Diversity Immigrant Visa (Green Card Lottery)
For nationals of countries with low rates of immigration to the US, selected by random lottery.
The Diversity Immigrant Visa (Green Card Lottery) is a US settlement & citizenship visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (Free to enter the lottery; ~US$330 DV fee plus US$235 USCIS immigrant fee if selected) and processing time (~Within the program year (must complete before visas run out)), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Diversity Immigrant Visa (Green Card Lottery) is for
For nationals of countries with low rates of immigration to the US, selected by random lottery.
Is itself a green card; leads to citizenship after 5 years as a permanent resident.
Diversity Immigrant Visa (Green Card Lottery) - eligibility criteria
- Be a native of an eligible (low-admission) country
- Have a high school education or qualifying work experience
- Submit a valid entry during the registration window
- Be randomly selected in the lottery
- Complete the visa process before the program year ends
Diversity Immigrant Visa (Green Card Lottery) cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Diversity Immigrant Visa (Green Card Lottery) (United States) is Free to enter the lottery; ~US$330 DV fee plus US$235 USCIS immigrant fee if selected, with an indicative processing time of ~Within the program year (must complete before visas run out). Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at U.S. Department of State (travel.state.gov).
| Type | Permanent residence |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Online entry; immigrant visa at a consulate or adjustment in the US |
| Length of stay | Permanent (green card) |
| Work rights | Full work authorization as a permanent resident |
| Study rights | Full study rights as a permanent resident |
| Government fee | Free to enter the lottery; ~US$330 DV fee plus US$235 USCIS immigrant fee if selected |
| Processing time | ~Within the program year (must complete before visas run out) |
| Route to PR | Is itself a green card; leads to citizenship after 5 years as a permanent resident. |
Pathway & next steps
Is itself a green card; leads to citizenship after 5 years as a permanent resident.
Many applicants also compare Green Card · Adjustment of Status (Green Card in the US), EB-3 · EB-3 Skilled Worker Green Card. Run a free VisaChief check to see which US route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Diversity Immigrant Visa (Green Card Lottery) pitfalls we fix
Diversity Immigrant Visa (Green Card Lottery) - frequently asked questions
How much does the Diversity Immigrant Visa (Green Card Lottery) cost?
The Diversity Immigrant Visa (Green Card Lottery) government fee is Free to enter the lottery; ~US$330 DV fee plus US$235 USCIS immigrant fee if selected. Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at U.S. Department of State (travel.state.gov) before applying.
How long does the Diversity Immigrant Visa (Green Card Lottery) take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~Within the program year (must complete before visas run out). Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Diversity Immigrant Visa (Green Card Lottery) lead to permanent residence?
Is itself a green card; leads to citizenship after 5 years as a permanent resident.
Can I work on the Diversity Immigrant Visa (Green Card Lottery)?
Work rights: Full work authorization as a permanent resident.
Who can apply for the Diversity Immigrant Visa (Green Card Lottery)?
For nationals of countries with low rates of immigration to the US, selected by random lottery.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official United States government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- U.S. Department of State (travel.state.gov) - official United States immigration authority