Completing the DS260 for DV lottery entrants
Completing the DS260 for DV lottery entrants
*** Note***
Upon submission, some people are getting an error message that the confirmation number doesn’t match. In that case – the solution is here:
https://britsimonsays.com/faq/ds260-case-number-doesnt-match-case-number/
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OK – so the main task to process your DV lottery win is to complete a form online that is your “application” for immigration benefit. That form is the DS260.
The form itself might seem daunting, and it may take about 2 hours to complete. It is important that you prepare your information, and enter the details as accurately as possible. You will be able to make changes later on, but it makes sense to spend a few extra minutes early on to get this right.
You will some documents to complete the process and mostly you will need those now so gather them now and create a special file to start creating your DV lottery paperwork:-
- Passport information for you and your family members.
- Birth certificates for you and your family members.
- Your education history
- Your work history
- Your address history
- An address in the USA of a friend or family member. This is where your Green Card will be sent.
Ready? OK now let me guide you through completing the form:-
Enter the form for the first time.
You need your case number which will be in the format of YEAR-REGION-CASENUMBER. For example 2016AS00001234. This is the FULL case number including the “leading zeroes” in this case before the 1234. (In online forums we suggest hiding the last 2 or 3 digigits and dropping the leading zeroes – so when quoting your case on a forum you would state this number as 2016AS1XXX or 2016AS12XX. This protects your identity.)
The form will expect your date of birth in day/month/year order. This is odd because Americans write date in month/day/year order.
Once in the form you will go through a number of sections where you will enter your details. Most of the information is self explanatory – but here are screenshots for each section of how the forms will look for a simple case – and some comments about some of the questions. Please remember it is important to make sure your answers are YOUR answers. Don’t just copy what I am suggesting if the answer does not agree with your circumstances.
1. Summary.
Here you will see a list of applicants attached to the case (based on the eDV entry). Click the link under “IV application” to complete the details for each applicant.
You can also add applicants from this page (if you have married since the original entry or had a child). Once you have added an applicant you cannot remove that applicant or change their name. So – please be careful about name spelling etc. It is also important to note that if you are adding a spouse or child that you already had prior to the original eDV entry but failed to mention in the original entry you will most probably be disqualified, as that is a critical error.
If you do have to add a child or spouse because of a birth or marriage while you are waiting to be interviewed, remember you will need to add an applicant AND in addition your own form will need to be unlocked so that you can add the new family relationship to your form.
2. Personal Information 1.
This is where you will enter your name information. It is a useful page to capture your name in English, but also in Native alphabet.
The names entered on this page should be as listed on your passport – but also use the “other names used” section to make sure you have covered combinations that appear in your documents. For example, if you have an education certificate that includes an additional family name, use the alias section to include that name. Also, use the alias section if you entered your name differently on the eDV entry. Entering your other names used here means USCIS have early notice to perform name checks on your various names used and therefore you can make sure your background check is comprehensive – which is exactly what you want to reduce the chances of being placed on AP or even refused for incomplete name information.
Complete the other details such as date of birth. If you somehow made a mistake on the eDV about your date of birth (for example during conversion from a different calendar) THIS is your opportunity to correct that mistake – please pay attention to that. This would normally agree with the date of birth on your birth certificate, but if that is not known, then use the date shown on your passport.
About city/state/country of birth. ON the eDV entry (where you entered the lottery) you will have entered something for your city of birth. The three levels are related to each other – so a CITY is sometimes denoted as being in a STATE (or province) and that STATE is within a COUNTRY. People sometimes are not sure what to enter so let me gives some examples.
You could have been born in Richmond which is a city/town in London, United Kingdom. So an acceptable answer (which should agree with the information on your birth certificate) would be:
CITY: Richmond
State/Province: London
Country: United Kingdom
Your passport should be valid for 6 months beyond the point of entry, but if your passport will expire during the DV process, you might be better submitting now with the current passport and updating later once you have the replacement passport. This is especially true if you have a low case number, and are therefore expecting an early interview. If you do need to renew your passport during the DV process, in many cases people have taken old and new passports to the interview without unlocking the form, but the preference would be to add the new passport details if time allows.
OK – hope that makes sense. Check what it says on your birth certificate. It is important that this information agrees to the birth certificate and the passport. By the way – your country of birth may not be the same as your nationality (which is on the next page). But your country of birth is what should have driven your entry into the lottery (eligibility is based on your country of birth, NOT your nationality).
The finished result should look something like this:-
3. Personal information 2
This page is about your travel documents (passport). Make sure you have the passport in front of you when you complete this page – accuracy is important as this will enable background checks.
