US Diversity Visa Lottery: Current Status and Application Procedures

The US Diversity Visa Lottery (also known as the DV lottery) remains a significant opportunity for individuals from qualifying countries to obtain US residency through an annual random draw. Although the program faces various challenges, including recent legal obstacles, it remains active. Below, we outline the current status of the DV-2020 lottery and the detailed procedures involved.

Current Status of the US Diversity Visa Lottery

The US Diversity Visa Lottery, also referred to as the DV lottery, is a critical pathway for individuals from nations with historically low rates of immigration to the United States. The program is designed to promote diversity and address the wage earner needs of US employers in specific occupations. The lottery operates under the provisions of the Lautenberg-Leahy Diversity Visa Program, which is a provision of the Immigration and Nationality Act. Until Congress passes changes to this legislation, the DV lottery will continue to operate in its current form.

The official website provides the most up-to-date information regarding the lottery. As of now, the DV-2020 lottery has not yet opened for applications. Typically, the entries open after the start of the fiscal year which commences on October 1, 2018. This means that hopeful applicants should monitor the official website for updates on the submission period.

It's crucial to note that the DV-2019 lottery has already closed to entry submissions. As such, if an individual has not yet submitted their application, it is too late to participate in this round. For those who missed the 2019 deadline, the only option is to wait for the next lottery cycle.

Procedures for Applying for the US Diversity Visa Lottery

The application process for the US Diversity Visa Lottery involves several key steps to ensure a successful submission. Here are the detailed procedures:

Eligibility Criteria

Before applying, applicants must meet the eligibility criteria as prescribed by the US government:

Resident of a qualifying country (a full list of countries can be found on the official website) At least 18 years of age Have a high school diploma or equivalent Have a minimum of two years of work experience in an occupation requiring at least two years of training or experience Preferably, be computer literate and able to complete the online application process

Online Application

Once eligible, applicants can begin the application process through the official DV-2020 lottery website.

Register for an Account: Create an account using the required personal information such as full name, date of birth, and country of birth. Complete the Online Questionnaire: Fill out the questionnaire, which includes information about your education, employment, and labor qualifications. Submit Required Documents: Upload necessary documents such as a valid passport, proof of educational qualifications, and evidence of work experience. Pay the Application Fee: A non-refundable fee must be paid to submit the application. The fee is typically around $150.

Random Drawing and Notification

After the application period closes, a random drawing is conducted by a computer to select winners. Winning applicants will receive a notification via a secure email. It's important to provide a valid email address during the application process.

Selected winners must then complete the battery of forms and pay an immigrant visa application fee before their eligibility can be further evaluated. The process can be time-consuming and requires meticulous attention to detail.

Pros and Cons of the US Diversity Visa Lottery

Like any lottery program, the DV lottery has its pros and cons:

Pros

Accessibility for residents of underrepresented countries Opportunity for legal residency without the need for sponsorship Generates diversity in the US population

Cons

High competition, with millions of entries each year Potential legal challenges and delays in the processing timeline Complex application process and the need for accurate documentation

Conclusion

The US Diversity Visa Lottery continues to be a vital pathway for individuals from specific countries to acquire US residency. Despite the challenges it faces, the lottery remains a beacon of hope for many. Prospective applicants must stay informed, follow the procedures meticulously, and be patient as the process can be complex and time-consuming.

For more detailed information on the US Diversity Visa Lottery and to stay updated on application procedures, visit the official website.

Keywords: US Diversity Visa Lottery, DV-2020, lottery application