US announces 2017 Green Card Lottery

The US Embassy Colombo is pleased to announce the start of the 2017 Diversity Immigrant Visa Lottery Program. Also known as the “Green Card” Lottery, the program will be open for online registration from 1 October 2015 to 3 November 2015.  

The Diversity Immigrant Visa Lottery allows randomly selected applicants the opportunity to interview for an immigrant visa, and if qualified, become legal permanent residents of the United States.    

A few suggestions to keep in mind:

n The lottery application period is open from 1 October 2015 to 3 November 2015;

nThe lottery is open to citizens from qualifying countries – both Sri Lanka and Maldives qualify;

nApplicants may only apply once; multiple entries will result in disqualification;

nApplicants must meet the qualifications for the Diversity Immigrant Visa program, so please make sure you qualify before applying; 

nApplicants should keep the application’s confirmation number – you will need it to check if you have been selected;

nThe online application is completely free – there are no hidden costs.  Beware of scams, of persons or companies making claims of affiliation with the US Government, and of those who promise improved odds of selection.  You do not need third party assistance to complete and submit an application. 

Please go to the US Embassy Colombo’s website at http://srilanka.usembassy.gov/visas/diversity-visa-lottery-program.html to find out more about the program, including qualification requirements and detailed instructions in Sinhala, Tamil and English. To apply for the lottery, please go to www.dvlottery.state.gov. 

Beginning in early May 2016, applicants may go online to Entrant Status Check page on www.dvlottery.state.gov to see if they have been selected for the Diversity Visa lottery. 

Those selected will be asked to submit more information and will be notified if they are selected for an interview when they periodically go to Entrant Status Check.

If selected, the in-person interview will be with a US Consular Officer, who will decide if you are eligible to receive a visa – documents required will include medical and police clearance and payment of visa fees at the Embassy.