Note, if you do not have a passport at this time you can complete the entry using another state issued ID, and then later unlock your forms to add the passport details. You WILL need a passport prior to interview as will any derivative (family member) of yours.
4. Present and previous address information
Try and complete this as accurately as possible. Provide all the address that you have LIVED at since the age of 16. If you stayed at a holiday home for a month or two, that does not need to be entered, but if you LIVED at an address for a few months then you should enter that address. You enter past address in reverse date order – meaning going backwards in time, one address at a time. Be as accurate as possible with the date you started living at each address (you can guess the dates within a month or two).
5. Mailing and Permanent Address Information
This is information about where you expect to stay in the USA OR the address of someone you can trust to receive your Green Card on your behalf. Most people can think of someone within their family or friends that could receive the GC for them. You should also know that you can change this address during the process – right up to the day your arrive in the USA for the first time.
6. Family information: Parents
OK – self explanatory information. I only show the top of the page in the screenshot below but you add your parents details and their addresses. THe data here should be accurate, but if you don’t know their birthdates etc. it is not a huge problem. Do the best you can.
7. Family information: Spouse and Previous Spouse
Enter the details as appropriate to your case. Remember, the information should be correct on the day you enter it. So, if you plan to marry in a month but want to submit your form today then you are SINGLE today. YOu can either delay submission of your form until you are married, or submit now as single and unlock your form later after the marriage. There is some information about marriage during the DV process here.
A previous spouse is entered when you divorced of a spouse passed away. You will be required to produce a divorce certificate or death certificate during the interview to tally with what you enter here.
8. Family information: Children
Fairly obviously you will need to enter information about each child you have, making sure their information ties with birth certificates and passports.
If your child is nearly 21 there may be special considerations for you. Please read this article on children aging out and their status under the CSPA.
If you are expecting a child to be born during the DV lottery processing period there are also procedures in place to obtain a Green Card for that child. I will address that with a new article.
One thing I would say, it is ESSENTIAL that you listed all your children in the eDV according to the instructions. If you made a mistake about that you may have caused yourself a problem. If you have a concern, contact me and explain your situation.
In the case shown in the screenshot below the applicant did not have any children.
9. Present work/education/training information
OK so this is important as education OR work experience are requirements of the DV lottery. Please read this article for more information about meeting the requirement. I cannot stress enough. You are only required to meet the education OR work experience – you do not have to prove BOTH. Of the two routes, education is the simplest and most reliable method, but some people cannot meet the education requirement – and although this may surprise you that includes me. I have had a very successful career in the IT field and have demonstrated my skills to earn a H1 visa (which is category of visa for highly educated or highly skilled workers), BUT I could not have met the DV lottery requirement on education! So – think carefully whether you do or not – and act accordingly.
Enter the information about work and education based on what you are doing at present. If you are entering work experience and hope to qualify through work experience you should consider carefully the question about “does this job require 2 years of training or experience”. Again, read the article above to understand that better.
10. Previous work/education/training information
OK – so this will vary depending on what you did before your present occupation. Maybe you had a different job, maybe you studied. Whichever is true you must enter that information here and create a complete history of your work, education and training. Try and get the dates to be accurate and make sure that those dates make sense with the address information you gave previously.
This page can end up being quite long and for the screenshots I have had to break it into two pieces. Just take your time and make it make sense. You can add another occupation (work or edication). Again, you enter going “backwards” in time.
11. Additional work/education/training information.
Answer the questions truthfully on this page. If you answer Yes and a box opens for further details there will be instructions of what further detail they want.
12. Security and Background: Medical and Health information
Answer these questions carefully and truthfully.
The second question (about vaccinations) causes some debate. Truthfully it WILL NOT MATTER whether you choose Yes or NO for that particular question. The right answer for 99% of people is NO, because you do not have “documentation to establish…”, even if you do have records of vaccinations. So, it is a subtle point but whether you answer yes or no it will not matter. The vaccinations you actually need will be decided by the panel physician at the time of your medical. So by all means gather whatever vaccination documentation you have.
13. Security and Background: Criminal
Answer these questions truthfully. Most criminal convictions will not cause disqualification, and you will have a chance to explain at the interview. The crimes that can cause disqualification are called “crimes of moral turpitude”. It is a vague term and perhaps one that I will write about to clarify but most people by far will not have a problem even if they have a criminal conviction. Previous immigration fraud is not surprisingly one of the crimes that can cause an issue which is why it is essential you always tell the truth on these applications.
