The Diversity Visa Program, Explained
Discover the timelines, costs, and application process for the green card program.
What is the Diversity Visa Program?
The Diversity Immigrant Visa program, administered by the U.S. Department of State, aims to diversify the immigrant population in the United States. It grants over 50,000 visas annually to individuals.
The winners, chosen randomly by a computer, along with their immediate family members, receive green cards.
Applying for a Diversity Visa
Applying for the Diversity Visa involves filling out an online form during the designated entry period, typically from early October to early November each year.
Using a professional registration service can help ensure that your application is accurate, complete, and submitted on time.
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Diversity Visa Timeline
Winners are usually notified about seven months after entry submission. From selection to interview scheduling and visa receipt, the process can take up to 14 months. For instance, if you applied in the 2024 program (Oct-Nov 2024), and were selected, you would proceed with visa applications in the fiscal year 2025.
Diversity Visa Eligibility
Country of Birth: You must be from a country with low immigration rates to the U.S. Excluded countries typically include high-immigration nations like India, China, and Mexico.
Education or Work Experience: Applicants must have either a high school education or two years of work experience in a field requiring at least two years of training.
Free Eligibility Check
Check your eligibility to participate in the Green Card Program.
How to Enter the Green Card Program
The application is straightforward, requiring submission through the State Department’s website during the open registration period. Important points include accurately listing your country of birth and ensuring all family members are included in the application as required.
Selection and Notification
Selections are made randomly with a set number of visas allocated by global region. Check your application status using the Entrant Status Check link on the Diversity Visa webpage starting in early May following your application year.
Post-Selection Process
If selected, act quickly to ensure your visa is processed before the end of the fiscal year. Those outside the U.S. will proceed through consular processing, while those inside the U.S. will adjust status via USCIS.
Recommendation
A private company providing value-added paid services for registration to the United States Green Card program.
Over 570,000 families have trusted American GC to help them successfully file their green card applications.