You have decided to go ahead and apply for the Diversity Immigrant Visa Lottery program commonly referred to as DV Lottery. The final step is to await the notification that confirms your eligibility to move forward with the green card application process. To learn more about the requirements and application steps, this guide is for you.
Checking Your Status: Welcome to the website for DV Lottery Updates
To apply for the DV Lottery, use the internet. Winners are not notified by mail or email. Check your status online. Apply between October and November for the following year’s lottery. Check your status from May onwards. If you win, gather documents quickly for the green card application. Winners must apply for DV visas by September 30th of the following year. Apply early because there are more winners than available visas.
Navigating the Entrant Status Check
Have your DV Lottery confirmation number ready, which consists of 16 digits and starts with the lottery year, like 2022 or 2023. You’ll also need your last name and birth year. To confirm your identity, enter the characters from the image in the text box below.
If you’ve misplaced your confirmation number, visit the Entrant Status Check website. You’ll need the email address you used for registration and other identifying information. Note that the U.S. Department of State will not provide your confirmation number through any other means.
Selected entrants will receive good news and instructions based on their current country. If you’re travelling abroad, you’ll encounter an immigrant visa application. If you’re in the U.S. and eligible for adjustment of status, you’ll receive relevant information for that process. In either case, you’ll need to prove your education or work experience and eligibility to enter the U.S. Consider consulting a professional immigration lawyer for assistance with your application paperwork.
Beware of DV Visa Lottery Scams
The only way to check if you’ve won the DV Lottery is through the Entrant Status Check. The U.S. government won’t email or mail you about it.
Beware of scams promising faster processing or special treatment for a fee. Some may even send fake emails pretending to be from the U.S. government, asking for money for visa fees. These scams aim to steal your personal information and exploit your dreams of living and working in the U.S.
Are there any specific documents needed to confirm my selection
To confirm your selection for the Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery, you will need to provide specific documents during the visa application process. Here are the essential documents typically required:
Confirmation of Selection:
You must present your Selection Letter, which you receive after checking your status on the DV Lottery website. This letter includes your case number and confirmation of your selection.
Visa Application Form:
Complete and submit Form DS-260, which is the Online Immigrant Visa and Alien Registration Application.
Passport: A valid passport that has not expired and is valid for at least six months beyond your intended date of entry into the United States.
Photographs: Two recent passport-sized photographs that meet the U.S. visa photo requirements.
Civil Documents: You will need to provide civil documents such as:
- Birth certificate
- Marriage certificate (if applicable)
- Police clearance certificates from all countries where you have lived since age 16
- Military records (if applicable)
Medical Examination Results: A report from an approved physician confirming that you have undergone a medical examination as required for the visa process.
Financial Evidence: Proof of financial support, such as:
- Affidavit of Support (Form I-864) if someone is sponsoring you
- Bank statements or employment letters demonstrating your ability to support yourself financially in the U.S.
Educational and Employment Documents:
While not always required, having documentation of your education and work experience can be beneficial, especially if they relate to your qualifications for the DV Lottery.
As you embark on your DV Lottery journey, knowledge is your most potent ally. Understanding the selection process and utilizing the Entrant Status Check promptly will ensure that you stay informed about your application’s progress. Remember, only trust the official channels provided by the U.S. Department of State to avoid falling victim to scams.
In summary, the path to discovering your DV Lottery fate is clear—check your status diligently, stay informed, and protect yourself from potential scams. With the right approach, you can navigate this exciting opportunity for U.S. permanent residence.
How Law and Visas Can Help?
At Law and Visas, our team of expert immigration consultants is here to make your travel to the United States straightforward and successful. Whether you’re applying for an EB-3 Visa or Family-Sponsored Immigrant Visa, we handle every step—from preparing your application to gathering the required documents.
Our Immigration Consultants and Lawyers ensure that your application meets the highest standards, with no details missed. We’ll also keep you informed throughout the process and coordinate with the immigration office or embassy on your behalf.
Law and Visas has a strong record of helping clients secure the visas/permits they need to visit the United States. Call us today at +234 812 5505 986 to learn how we can assist you.