10 tips for applying for the US Visa Lottery

The United States Department of State will open online registrations for the Fiscal Year 2026 Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery on Wednesday, October 2, 2024, at noon Eastern Daylight Time (4pm Ghana time).

With up to 55,000 green cards up for grabs, here are ten essential tips to guide you through the application process and avoid common pitfalls:

Tip #1 – Check Your Eligibility
  
Before entering, visit travel.state.gov/dv to ensure you meet the qualifications. If you do not meet the requirements, do not enter the lottery.

Tip #2 – Submit Your Entry on the Official Website
  
The only way to enter the lottery is through dvprogram.state.gov. Beware of fraudulent sites or scams claiming to offer other routes.

Tip #3 – Entry is Free

There is no fee to enter the DV Lottery. Be cautious of individuals or companies that claim they can improve your chances for a fee or offer to complete your application at no cost.

Tip #4 – Complete Your Entry Yourself
 
Avoid using visa facilitators or third parties to submit your entry. Some facilitators may withhold your confirmation number and demand payment or other illegal activities in exchange for it.

Tip #5 – Use a Recent Photo

Ensure you use a photo taken within the last six months. Submitting an outdated photo will result in disqualification.

Tip #6 – Only One Entry Per Person

Submitting more than one entry per individual will lead to disqualification. Stick to one application for each person.

Tip #7 – Include All Family Members
 
Make sure to list your spouse and all unmarried children under 21 in your entry, even if they are not travelling or immigrating with you. Missing or incorrect information may disqualify your entry, even if you are selected.

Tip #8 – Keep Your Confirmation Number Safe

After submitting your application, you will receive a unique confirmation number. This number is the only way to check if you have been selected when the results are published in May 2025.

Tip #9 – Beware of Fraudulent Notifications

Selections will be announced in May 2025, and the only way to check is through the official DV lottery website at dvprogram.state.gov/ESC. Any email or phone notification claiming you have been selected is a scam, as the U.S. Department of State does not notify winners directly.

Tip #10 – Selection Doesn’t Guarantee a Visa

Being selected in the lottery does not guarantee a visa or interview. Since more applicants are selected than there are available visas, it is crucial to act promptly and meet all requirements.

The registration window closes on Tuesday, November 5, 2024, at noon EST. Eligible applicants should make sure to follow the guidelines and submit their entries through the official website. With careful preparation, you can maximise your chances of a successful application.