14. Security and Background: Security 1
Again – answer these truthfully.
15. Security and Background: Security 2
Again – answer the questions truthfully.
16. Security and Background: Immigration law violations
As I mentioned earlier – they take immigration law violations seriously!
17. Security and Background: Miscellaneous 1
Again answer truthfully.
The skilled or unskilled labor question has sparked some debate. In reality if you intend to work in the USA then the answer to this is Yes – but this is another question that will not cause a problem no matter which response your choose.
18. Security and Background: Miscellaneous 2
Again these just need truthful answers.
The healthcare professional one is another question that really doesn’t matter how you answer it. If you are a healthcare worker don’t be afraid to admit that.
The public charge question should be answered NO. Public charge means financial assistance from the government. You must realize that the Green Card lottery winners should not be claiming “public assistance”. There are some exceptions to that statement, but in general you are expected to support yourself. The USA is a land of opportunity, not free gifts.
19. Social security number
Answer these three questions as shown below unless you already have a SSN from a previous period in the USA. USCIS will (in theory) forward your details to the social security administration (SSA) to apply for your SSN. In practice many people find this does not happen correctly and delays are caused in getting the SSN after you enter the USA. Since the SSN is so important for many purposes here in the USA that is a nuisance, so I always suggest people visit the SSA office after a couple of weeks to make sure your SSN is “in the system”. You should receive the SSN card itself about 2 to 3 weeks after entering the USA.
Submitting the form.
OK so you have completed your form. You do the same for each derivative (family member). Check all the forms carefully, take screenshots if you like and when you are ready, submit the form. You should then print the confirmation page. You will be able to review the form later in review mode and can also take screenshots at that point.
You may also be prompted to fill out a form for “selected service”. Any us resident male under 26 years old is required to register for selective service. This does not not mean you will need to serve in the military, but if there was some crisis that required additional military men under 26 years old will be picked by a lottery to be inducted into the military.
The form will become “locked” so that you will not be able to edit it although you will be able to review the information after you submitted it. If you need at any time prior to your interview to unlock the form you can do so by emailing KCC who generally respond within a few days. Once unlocked you can make changes.
Once KCC have your form they will “process” it. They conduct background checks based on the information you have told them and access to official records. The processing period in DV2015 took around 4 to 5 months because of the volume of forms submitted around the same time. So, if you have a very low case number and you delay the submission of your DS260 there is a chance you could delay the interview date – BUT don’t worry, you will simply be interviewed later. Interviews are conducted based on case number order but only from a pool of cases that have completed their DS260 processing.
March 18, 2018 at 14:48
Please I and my wife submitted the DS 260 forms without adding our marriage certificate but our appointment letter has come, so what should we do?
March 18, 2018 at 15:47
Take the marriage cert to the interview.
March 19, 2018 at 16:32
Hello Brit,
I did not receive any email from KCC but 2days ago I just enter my confirmation number again (ESC) and got a letter that schedule the family for interview in 2 weeks time.
Please as a family, do we have to get our I-134 filled by our host in USA ( I am in Ghana)
from my inquiry medical exams takes 2 weeks to get results….if the results are not ready can we still go for the interview??
Thanks and hope to hear from you sir.
March 19, 2018 at 17:51
Ghana embassy usually asks about a host instead of the I-134.
You can still attend the interview while waiting for the medical.
March 20, 2018 at 06:13
dear Brit,
My green-card interview is in May. I got my police report last January 2018, from local police station. will I need to get a newer one or is it okay? do I need to first receive the 2nl and then get a new police report or it is not necessary?
thank you.
March 20, 2018 at 14:19
Personally, I would get a new one.
March 21, 2018 at 10:55
Please Sir,can I get your email and message you privately??? Please
March 22, 2018 at 07:00
Mr Brit, I am having gc-interview at end of March. I have the following questions, please:
1) at interview, do I need to show any bank certificate that I have funds in my bank account or it is not required? I am from a European Union country. I think in Africa, US embassies need this certificate, but do they also need in EU?
2) I will be claiming gc eligibility based on my education. do I also need to show my cv/resume with my current and previous jobs and their job responsibilities?
thank you, Alex Soares
March 22, 2018 at 15:46
1. It would have helped if you had said where you were interviewing. Some EU embassies will ask for an I-134. britsimonsays.com/all-about-public-charge-affidavit-of-support-i-134/
2. Overprepare.
March 23, 2018 at 05:52
Mr Brit thank you,
1) Im from Cyprus – European Union part. Will they require I-134? and if they will require I-134, can I show bank certificate that I have funds in my bank account (over $10.000), instead of I-134?
