Beginner’s Guide
The DV Lottery, officially known as the Diversity Visa Lottery, is one of the most popular and affordable ways to obtain permanent residency in the United States. Every year, millions of people from eligible countries apply for this program with the hope of securing a U.S. Green Card and starting a new life in America.
If you’re completely new to the DV Lottery and feel confused by terms like eligibility, registration dates, selection results, and interviews, this guide is designed for you. Below, we break everything down in clear, simple language, step by step, so beginners can fully understand how the DV Lottery works and what to expect.
What Is the DV Lottery?
The DV Lottery is a U.S. government immigration program created to promote diversity among immigrants entering the United States. Each year, up to 55,000 Diversity Visas (Green Cards) are made available to people from countries with historically low immigration rates to the U.S.
Unlike employment or family-based visas, the DV Lottery does not require a job offer, sponsor, or family member in the U.S. Selection is random, making it one of the few immigration programs open to ordinary applicants worldwide.
Why Does the DV Lottery Exist?
The DV Lottery was established under the Immigration Act of 1990 to balance U.S. immigration patterns. Since many immigrants come from a small number of countries, the program helps individuals from underrepresented nations gain lawful permanent residence.
This is why eligibility depends heavily on country of birth, not citizenship or residence.
Who Can Apply for the DV Lottery?
To apply for the DV Lottery, you must meet two basic requirements:
1. Country Eligibility
You must be born in a country that qualifies for the DV Lottery for that year. Countries with high immigration numbers to the U.S. (such as India, China, Mexico, and the Philippines) are usually excluded.
2. Education or Work Experience
You must have either:
- A high school education (or equivalent), or
- Two years of qualifying work experience in the last five years in an eligible occupation
If you do not meet both conditions, your application will be disqualified, even if you are selected.
When Can You Apply for the DV Lottery?
The DV Lottery opens once per year, typically:
- Registration Period: October–November
- Results Announcement: May of the following year
- Interviews & Visas Issued: October to September of the next year
For example, DV-2027 applications open in October 2025, with results released in May 2026.
How the DV Lottery Application Works (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Prepare Your Information
You’ll need:
- Passport details
- Accurate personal information
- Education or work history
- Eligible family details (spouse and children)
Step 2: Upload a Compliant Photo
Photo requirements are strict. Many applicants are disqualified due to incorrect photo size, background, or facial positioning.
Step 3: Submit One Entry Only
You may submit only one application per year. Multiple entries result in automatic disqualification.
Step 4: Save Your Confirmation Number
After submission, you receive a confirmation number. This is the only way to check your results later.
Many applicants choose professional assistance, such as the US Green Card Office, to ensure their DV Lottery entry meets all technical and eligibility requirements and avoids common mistakes.
How Are DV Lottery Winners Selected?
Selection is done using a computer-generated random draw. There is no interview, scoring system, or favouritism at the selection stage.
More people are selected than visas available because many applicants fail to proceed, miss deadlines, or are later found ineligible.
Being selected does not guarantee a Green Card, it simply allows you to continue the process.
What Happens After You Are Selected?
If selected, you must:
- Complete immigrant visa forms
- Submit civil documents
- Attend a visa interview.
- Pass medical and background checks.
Failure at any stage can result in denial.
Can the DV Lottery Lead to U.S. Citizenship?
Yes. If approved:
- You receive a Green Card.
- After 5 years, you may apply for U.S. citizenship (if eligible)
Common DV Lottery Mistakes Beginners Make
- Submitting multiple entries
- Incorrect photo specifications
- Missing family members
- Using unofficial or scam websites
- Losing the confirmation number
Professional services like the US Green Card Office help reduce these risks by reviewing entries and guiding applicants through the process year-round.
Is the DV Lottery Free?
Yes, entering the DV Lottery is free (up to DV-2026). However, fees apply later if you are selected, including visa processing and medical exams.
DV Lottery Myths vs Facts
Myth: Paying increases your chances
Fact: Selection is random
Myth: Students cannot apply
Fact: Students can apply if the education criteria are met
Myth: You’ll be notified by email
Fact: Results must be checked online
Why Many Applicants Use Professional Help
Although the DV Lottery is free, small mistakes can permanently disqualify you. Many applicants rely on professional guidance to:
- Ensure correct eligibility
- Submit compliant photos
- Avoid technical errors
- Track deadlines year-round
This is why many people choose trusted services like US Green Card Office, especially if applying for the first time.