How Kenyans Can Apply for the Green Card Lottery

 The Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery, also called the Green Card Lottery, gives Kenyans a chance to legally migrate to the United States as permanent residents. Every year, thousands of Kenyans apply, but many lose their chance due to simple errors. This guide explains how Kenyans can apply correctly, avoid mistakes, and make the most of their opportunity.

---

Step-by-Step Guide for Kenyans Applying for the Green Card Lottery

1. Check Your Eligibility

   • Kenya is an eligible country for the DV-2026 Lottery (applications in 2025).

   • You must have at least a KCSE certificate (high school education equivalent) or two years of qualifying work experience in the past five years.

2. Prepare Your Passport and Photo

   • You need a valid international passport at the time of application.

   • Take a passport-style photo that meets U.S. standards: white background, no glasses, no shadows, and taken within the last six months.

3. Apply on the Official Website

   • Go to dvprogram.state.gov when applications open (usually October).

   • Fill in your details carefully: name as in passport, date of birth, marital status, and include all children under 21.

4. Submit and Save Your Confirmation Number

   • Once you submit, you’ll receive a confirmation number.

   • Write it down or save a screenshot — it is the only way to check if you win.

---

Top Mistakes Kenyan Applicants Make

1. Using Cybercafé Operators Carelessly

   • Many Kenyans apply through cybercafés, but attendants sometimes recycle photos or give the same email for multiple clients, causing disqualification.

   • Tip: Be present during the application, provide your own email, and keep your confirmation number.

2. Wrong Passport-Size Photo

   • Old photos, edited photos, or photos with colored backgrounds are rejected. Always use a recent, plain-white-background photo.

3. Forgetting to List Children

   • Failing to include all biological, adopted, or stepchildren under 21 leads to automatic disqualification.

4. Multiple Entries

   • Some applicants submit more than once, hoping to increase their chances. The system automatically disqualifies duplicate entries.

---

Using Cybercafés Safely in Kenya

Many Kenyans do not have internet access at home and rely on cybercafés to apply. Here is how to stay safe:

• Bring your own passport photo in digital format that meets requirements instead of relying on café cameras.

• Use your personal email address and create a new password you can remember. Never share it with attendants.

• Stay present during the entire application process — do not leave your details with the operator.

• Save your confirmation number by emailing it to yourself or writing it down in multiple safe places.

---

When and How to Check Results

• Results are usually released in May of the following year after applications close.

• Use your confirmation number on the official site dvprogram.state.gov to check.

• The U.S. Embassy in Nairobi does not release results or send winner emails — only the website is official.

---

Final Thoughts for Kenyan Applicants

Kenyans have consistently been among the highest number of winners in the DV Lottery because of the country’s eligibility and high participation. To improve your chances:

• Apply early

• Use accurate details

• Submit correct photos

• Keep your confirmation number safe

With careful preparation and awareness of common mistakes, Kenyan applicants can avoid disqualification and successfully compete for one of the limited Green Cards available.