2) overprepare, you mean I also show resume with past jobs and their responsibilities?
thank you, A.S.
March 23, 2018 at 17:45
1. I don’t know what they will want for sure. It varies case to case.
2. If unsure of whether to take some document – take it.
March 28, 2018 at 10:05
Thank you Mr. Brit,
please if one has done customary marriage many years ago and has 2kids and there is no marriage cert. will that affect your chances??
Please what do you advice??
God bless you
March 28, 2018 at 15:49
I advise a legal marriage process prior to the interview.
April 2, 2018 at 20:02
Hi BritSimon,
my interview will be in the middle of April and I was jdouble checking my DS-260 and I am not sure if I filled my education field correctly.
I have attended University, but did not finished and had one year left. I went to the states 2 times with J1 visas – this is the reason why I thought I have to fill the university as well.
Not sure about this question and my answer: Highest Level of Education Completed – University, No Degree
– however I never completed it and I am not sure did I had to choose High School Dimploma or University, No Degree is correct.
– if this is wrong – do I have to fix it or leave it and explain if asked?
I will be greatfull if you share your thoughts
Thanks
April 2, 2018 at 20:56
No need to overthink this. You are scheduled – all this can be discussed at the interview – but as long as you meet the requirements, they probably won’t ask anything more about education.
April 3, 2018 at 03:08
hello, I was selected dv2018 and I filled the ds 260 for my family and after I had a baby, they opened the ds 260 and I added my son, but when I just looking and i make his birth certificat , yesterday the ds 260 it is unlocked and it is written completed for all of us, but when I slide the mouse on completed, it appears that (the IV application has been submitted for this application.it will be reviewed once your civil document has been submitted), just tell me if i must call them or it is ok.
thnaks
April 3, 2018 at 03:24
It’s ok
April 3, 2018 at 10:33
thank you for help ,just i make mistake in my previously massage my ds260 is locked and when I slide the mouse on completed, it appears that (the IV application has been submitted for this application.it will be reviewed once your civil document has been submitted), just tell me if i must call them or it is ok.
thanks you
April 3, 2018 at 14:06
I already answered exactly as you asked.
April 3, 2018 at 10:39
just another question , my case number 244xx ,and in visa bulletin we are for may but i do not have recieve my 2nd letter ,is it normal
tanks you
April 3, 2018 at 14:05
That has happened to a number of cases. Check CEAC status. In transit or Ready means a May interview.
April 3, 2018 at 21:47
thank you so much for your help
April 7, 2018 at 14:00
Hi, till when do I have time to fill the ds260 and when will I get the interview if I fill it in before mid april? I know it is really late, but i recently changed my mind.
Best regards
April 7, 2018 at 16:16
You have time. Mid April will be fine.
April 13, 2018 at 14:02
I have completed DS 260 very early after I knew that I was selected (my wife is a selctee). During 10 months, I travel a lot, now my passport is finished the page. I have made new passport. Should I log in to update my passport number? Should I inform KCC before update it?
April 13, 2018 at 16:20
If not already scheduled – yes unlock and change the passport. Otherwise you take old and new passports to the interview.
April 13, 2018 at 16:34
Thank you very much.
April 21, 2018 at 05:55
Thank you very much. That is a great help.
Best regards,
Seng
April 13, 2018 at 17:36
hi BRIT ! i am worried right now i filled the DS 260 form completely ……..but the email entered is blocked and i can now longer access it i haven´t got my interview date scheduled till now i don´t know if it´s due to that problem or what!!!! my question is can i change my email address??? or any other suggestion from you SIR….by the way im a 2018 dvlottery winner thanks for your time and have a nice day !
April 13, 2018 at 17:58
You don’t need access to your email to check your DS260 or the ESC page where the interview schedule is displayed.
April 18, 2018 at 23:42
my case no eu29XXX. i have completed ds260 on 01.01.2018. is it to late? have i a chance?
April 19, 2018 at 00:08
The form submission is not too late – BUT your number has some risk for not getting an interview. All you can do is wait and see.
April 19, 2018 at 00:15
thanks very much. if interview cut off status is current, how is interview dates put in order? is it based on the date of completetion of ds260?
April 19, 2018 at 01:07
That is not known.
April 19, 2018 at 08:37
Hi Brit,
My wife has only first name and not in last name.
in spouse page, what should i fill in “Given Names”? Coz i can’t leave it blank.
Thanks
April 19, 2018 at 09:33
i mean she has no surname / lastname.
