After Winning the Green Card Lottery

 

Being selected in the Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery is an exciting opportunity, but it is only the beginning of the process. Selection does not guarantee a Green Card. Winners must complete several steps, including preparing documents, attending interviews, and paying fees before receiving permanent resident status. Below is a complete breakdown of what happens after winning.

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What Happens If You Win the Green Card Lottery?

1. Selection Notification

   • Winners are notified only through the official Entrant Status Check (ESC) at dvprogram.state.gov, using their confirmation number.

   • Selection means you are eligible to apply for one of the limited visas available, but you must act quickly.

2. Filing the DS-260 Form

   • The first step is to complete the DS-260 Immigrant Visa and Alien Registration Application online.

   • This form collects details about your background, travel history, family, and security information.

3. National Visa Center (NVC) Processing

   • Once submitted, your form is processed by the Kentucky Consular Center (KCC), which manages DV Lottery cases.

   • You will be scheduled for a consular interview in your country of residence or allowed to adjust status if you are already in the U.S. legally.

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How to Prepare Documents for the DV Interview

Winners must bring original and official documents to their visa interview. These generally include:

• Passport (valid for international travel)

• Birth certificate (original and official translation if not in English)

• Marriage certificate (if applicable)

• Divorce or death certificates (for previous spouses, if applicable)

• Police certificates from every country you have lived in for more than six months since age 16

• Educational certificates or work experience proof (to demonstrate eligibility)

• Military records (if applicable)

• Two recent passport-sized photos that meet official requirements

• DV Lottery selection notification (confirmation page)

• Completed DS-260 confirmation page

All documents not in English must be accompanied by certified translations. Missing or incorrect documents can lead to delays or even denial.

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Medical Examination Process for Winners

• Before your interview, you must undergo a medical examination by an embassy-approved physician.

• The exam includes:

  • General physical examination

  • Vaccination check (you may be required to update certain vaccines)

  • Screening for communicable diseases (such as tuberculosis)

• The results are sealed and sent directly to the U.S. Embassy or given to you in a sealed envelope to bring to your interview.

You cannot use your personal doctor; the physician must be on the official embassy-approved panel list.

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What Fees to Expect After Selection

While the lottery application is free, several costs arise after selection:

1. Visa Application Fee

   • Approximately $330 per person, payable at the U.S. embassy or consulate before the interview.

2. Medical Examination Fee

   • Costs vary by country, but typically range from $200 to $500 per applicant, depending on required vaccinations.

3. Document Preparation Costs

   • Fees for obtaining police certificates, translations, and notarizations may apply.

4. Travel Costs

   • You must cover your own airfare and relocation expenses to the United States.

5. USCIS Immigrant Fee

   • After visa approval and before traveling to the U.S., winners must pay a $220 USCIS immigrant fee online. This covers the production of the physical Green Card.

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How Long Does It Take to Get the Green Card After Winning?

• Visa Issuance: If approved at the interview, you receive an immigrant visa stamped in your passport, usually valid for six months. You must enter the U.S. before it expires.

• Entry into the U.S.: Upon entry, you are admitted as a lawful permanent resident (LPR).

• Green Card Delivery: The physical Green Card is mailed to your U.S. address within 3–6 months after arrival.

Until the card arrives, the immigrant visa in your passport serves as temporary proof of permanent residence.

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Final Thoughts

Winning the DV Lottery is only the first step. To secure your Green Card, you must carefully complete forms, gather documents, undergo medical checks, attend the interview, and pay required fees. Timely preparation and strict compliance with official requirements are critical for success.