The Diversity Visa Immigrant Program is a concept unique to the US that isn’t offered by any other country. It’s more commonly known as the Green Card Lottery, which should indicate a bit more clearly what it’s about.

Numerous articles on our website detail the Diversity Visa Program, so we won’t cover that in too much detail here. We’ll still give a brief description, but instead, we’ll focus mainly on how to apply with the greatest chance of success.

What is the Diversity Visa Immigrant Program?

Simply put, the Diversity Immigrant Visa Program is a scheme that awards Green Cards. It’s specifically designed to increase diversity in the US (hence the name) by targeting countries with low immigration rates.

It began in 1990 and has been a massive success. Each year, 50,000 visas are awarded randomly through a lottery-style draw. Unlike other methods for obtaining a Green Card, applicants don’t need a US-based sponsor, providing more freedom.

To qualify for the Green Card lottery, applicants must meet two criteria: first, they must be natives of, or married to, a native of, a qualified country. Second, they must have the equivalent of a high school education or work experience in a field requiring at least two years of training. The spouse and minor children of any winner will also qualify for permanent residency.

The Green Card Program selection process is random and computer-generated. Around 125,000 people are usually chosen to apply for Green Cards. The reason the number is so much higher than the 50,000 spots available is that many who win turn out to be ineligible later in the process or simply decide not to apply. If you are chosen, be sure to apply as quickly as possible so you don’t risk losing your spot.

How to Apply for the Diversity Immigrant Visa Program

The only method for applying for the Green Card Lottery is online. There are no paper applications or offices where an application can be taken. Because the online process tends to get bogged down toward the end of that period, it’s best to apply as early as possible. A relatively large percentage of applications are disqualified due to errors, so be sure to follow instructions closely.

These last two points lead us to our essential tips for applying for the Diversity Visa Program.

When to Apply for the Diversity Visa Immigrant Program

Generally, applications open towards the beginning of the American fiscal year (October). The registration period usually starts about a week into October and runs for about a month.

Considering how many people apply, this is quite a short period. As such, our first tip is to submit your entry as soon as you can. Nothing is stopping you from having everything ready before registration opens. In fact, this is the better way to do it, as it can take a while to fill in the forms and gather your evidence.

While you can apply independently using the free service on www.state.gov, submitting the forms through an approved immigration professional can help with time management. This is because the company can ensure everything is completed in advance, meaning you can submit it almost immediately.

Getting the Forms Correct for the Diversity Visa Immigrant Program

For the most part, it’s not challenging to fill in a Diversity Visa Program form. It’s generally just your personal information along with supporting documents. However, up to 65% of applications can be rejected due to minor errors.

So, although it seems obvious, ensure your information is correct, and that you’ve filled the forms in properly. Again, enlisting the help of a professional immigration service is a good idea because they have plenty of experience.

Incorrect photos are a particularly common reason for rejection. Using an immigration agency will ensure that they can check your photos before you submit them, thus reducing your chances of rejection and increasing your chances of winning a green card.

Waiting for the Results can be a long wait.

When your application is accepted, there’s not much else you can do but wait. It takes around 7-12 months for results to be posted, and you need to check on the Diversity Visa Program website – you won’t be notified directly unless you have used the value-added service from the US GREEN CARD OFFICE. In that case, you will be contacted directly by our immigration offices as soon as the result is out

Results are tied to your application number, essentially your lottery entry. The draw is completely random, and there’s nothing you can do to influence your number being picked.

If your number is picked, you’re one step closer to getting a Green Card. However, you are still a few steps ahead. Specifically, you must attend a Visa Interview at your nearest Embassy or Consulate of the United States. This stage can take more than a year, so don’t expect this to be immediate.

Final Thoughts on the Diversity Immigrant Visa Program

The Green Card Program is an excellent way to bypass some of the complicated family and employment requirements that applicants typically experience. If you’re born in a qualifying country, be sure to apply for a Green Card every year at the US Green Card Office. You can also apply online by clicking the green apply button below. What are you waiting for? Let your dream come true.