Diversity Immigrant Visa Program (DV Lottery)

The Immigration and Nationality Act established the Diversity Immigrant Visa Program or DV visa lottery system in 1990, which makes available up to 55,000 diversity visas each year. The Department of State oversees the DV Lottery program. It is designed to offer opportunities for lawful immigration from countries that have low rates of immigration to the United States.

The program does not require U.S. family or employer sponsorship. However, it is based upon a random selection of a very limited number of applications. Applicants can access DV visa lottery information at https://dvlottery.state.gov/ while the program continues in effect.