Common Errors to Avoid When Applying for the Diversity Immigrant Visa Program

The Diversity Immigrant Visa Program, commonly known as the green card lottery, allows people from countries with low immigration rates to live and work in the United States.

Every year, the U.S. Department of State conducts a random lottery to select 55,000 applicants who can apply for a Diversity Visa (DV). The selection is done using a computer-generated random lottery system, which ensures fairness for all participants.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the program, applicants must meet two key criteria: they must be citizens of eligible countries and have either a high school diploma or equivalent, or two years of work experience in a qualifying job.

While applying for the DV Program is an exciting chance to immigrate to the U.S., even minor mistakes in the application can create significant problems. By understanding common mistakes and how to avoid them, applicants can increase their chances of a successful entry into the green card lottery.

Seven Common Mistakes in the DV Application Process

Applications for the green card lottery are submitted electronically through the Electronic Diversity Visa (E-DV) website during the designated registration period. Although the DV instructions provide clear guidance, seven common mistakes, often referred to as the “deadly sins,” can lead to delays or rejection of applications.

Submitting Multiple Entries

Applicants are allowed only one entry per registration period. The Department of State uses advanced technology to detect multiple entries, which will lead to disqualification. It is important to review all information carefully before submission.

Missing the Deadline

Late or paper entries are not accepted. Applicants must submit their applications on the E-DV website before the specified deadline. For the 2026 DV Program, the registration period runs until November 5, 2024, at 12 p.m. Eastern Standard Time (EST).

Entering Inaccurate Personal Information

Names should be entered exactly as they appear on passports or identification documents. Avoid using nicknames or variations. Additionally, double-check the date of birth to ensure the correct day, month, and year are entered. Errors can lead to delays or rejection.

Omitting Family Members

All immediate family members must be included in the application, including spouses and unmarried children under 21. Failing to list eligible family members can result in their exclusion from the program.

Using Third-Party Websites for Help

Be wary of third-party sites offering assistance. These sites may charge unnecessary fees and provide incorrect information. It’s best to use the official Department of State website or trusted government portals. Applicants should complete the entry form themselves, and if they use an agent, they should be present during the process to ensure accurate answers are provided.

Leaving Fields Blank

To avoid disqualification, ensure that all required fields are filled out completely. Missing information can lead to rejection. Carefully review the form before submission.

Not Meeting Mandatory Requirements

Applicants must either have a high school diploma or equivalent, meaning they have completed a 12-year course of formal education, or have at least two years of work experience in a job that requires a minimum of two years of training or experience.

Exploring Other Immigration Options

Understanding these common mistakes can help applicants complete their Diversity Immigrant Visa applications correctly. This increases their chances of being selected in the lottery.

While the DV Program offers one path to a green card, there are other options available. For instance, the National Interest Waiver (NIW) allows for immigration without a job offer or labor certification. The NIW is an alternative to the traditional PERM process and is available to those whose work is considered to benefit the national interest of the United States.

Obtaining a green card typically involves submitting a petition, completing an application, attending a biometrics appointment, and undergoing interviews with immigration officials. Processing times can range from one to six years, depending on demand.

While BAL cannot improve an applicant’s luck in the Diversity Immigrant Visa Program, our legal experts are available to assist employers in finding the best immigration strategy.