The DV-2011 green card lottery will begin October 2, 2009 and close November 30, 2009. Watch the DV-2011 page for new information.
If you're entering this year's lottery, make sure you're prepared. Below, you'll find answers to your frequently asked questions about the green card lottery and the resources you need to help you submit an entry.
Good luck!
DV-2011 Green Card Lottery - Now Open
DV-2010 applications will be accepted during a 60-day period beginning October 2009. Find out more about the DV-2011 green card lottery including submission dates, what's new in this year's lottery and more!
DV-2010 Green Card Lottery - Closed
DV-2010 applications were accepted between October 2, 2008 and December 1, 2008. Find out more about the DV-2010 green card lottery including results.
Popular Questions
What is the Diversity Visa Program?
The diversity visa program, better known as the green card lottery, provides individuals from countries with low immigration to the U.S., an opportunity to live and work permanently in the United States.
How Many Diversity Visas Are Issued Each Year?
Up to 55,000 immigrant visas are available each year as part of the diversity visa program, but only 50,000 of these visas are allocated to the green card lottery. Find out where the other 5,000 visas end up.
What are the DV Green Card Lottery Entry Requirements?
There are two basic entry requirements for the DV green card lottery.
When Can I Apply?
Registration in the diversity visa program coincides with the beginning of the government's fiscal year.
Is There a Fee to Register?
There is no fee to register in the green card lottery but you will need to cover normal immigrant visa processing fees if you are selected for a diversity visa.
Do I Need to Hire a Lawyer to Register in the Lottery?
Green card lottery applications are straight-forward and can be easily completed without obtaining legal advice. However, errors made on the application could make you ineligible for selection, so weigh the pros and cons carefully before making a decision.
What Are the Education or Work Experience Requirements?
All green card lottery entrants must meet either the education or work experience requirements to be eligible for the DV program.
What Occupations Qualify For the DV Green Card Lottery?
Learn how to find what occupations qualify for the DV green card lottery work experience requirement.
How Does the Random Drawing Work?
A little work is needed before the random drawing can take place.
When Does the Random Drawing Take Place?
Once registration is complete, things move quickly. You will know if you're a lottery winner in five to nine months.
How Will I Know if I'm a Lottery Winner?
Millions apply for a diversity visa, but only those selected will receive notification.
Will I Receive Notification if I'm Not a Lottery Winner?
Don't expect a letter in the mail if you haven't been selected.
Can I Confirm Whether or Not I Was Selected as a Green Card Lottery Winner?
Beginning with the DV-2010 selection, applicants can check their entry status online.
What Are My Chances of Winning the Green Card Lottery?
Millions of green card lottery entries are made every year, but what are your actual chances of winning?
Enter Online
You can apply online at the U.S. Department of State's web site. Here, you'll be able to read the entry instructions, verify that your picture meets the requirements with the photo validator, and finally submit your online entry form. Note: Submissions are not currently being accepted. Registration for the DV-2011 green card lottery will begin October 2, 2009.
Green Card Lottery Forum
Join us at the Green Card Lottery Forum to ask questions about the lottery, express your opinion and share information.
Call For Stories
If you're successful with the green card lottery, I'd love to profile your story on Immigration Issues at About.com. Send me an e-mail at immigration.guide@about.com.
