The Diversity Visa (DV) program, also known as the Green Card Lottery, is a U.S. government initiative that provides an opportunity for individuals from countries with historically low rates of immigration to the United States to apply for permanent residency, or a green card. The program aims to promote diversity in the immigrant population of the United States by offering visas to individuals from a wide range of countries and backgrounds.
Each year, the U.S. Department of State conducts a random lottery selection process to allocate a limited number of Diversity Visas, typically around 55,000, to eligible applicants from countries with low rates of immigration to the United States. To participate in the DV lottery, applicants must meet certain eligibility criteria, including having a high school education or equivalent work experience, and being a native of a qualifying country.
The application process for the Diversity Visa program usually occurs online through the official U.S. government website during a specified registration period, typically in the fall of each year. Applicants must submit an electronic entry form with their personal information, including their name, date of birth, country of birth, and digital photograph.
Winning the Diversity Visa lottery does not guarantee a green card, as selected applicants must still undergo a thorough background check, medical examination, and interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate to determine their eligibility for immigrant status. However, being selected in the lottery provides applicants with the opportunity to apply for permanent residency in the United States, subject to meeting all legal and procedural requirements.