In her passport, there’s only firstname, e.g: JOLIE
April 19, 2018 at 14:11
Are you married to Madonna?
Whatever matches her passport.
April 19, 2018 at 15:10
no, but she has only first name and her passport also one name.
what should i input in the surname? NLN?
April 19, 2018 at 16:19
Don’t enter that text – that will become her name. If there is a checkbox – then select that.
April 19, 2018 at 16:41
there’s no checkbox.
see: https://imgur.com/a/wiGAzWo
I’m stuck.
April 19, 2018 at 17:20
I assume you are Indonesian. I have come across this before, and don’t have a great answer. You are going to have to make a decision on how to treat the name. Remember, in America (and the majority of countries around the world). It is normal to have at least two names, a family name (referred to as surname or lastname in the USA), and a given name (referred to as firstname or Christian name). In an American family the “norm” is that everyone in the family has the same family name – and each person has a given first name. Having two names creates some differentiation which makes life easier in terms of being identified.
There is a Wikipedia page that has the following suggestions for adapting the Indonesian single name for the USA.
1. Use the current name as the lastname, and end up with a first name of FNU or NFN.
2. Use the current name as the firstname, and end up with a first name of LNU or NLN.
3. Repeating the current name for first and lastnames.
None are ideal – Personally I would go with option 3 – but it is your choice. This is something you will have to decide and use in the future. I guess you could also adopt a second name prior to interview – going through a legal name change process.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indonesian_names
April 20, 2018 at 00:10
yes i’m Indonesian.
So i should choose between 1-4 options. Will it help if I call the embassy and ask them?
Then for full name in native alphabet (still same screenshot), should I use JOLIE or JOLIE NLN?
April 20, 2018 at 02:57
I answered in detail as much as I can.
April 20, 2018 at 15:04
Hi Brit, May I have another question. We are now schedule for interview in the coming month. Since we are 4 person (myself, my wife and 2 kids), do we need a confirmation of sponsorship from someone in US?
April 20, 2018 at 15:44
https://britsimonsays.com/all-about-public-charge-affidavit-of-support-i-134/
April 21, 2018 at 05:56
Thank you very much. That is a great help.
Best regards,
Seng
April 30, 2018 at 05:43
Hi there,
I won the lottery and my interview date has been set. However, since my application last year, I now have a criminal record (driving charge). Do I need to disclose this before my interview, or make it known at my interview?
Thanks
April 30, 2018 at 13:53
Driving charges are NOT normally criminal charges. However, your police cert will reveal your actual criminal record. So you don’t need to discuss the new incident UNLESS asked.
May 2, 2018 at 06:19
Thanks so much, I do have a criminal record. It was a DUI. So I should just wait for interview and if they ask then reveal it?
May 2, 2018 at 13:36
Yes.
May 1, 2018 at 06:33
hi britsimon,
I just got my new passport yesterday, I’m done filling out all the details that they need and when I click sign and submit it shows a red flag on my passport number even if I entered the correct one. I don’t know what to do anymore. A little help please..got stuck with my passport number..i’m from the Philippines. T-T
best,
sasha
May 1, 2018 at 13:25
I have no idea about what you are doing or asking.
May 2, 2018 at 07:54
Hi BritSimon,
Thank you for answering. Problem solved already! I just found out why I had an error with my passport number on the sign & submit part before the confirmation (last part), its because I didn’t put my passport number on the document ID part. Anyway, I already submitted my Ds-260 application online successfully. thanks!
May 13, 2018 at 15:24
hi brit,
I just complet my ds260 2018Af33***
please can I expect my schedule
Thank you
May 13, 2018 at 15:45
https://britsimonsays.com/vb-for-july-interviews-published/
May 13, 2018 at 18:26
I complet the filling today
I’m talking about processing time in my case
May 14, 2018 at 03:31
You waited over a year to fill in your DS260 – and now you are impatient?? Good grief. Wait and see.
May 14, 2018 at 08:12
Hi, our daughter was born in a foreign country. We were issued a birth certificate in that country however we are still waiting for her birth certificate and passport from our home country. Can we still complete the DS260 for the DV 2019 lottery. Her passport will arrive in time for interviews next year. The short question is does the DS260 require an identification number for the children in the application?
May 14, 2018 at 21:11
DV2019 selectees are not informed yet. If you win, then ask.
May 14, 2018 at 13:25
Uncertain about education requirements.
I do have high school finished, but I can’t find my papers from then, and the school itself shut down years ago.
I have a couple of years of university studies that I have papers for, though no degree.
Will that cause any problems?
