The Immigration Act of 1990 established the Diversity Visa (DV) program, which makes up to 55,000 immigrant visas available through random selection. The program allows those from countries with low immigration rates to the United States; to enter for a chance to apply for a U.S. immigrant visa.

To apply for this visa, follow the steps on the Diversity Visa Program website.  Please also click on DV Instructions for specific and updated guidance.

Additional Notices to Applicant: 
All entries must be submitted electronically during the specified registration period in the DV Instructions. No late entries or paper entries are accepted. The law allows only one entry by or for each person during each registration period. The Department of State uses sophisticated technology to detect multiple entries. If you submit more than one entry you will be disqualified.

Those who receive a Diversity Visa interview must come prepared.  Individuals who miss or reschedule their visa application appointments, or who attend their appointment without all required documents, increase the risk that a visa may not be available or issued. Such actions also result in the use of an appointment that might have otherwise benefited a qualified selectee.

Beware of fraud and scams. Some websites and emails attempt to mislead customers, posing as providers of official U.S. government information. Read our Fraud Warning for more information.

Complete your own application. The online entry application is easy and free.

To get started with your DV application:

1. Submit an entry.  Eligible individuals may submit an entry at https://dvprogram.state.gov/ during the specified registration period in October/November of each year.
2. Check your DV application status.  In early May, entrants may check their DV application status and see if they were selected using the Entry Status Check at https://dvprogram.state.gov/ESC/. Entrants must have their confirmation number to access information through Entry Status Check. This is the ONLY website where Diversity Visa entrants are notified of their selection, provided instructions on how to proceed with their application, and notified of their immigrant visa interview appointment date and time. Please be aware, the U.S. Department of State is  unable to provide results to DV entrants or provide your confirmation number.