Diversity Visa Program

Established to promote diversity among immigrant populations, the DV program offers a unique pathway to legal residency for individuals from countries with historically low rates of immigration to the U.S. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into what the Diversity Visa program entails, who is eligible to apply, and how you can increase your chances of success.

What is the Diversity Visa Program?

The Diversity Visa program, also known as the Green Card Lottery, was introduced by the U.S. government in 1990 as part of the Immigration Act. Its primary aim is to diversify the immigrant population by granting up to 55,000 immigrant visas annually to individuals from countries with low rates of immigration to the United States.

Eligibility Criteria for Diversity Visa

To be eligible for the Diversity Visa program, applicants must meet the following criteria:

1. Be a native of a qualifying country: The DV program is open to individuals from countries with historically low rates of immigration to the United States. Each year, the list of eligible countries is updated, and individuals born in countries that have sent more than 50,000 immigrants to the U.S. in the past five years are not eligible.
2. Education or Work Experience: Applicants must have either a high school education or its equivalent, defined as successful completion of a 12-year course of elementary and secondary education, or two years of work experience within the past five years in an occupation that requires at least two years of training or experience.
3. Pass the DV Lottery: Eligible applicants must enter the DV lottery during the specified registration period. Only one entry per person is allowed, and submitting multiple entries will result in disqualification.

What countries are eligible for diversity visa?

Countries that have sent fewer than 50,000 immigrants to the United States in the past 5 years are eligible for the Diversity Visa Lottery. The specific list of eligible countries changes every year, but some countries are never eligible because they consistently send a high number of immigrants to the US. These include:

• Canada
• China (including Hong Kong)
• India
• Mexico
• United Kingdom

You can find the official list of ineligible countries for the most recent Diversity Visa Lottery on the U.S. Department of State website.

How to Apply for Diversity Visa

The application process for the Diversity Visa program is relatively straightforward:

1. Check Eligibility: Ensure that you meet all the eligibility criteria outlined by the U.S. Department of State.
2. Complete the DV Lottery Entry: During the registration period, submit your entry online through the official DV lottery website.
3. Await Selection Results: After the registration period closes, the lottery drawing takes place, and selected individuals are notified via the Entrant Status Check available on the DV lottery website.
4. Complete Visa Application: If selected, applicants must complete a visa application, attend an interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate, and provide supporting documentation.

How many Diversity Visa winners each year?

Each year, the Diversity Visa (DV) program allocates up to 55,000 immigrant visas to winners selected through the DV lottery. These visas are distributed among six geographic regions, with a certain number reserved for each region. The allocation of visas aims to ensure diversity among immigrant populations coming to the United States.

It’s important to note that being selected as a DV lottery winner does not guarantee the issuance of a visa. Winners must still meet all eligibility requirements, complete the visa application process, attend an interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate, and provide all necessary documentation as required by the U.S. Department of State. Additionally, some winners may be placed on a waiting list if the annual visa quota for their region has been reached.

How much is the fee for Diversity Visa?

The fees associated with the Diversity Visa (DV) program vary depending on various factors such as visa type, processing location, and additional services required. Here’s a breakdown of the typical fees applicants might encounter:

1. Diversity Visa Lottery Entry Fee: There is no fee to enter the DV lottery. The application process is free, and individuals can submit their entries online through the official DV lottery website during the designated registration period.
2. Visa Application Fee (Immigrant Visa Processing Fee): If selected as a DV lottery winner and proceeding with the visa application process, applicants are required to pay a visa application fee. The immigrant visa processing fee for the DV program is around $330 per person. This fee is paid to the U.S. Department of State and is non-refundable.
3. Medical Examination Fee: As part of the visa application process, applicants are typically required to undergo a medical examination conducted by an authorized physician. The cost of the medical examination varies by country and healthcare provider.
4. Other Possible Fees: Depending on individual circumstances, applicants may incur additional fees for services such as translation of documents, obtaining supporting documentation, or travel expenses associated with attending the visa interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate.

Tips for Success

While the Diversity Visa program offers a unique opportunity for individuals seeking to immigrate to the United States, the competition can be fierce. Here are some tips to increase your chances of success:

1. Submit Accurate Information: Ensure that all information provided in your DV lottery entry and visa application is accurate and truthful.
2. Double-Check Eligibility: Confirm that you meet all eligibility criteria before submitting your DV lottery entry.
3. Apply Early: Don’t wait until the last minute to submit your DV lottery entry. Submitting early can help avoid any technical issues or delays.
4. Seek Professional Assistance: Consider seeking assistance from immigration professionals or attorneys who can guide you through the application process and ensure everything is in order.

Take the first step towards unlocking opportunity and apply for the Diversity Visa program today with Rebecca Black Immigration, PA.