About the Diversity Visa Program (DV Lottery) Instructions
Your thorough manual on the U.S. Green Card Lottery, the official route to United States permanent residence.
Program Overview
Designed to diversify the U.S. immigrant population by choosing candidates from nations with historically low rates of immigration to the United States, the Diversity Immigrant Visa Program (DV Lottery) distributes up to 55,000 immigrant visas yearly through a randomized selection procedure.
Application timeline October to November
October - November
Registration Period
May
Results Announcement
October - September
Visa Processing
Ongoing
Fraud Prevention
Eligibility Requirements
Country of Birth Requirements
Candidates must be native citizens of nations with historically low immigration rates to the United States. Immigration numbers drive yearly adjustments in the list of qualified nations.
Education/Work Experience
A high school degree or its equivalent, OR two years of work experience during the preceding five years in an occupation needing at least two years of training or experience
Important Rules
- One entry each person year; repeated entries will disqualify you.
- Must satisfy all U.S. immigration criteria standards.
- Selection does not ensure visa issuing; you still have to be qualified.
- Must be able to financially support any dependents in the United States as well as yourself Program Benefits Green Card granting lawful permanent residence status in the United States.
Program Benefits
Permanent Residency
Green Card granting legal permanent residence status in the United States.
Employment Authorization
Freedom to work without limits for any US company.
Education Access
Access to American educational institutions, eligibility for in-state tuition rates,
Fraud Prevention Tips
Official U.S. Government Warnings
The U.S. Department of State reports these common scam tactics:
- Fake websites mimicking the official DV Lottery portal (the only real site is dvprogram.state.gov)
- Email scams claiming you've won without entering, or requesting payment
- Guaranteed selection offers (the DV Lottery is completely random)
- Fake agents demanding money to "process" your application
Verified Facts
- The DV Lottery has no application fee (U.S. State Department)
- Winners are only notified by mail, never email or phone (USCIS)
- No third-party can increase your chances of selection (FTC)
How to Protect Yourself
- Always apply through the official .gov website
- Never share your confirmation number with others
- Report suspicious activity to dvlottery.state.gov/scams
Official Resources & Safety
Important Safety Tips
- Only use the official U.S. Department of State website
- Never pay for DV Lottery entry - it's completely free
- Beware of fraudulent websites and email scams
- Keep your confirmation number secure and private
This information is provided for general guidance only. Program details may change. Always refer to official U.S. Department of State sources for the most current and accurate information about the Diversity Visa Program.