I believe my work experience otherwise is enough, but I want to try to cover all bases.
May 14, 2018 at 14:13
Work experience is riskier.
Get your education documents in order.
https://britsimonsays.com/education-or-work-experience-qualifying-for-the-dv-lottery/
May 14, 2018 at 15:13
Previous address information…
I’m not sure it’s possible for me to dig up address and date information going back 25+ years.
Does it really have to be all the way to when you were 16?
May 14, 2018 at 16:08
Addresses I can figure out with some work, but dates is very difficult to find for 8 or 9 prior addresses…
May 14, 2018 at 16:20
Answer as accurately/honestly as possible.
May 15, 2018 at 15:49
Hi Britsimon
In my ds 260 form i forget to put my mom address will that lead to my denier.
May 15, 2018 at 16:18
No
May 16, 2018 at 05:32
Hey guys How are you doing?
I completed the DS 260 form after which I got the page saying that I succesfully submitted the form to KCC, but there is a panel where there is requirements for photo and also all dv applicants must obtain several civil documents and photo, what are they at all, do I need to upload a picture after the completion of dv form again? Thanks for your response in advance
May 16, 2018 at 05:37
Nothing more to do.
May 16, 2018 at 14:48
I just got picked for 2019 and am looking at the form. I worked in the US for about 2 months on a J1 back in 2000. I have no idea what my social security number was or the names of the bar I worked in or even the address of where I stayed – will this be a problem? Unfortunately it was before the internet was commonly used so there I’ve no electronic trail! Would this be an issue? Thanks for all the advice!
May 16, 2018 at 16:25
It’s no problem. You can get the number from the SSA when you are back in the USA. Don’t rush to complete the form – no prizes for rushing.
https://britsimonsays.com/dv-lottery-guide/
May 16, 2018 at 17:54
Cheers, when would you recommend having the form submitted by?
May 16, 2018 at 17:57
It depends on your number and circumstances. So – case number (with year and region)?
May 16, 2018 at 18:06
2019EU00005•••
May 16, 2018 at 18:15
OK – soo that is a low number. If you want to move to the USA quickly you can submit your DS260 over the next few weeks and will get an interview around November or December. That would mean moving to the USA (or at least activating) by middle of next year. You can delay that timeline if you want by delaying the DS260 submission.
May 16, 2018 at 20:00
Hi Brit,
What about number high number(2019EU28***), how long would you say it’s safe to wait ?
Kind Regards!
May 16, 2018 at 20:04
Until next year. Nothing will happen on that case until a year from now.
May 16, 2018 at 18:57
Hi Mr Brit, My wife just got selected for further processing for the 2019 round (I was born in Zimbabwe which she used in her application). Her passport has expired and some of our kids do not have passports yet (stressful delays!!). We will only be able to get these passports soonest in about a month from now. 1) Will we still be in time for the interview if we submit a month from now? We are from South Africa and her case number is in the high 4000’s. 2) Can she enter her old passport number in the DS-260 in order to move the form along and complete it now. Then just correct the passport number, before we submit, when we receive her new passport. Appreciate the help!
May 16, 2018 at 19:52
1. There is plenty of time. No need to rush.
2. She could do that – but again – no need to rush.
May 31, 2018 at 19:48
Hi BritSimon, with a case number of 2019AF48XX, do you have any idea yet what month our interview will be? I just found out our passports will only be ready in 3 weeks time and I’m worried we will miss the interview date if we wait this long to submit.
If we submit our DS260 at the end of june 2018 are we cutting it too close? I would not want to be rescheduled and face the risk of running out of green cards.
May 31, 2018 at 20:29
There is no risk. Relax, and take the time needed.
May 16, 2018 at 19:05
One more question from South Africa. I lived in Doha, Qatar on an expat assignment in 2006. During this time I moved twice. I can remember the dates fairly accurately, but I cannot remember the street addresses of two of the places where I stayed. Will I get away with a best google maps guess, or do I need to find the exact addresses of these places? Many thanks for the help.
May 16, 2018 at 19:53
Do the best you can.
May 16, 2018 at 21:52
Please ,I married to a man who has 3 children in his previous marriage ( now divorced) .we won visa lottery.
Please how do I add the name of 3 children in the form .More so I ( woman) am the principal applicant.You can mail me the answer on my mailing address (XXXX email address removed XXX)
May 16, 2018 at 22:59
When you entered the lottery you were already married – correct?
In that case you had to enter the 3 step children in your form. Did you do that? If you did not, then your case is not worth processing as you will be disqualified. The instructions are very clear.
