Diversity Visa (DV, "green card lottery"): checklist

When the DV period opens, check your eligibility, complete the application, and follow the visa steps if selected.

YOUR NEXT STEP

1. Check the eligible-country and education requirements

Check whether your country of birth is eligible and whether you meet the high school graduation or qualifying work-experience requirement.

1. Check the eligible-country and education requirementsCheck whether your country of birth is eligible and whether you meet the high school graduation or qualifying work-experience requirement.
2. Prepare your passport and photographsPrepare your valid passport information, a scan of the identity and signature page, and appropriate photographs of your family members.

3. Submit one applicationWhen the registration period opens, complete Form DS-5501 online only at dvprogram.state.gov and pay the $1 registration fee.dvprogram.state.gov(Official site)
4. List all family members completelyList your spouse and all unmarried children under 21 in the application, even if they do not live with you or will not immigrate with you.
5. Keep the confirmation numberPrint the confirmation page that appears at the end of the application and keep the confirmation number yourself.dvprogram.state.gov(Official site)

6. Check the result yourselfLearn the result only through Entrant Status Check using your confirmation number; do not wait for an email or letter.dvprogram.state.gov(Official site)
7. Complete the DS-260 formIf selected, complete the immigrant visa application form DS-260 online.
8. Complete the documents and medical examinationPrepare the required documents and undergo the medical examination with an authorized physician in Ankara at least 15 days before the interview.
9. Attend the Ankara interviewAttend the appointment announced by the Kentucky Consular Center at the U.S. Embassy in Ankara.
10. Obtain the visa by the deadlineYou and your family must obtain the visa by the end of the program year, that is, by September 30.