Diversity Visa Applications

Each year, 50,000 immigrant visas are made available through the Diversity Visa Lottery Program (Green Card Lottery). Conducted each year by the Department of State, an entrant who is selected under this program will be given the opportunity to apply for permanent residence. If permanent residence is granted, the applicant will be authorized to live and work permanently in the United States. Permanent resident status is also accorded to the spouse and minor children of the applicant.

Many unscrupulous companies have sprouted up which prey on persons who are hoping to win the lottery. Individuals should be very careful before paying money to a company that promises to help win the lottery. The entry procedures are very simple and the process of selection is highly random; there is no reason to pay hundreds of dollars to have someone prepare an application that consists of only one sheet of paper. An individual may prepare and file this him or herself for the cost of a piece of paper, an envelope, and postage. For more information, visit the State Department's Visa Lottery website