May 16, 2018 at 23:18
I was born in Zimbabwe and my wife was born in South Africa. Both coutries are eligible for the DV lottery. My wife applied based on my country of birth (Zimbabwe) even though her country of birth is eligible. She was selected for further processing. Can she be disaualified?
May 16, 2018 at 23:37
It was a bit daft since both countries have identical chance of selection, but it should not result in disqualification. Read about elective cross charging on my link below.
https://britsimonsays.com/country-of-chargeability-for-dv-lottery/
May 16, 2018 at 23:50
Thanks. Do you advise that we continue with the application? It sounds like there is a small chance of disqualification? I would not want to progress this all the way to the interview if there is doubt. Is it sorth calling them to clarify?
May 17, 2018 at 19:24
Just for your info Mr Brit, I got this from the 9 FAM Rule 502.6-4. From the below it seems that it is quite acceptable to get a more favorable chance by selecting your spouses country of birth, even if your own country is eligible. Am I understanding this correctly?
“(d) A principal registrant born in a country that is among those for which DVs are available may derive a more favorable foreign state of chargeability from an accompanying alien spouse. For example, a principal applicant from a DV eligible country from a high-admission region may claim a more favorable chargeability from a spouse, who is from a DV eligible country from a low-admission region, provided the relationship was established prior to submitting the DV entry. In such instances, however, both applicants are considered principal applicants for the purpose of cross-chargeability and must be issued visas and apply for admission to the United States simultaneously.”
May 17, 2018 at 19:31
Did you not read my earlier comment where I pointed you to my earlier article describing that? What info do you think I need – I understand it very well.
My point was – yes it is possible, in your case it gave no advantage (so it was a silly complication to introduce) and using that rule introduces some downside (dual principal selectees). However, the embassy might just treat it as a simple mistake, and because it is within the same region, and no advantage was gained, that is not a risk.
May 17, 2018 at 15:07
hi Brit,
I got selected and my case number is 2019AS4*** (four thousand and —something) so when should i fill my ds260 form and when will i receive interview date.
And also i do not have anyone who i know of in USA and also i do not know where I will stay in USA so what should i do about permanent address.
May 17, 2018 at 16:41
You can complete your DS260 over the next couple of months. I don’t know when your interview will be exactly maybe early next year.
You need a US address. Have a think about how you can do that.
May 17, 2018 at 18:12
Can I and what if I complete my ds260 form right now?
May 17, 2018 at 18:40
Nothing – you just wait until your number is ready.
May 17, 2018 at 19:15
So I can fill my ds260 now?
How to get police record and translate birth certificate from native language to English?
And thank you so much Mr.BritSimon for all the information. I really appreciate your determination of helping others.
Best regards,
Ronan
May 17, 2018 at 19:24
Slow down. Go to the top of the page and review the guides, including the guide on the DS260. Read the FAQs. Relax. This is a slow process.
May 17, 2018 at 15:20
And also I am just 18 yrs old and my high school result is due for August.
So will there be any complications on further processing.
May 17, 2018 at 16:43
No problem. You must have the HS documents at the interview.
May 17, 2018 at 15:43
I’m still so much confused. You say “You do the same for each derivative (family member).” , but how to do the same?? Did you just mean that after the main applicant completed all his details, then the dependent family member need go up and to push “add applicant” button, and then what will happened next? The page will refresh and ask to fill form again or what? Will not this cause a lose of all data the main applicant just completed? I’m quite afraid to do so. Please, clarify as I still don’t understand how EACH family member should feel this form? Just including the details about a family member in main applicant’s ds-260 is not enough? I’m really confused. Please, help me to clarify.
May 17, 2018 at 16:47
The form can be saved as you go along. Calm down and try. Also – use REPLY to keep related messages together.
May 17, 2018 at 16:23
And I am from NEPAL.
May 17, 2018 at 18:22
Hi BritSimon,
Thank you for your very useful article!
I just found out that I have been selected and I have a question regarding the form DS-260 that I need to complete: I am 5 month-pregnant and I am not sure how to complete the form. Obviously I can’t “add an applicant” for un unborn child… Though I’m afraid that if I wait until my child is born (September) it will delay my application and compromise my chances to get a visa. If I understand well cases are treated on a first come first served basis, right?
In your article you say: “If you are expecting a child to be born during the DV lottery processing period there are also procedures in place to obtain a Green Card for that child. I will address that with a new article.”
Have you wrote your article about that yet? I’d love to read it or get your advice on this!
