The Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery program continues—at least for one more year. The DV-2016 application period began on Wednesday, October 1, 2014, at noon and will end at noon on November 3, 2014. From year-to-year, there is always speculation as to whether the DV Lottery will continue. So, if you're eligible and are inclined to give your luck a try, there's no time like the present.
Congress created the DV Lottery program to provide an extra opportunity for those from countries with low rates of immigration to the US to seek U.S. permanent residence. For DV-2016, 50,000 visas will again be available. Applicants from no single country may in total receive more than 7% (i.e., no more than 3,500 per country for DV-2016) of the visas in any fiscal year.
Are you eligible to apply? The first thing to check is whether you are from a country whose natives are permitted to participate this year (or if you have a qualifying relationship with someone from a country such that you can apply). The list of ineligible countries is shorter and includes (...excludes from the program): Bangladesh, Brazil, Canada, China (mainland-born), Colombia, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Haiti, India, Jamaica, Mexico, Nigeria, Pakistan, Peru, Philippines, South Korea, United Kingdom (except Northern Ireland) and its dependent territories, and Vietnam. For clarification, those born in Hong Kong SAR, Macau SAR, and Taiwan may apply.
There are of course additional eligibility criteria, rules and FAQs regarding the application process which should be reviewed before applying. The Department of State succinctly describes the eligibility requirements as "simple, but strict". If you're not sure, you should perhaps consult with an attorney rather than letting the opportunity pass by.
To apply, your application must be submitted electronically using the official electronic DV entry form (E-DV). No paper entries will be accepted. Because the application must be made electronically, the State Department is strongly encouraging early applications to allow time for website delays in case of heavy demand, perhaps especially toward the end of the application period. Be sure to print and keep your online confirmation page after completing the DV entry process. This should enable you to check the status of your application beginning on May 5, 2015 through Entry Status Check.
Are you guaranteed a greencard through this process? No, not even if you win the lottery. This is because even if you win, your case must be processed through to conclusion by a specific date within the total visa number allotment. So, even if you enter the DV Lottery, you should seek legal counsel as to whether to continue other greencard processes until permanent residence is granted through your DV lottery win, just in case it isn't. As for your DV-2016 Lottery entry, note that neither an attorney nor an agent is in a position to increase the chances of being selected after a properly prepared application is submitted.
The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.
