submitting your entry to this program. 

What you need to know about the Diversity Lottery Visa?

The Diversity Visa program, also called the Green Card Lottery, is an opportunity for people from countries with low immigration rates to the US to gain residency. Every year, the U.S. Department of State randomly chooses 55,000 foreign nationals to legally immigrate to the US.

The period for submitting applications is open from the beginning of October until the start of November annually. The government says to enter early, as website delays usually happen due to high demand. There is no fee to register; however, you can only enter with one entry—if you have more than one, you’ll be disqualified.

What are the eligibility criteria for the Diversity Visa Program?

There are simple but strict eligibility requirements:

Be a citizen of an eligible country: Nationals from countries that have sent a significant number of immigrants to the U.S. in the past five years are not eligible. The list of eligible countries may change each year. 

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Applicants must have citizenship from one of the countries listed here.

You may be eligible for the program if your spouse or parent is a native of a country included in the list provided above. If you are a native from one of the following countries, you are not eligible for this period:

Education or Work Experience: Applicants must have at least a high school diploma or its equivalent. Or two years of work experience over the past five years in an eligible field that requires at least two years of training. 

Tips Infographic of Diversity Visa Lottery

Tips for successfully submitting your entry for the Diversity Visa Lottery program:

By following these tips, you’ll be well prepared to navigate the Diversity Visa Lottery program and stay informed about your application status and next steps.

  1. Use the Official Website: Submit your Electronic Diversity Visa Entry Form (E-DV Entry Form or DS-5501) exclusively through the official website at dvprogram.state.gov. Will not accept entries sent by other means.
  2. No Submission Fee: There is no cost associated with submitting the online entry form. Be cautious of any websites or individuals requesting payment for this service.
  3. Update Your Browser: Make sure to use an updated web browser when submitting your application. Older browsers, like Internet Explorer 8, may encounter compatibility issues with the online DV system.
  4. Access to Your Email: Make sure that you have continued access to the email account listed in your DV entry. This email account is important for receiving notifications and updates regarding your entry status.
  5. Print Your Confirmation Screen: After submitting a complete entry, make sure to print the confirmation screen, which contains your name and a unique confirmation number. Keep this document safe for your records.
  6. Check Your Entry Status: Starting May, visit “Entrant Status Check” to see the green card lottery results. Enter your confirmation number and personal information.
  7. Use Entrant Status Check for Updates: If selected, you’ll receive a confirmation page with further instructions, including information about immigration fees. Entrant Status Check is the only official notification method; there are no mailed letters or email notifications.
  8. Admissibility Assessment: To immigrate, DV selectees must be admissible to the United States. The DS260 application and consular interviews will assess eligibility under U.S. law, covering criminal and security-related topics.
  9. Visa Issuance Deadline: By September, everyone, including family members, must get a visa. After this date, the government won’t approve new DV or adjustment visas or let family members join the principal applicant in the United States.
  10. Be wary of scams: Be careful of emails or websites that ask for money or immigration information. Forms and information are available on the Department of State website. Some organizations or websites may try to charge fees for DV-related services, which could result in lost funds. Avoid sending money or personal data to these sources, as it may be used for identity theft. 

Remember that the U.S. government never sends emails to announce selection, and they won’t ask for money through mail or services like Western Union. 

Get advice from an immigration attorney if you have questions about your application or immigration status. This will make you more confident you’re doing the process correctly.

At Herman Legal Group, we understand the importance of the Diversity Visa Lottery and how it can impact your family. We will provide you with the guidance you need to make an informed decision and maximize your chances of success. We will also help you with any post-lottery issues you might encounter. Book a consultation with Herman Legal Group today and start your path to citizenship.

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