Diversity Visa (the Green Card Lottery)

The Diversity Immigrant Visa Program (DV Program) makes up to 50,000 immigrant visas available annually, drawn from random selection among all entries to individuals who are from countries with low rates of immigration to the United States. The Diversity Visa Program is administered by the U.S. Department of State (DOS).

Most lottery winners reside outside the United States and immigrate through consular processing and issuance of an immigrant visa.

Diversity Visa Winners Legally Residing In the United States: Apply Through USCIS

There are, however, a small number of lottery winners each year who, at the time of “winning the lottery,” are residing in the United States in a nonimmigrant or other legal status. For these winners residing inside the United States, USCIS processes adjustment of status applications. The following information applies to winners legally residing in the United States only:

Eligibility Criteria

For an applicant to adjust status under the Diversity Visa Program, you must establish that you:

• Have been selected for a diversity visa by DOS’s lottery;
• Have an immigrant visa immediately available at the time of filing an adjustment application (Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status); and
• Are admissible to the United States.

FRAUD WARNING: Fraudsters may send you emails claiming you’ve won the Diversity Visa (Green Card) lottery. Never send money to anyone who sends you a letter or email claiming you have won – learn how to protect yourself from scams.

To learn more, visit the USCIS website.