What is the DV lottery

The Diversity Visa (DV) lottery, or Green Card lottery, is a US government program that grants up to 55,000 immigrant visas each year to people from countries with historically low immigration rates to the United States.

Administered by the US Department of State, the program aims to diversify the immigrant population through a randomized, merit-neutral selection process. Selected applicants, known as selectees, can apply for permanent residency (a Green Card).

Key details

• Official name: Diversity Immigrant Visa Program
• Administered by: US Department of State
• Visas available each year: 55,000
• Application fee: Free to enter (fees apply if selected)
• Official site: dvprogram.state.gov

The lottery typically opens in October and runs for about a month. Results are published the following May, and selectees must complete the immigrant visa process before the end of the program year.

Who’s eligible

Applicants must:

• Be born in an eligible country (eligibility changes every year)
• Have at least a high school education or two years of qualifying work experience

There’s no upper age limit, but most entrants are over 18 because of the education requirement.

Countries with high immigration numbers to the US—such as India, China, Mexico, Canada, and the UK—are generally ineligible.

If your country is ineligible, you may still qualify through your spouse’s or parents’ country of birth.

Find out if you are eligible for the Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery here.

How it works

1. Apply online through dvprogram.state.gov during the registration period.
2. Receive a confirmation number, which is required to check results.
3. Results are announced in May, and selectees can then apply for an immigrant visa.
4. Selection does not guarantee a visa — applicants must still meet all entry and eligibility requirements.

Each diversity visa is valid for around six months from issuance, after which recipients must enter the US to activate permanent residency.

Costs and chances of selection

• Entry: Free
• Visa application (if selected): Around $330 USD per applicant (plus medical and administrative costs)
• Selection rate: Less than 1% globally, as millions apply for roughly 55,000 spots each year

Why Deel Immigration can help

While Deel cannot submit DV lottery applications (entries must be made directly via the official US government website), Deel Immigration helps individuals and employers manage everything that comes before and after the lottery.

1. Eligibility and visa strategy

Deel’s immigration specialists assess whether a person meets DV lottery requirements and advise on alternative US visa routes when needed.

2. Transition and compliance

If an employee is selected, Deel assists with transitions from temporary visas (like H-1B or L-1) to permanent residency, helping maintain compliance and continuous work authorization.

See also: A Guide to US Permanent Residency with an Employment-based Green Card

3. End-to-end case management

Through Deel’s centralized immigration platform, HR teams can manage documents, deadlines, and case updates for employees across multiple countries — all in one place.

See also: Best Work Visa Services for Global Teams: What To Look For

4. Global mobility support

Deel supports cross-border workforce planning and compliance when employees relocate or adjust their status after winning the DV lottery.

See also: Employee Mobility Services: Easy Relocations for International Companies

Fast-track your US visa with Deel Immigration

Deel Immigration is transforming the immigration process. It offers candidates and employers a premier experience that blends cutting-edge technology with a human touch, ensuring a transparent and smooth immigration journey.

Deel’s user-friendly platform offers self-serve functionality, an application status timeline, real-time status updates, access to a dedicated case manager, and exclusive relocation services, keeping you well-informed and supported at every turn.

Connect with the Deel immigration team today to expedite your visa process for yourself or a team member.

Book a free consultation with an immigration expert today.