The DV program, also known as the Green Card Lottery, is a U.S. immigrant visa program that offers permanent residency to individuals from countries with low levels of immigration to the U.S. The DV program continues to provide 55,000 visas annually, promoting diversity in U.S. immigration.
Eligibility is based on
- Country of birth Applicants must be from a qualifying country (not necessarily the country of citizenship).
- Education or experience At least a high school education or two years of qualifying work experience in the past five years.
The application is free and must be submitted online through the official U.S. Department of State website during the designated registration period, typically in October. Selection is random, but being selected does not guarantee a visa – applicants must still meet eligibility and security requirements.