Each year, the Diversity Lottery (DV) Program makes 55,000 immigrant visas available through a lottery to people who come from countries with low rates of immigration to the United States. Of such visas, 5,000 are allocated for use under NACARA beginning with DV '99. The State Department (DOS) holds the lottery every year, and randomly selects approximately 110,000 applicants from all qualified entries. The DOS selects the approximately 110,000 applications since many will not complete the visa process. However once 55,000 are issued or the fiscal year ends, the DV program is closed. If you receive a visa through the Diversity Visa Lottery Program you will be authorized to live and work permanently in the United States. You will also be allowed to bring your spouse and any unmarried children under the age of 21 to the United States.

Entering the Diversity Visa Lottery

Please see How Do I Participate in the Diversity Immigrant Visa Lottery Program? for more information on the program.

Please see Department of State Warning on Fraudulent/Impostor DV Lottery Websites.

Diversity Immigrant Visa Lottery 2007 has begun.

Diversity Immigrant Visa Lottery 2007 Guidelines Instructions, and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) (Department of State Website)

Federal Register Notice: Department of State, Bureau of Consular Affairs; Registration for the Diversity Immigrant Visa Program (DV-2007)

Diversity Lottery 2006 Results (Department of State Website)