Thanks a lot
May 17, 2018 at 18:45
There is no need to rush to submit the DS260 – it is NOT first come first served. Interview priority is based on case number with interviews spread out through the whole of the fiscal year (up to September 30, 2019). NO case will be interviewed before October, and visas will not run out quickly!
So – my best advice (just for simplicity) is to delay your DS260 submission until after the birth. Depending on your case number, that may not delay your case at all anyway.
May 17, 2018 at 23:32
Hello,
If I answered Yes to the providing immunisation documentation question what will this mean for the interview? Also, just to clarify, when do we receive our case number that indicates how quickly we will get the visa interview? Just to clarify, after completing the DS260 form and receiving the confirmation page, am I required to do anything else at this stage, or am I waiting for a letter/email from Kentucky? Thank you!
May 17, 2018 at 23:41
I recommend people answer the vaccination question no because it is more accurate. However, answering yes won’t harm. In fact, prior to the interview you will have a medical where the vaccinations can be checked and updated if needed.
The case number is what you have already starting 2019XX000NNNN where XX is the region (AF, EU, AS, SA, OC, NA) and then some numbers.
After completing the DS260 you will wait. A long time. I actually recommend people don’t fill in the DS260 too quickly since there is no advantage and you might be better waiting.
May 17, 2018 at 23:49
thank you very much, very helpful! so just one more question, if your number is low hundreds (or under 100) does this indicate you’re in for a quicker interview, or longer?
May 18, 2018 at 00:32
Also I just wanted to confirm, at which stage would the photo be required? I’m assuming the stage after the Ds-206 form is submitted ?
May 18, 2018 at 00:56
Just slightly confused on this as the DS260 seemingly didn’t give me an option to upload a photo.. so I’m hoping I didn’t miss it and the photo will be required for the proceeding interview, clarification on this would be greatly appreciated.
May 18, 2018 at 02:06
At the interview.
May 18, 2018 at 02:08
Thanks so much!
May 18, 2018 at 00:03
Hello Simon,
I am in a complete mess and actually it is all because of my fault. I accidentaly or by chance discovered that had won 2018 lottery 2 days ago. Yesterday, I have completed my DS260 and sent it.
Now, let me start to ask my questions:
• My case number is 2018EU00014*** Do you think I have any chance to get green card? Am I too late? Is there any possibility for me to catch up on this year? Do I have chance to be interviewed?
• I am a PHD student currently and work as a project assistant in an university. I also had some work experience in different fields such as finance and logistics. So, does these factors affect my chance to be interviewed?
Best Regards
Merve
May 18, 2018 at 02:03
Relax, you will get an interview. You need to read the instructions to know how to prepare, but what you mention has nothing to do with whether you get interviewed or not. You will have to show you meet the education requirements.
May 18, 2018 at 11:55
Thank you so much for your quick answer =) God bless you, I hope I will also give you good news =)
Take care
May 18, 2018 at 12:31
Simon Hello again,
Do I need to send my documents to any place before interview? In ceac.state.gov website, my case is currently at KCC and it says “It will be reviewed once your civil documents have been submitted”. I am a bit confused.
Thanks,
Merve
May 18, 2018 at 15:25
Just relax and wait. Nothing to do for now except start getting documents ready and reading the instructions.
May 18, 2018 at 01:06
You didn’t answer my question regarding to “how to submit for the family member” ? This is article is quite incomplete.
May 18, 2018 at 01:16
At which stage did you need to upload a photo?
May 18, 2018 at 01:26
No, they don’t ask to upload a photo for this form.
May 18, 2018 at 01:36
Thanks, do you know when the digital photo will be required?
May 18, 2018 at 02:11
I think, after submitting a ds 260 form and sending to them, they will contact later, and tell whether they need or not to use your digital photo in further process. So no need to worries.
May 18, 2018 at 02:11
So far you have been posting 1 whole day and have made several complaints. Frankly I think you should find someone else to put up with your complaints for free.
May 18, 2018 at 01:16
I don’t understand how they want us to submit a separate ds 260 form for , as they say, for each family member? Since, I didn’t see any button saying like “add a new form”. The “add applicant” button only adds information to the MAIN applicant’s application for 1 family member. So therefore, technically its just one application. In overall, I confused about this process. I’ve used go to Canada in past, and their application process was MUCH more clear, and asked much less questions.
May 18, 2018 at 01:27
Why are you adding multiple people? Were they not on the original entry? Why not?
May 18, 2018 at 02:04
Multiple people? I’m just trying to add my wife. And it seems that I’ve just figured out that question I was asking.
May 18, 2018 at 03:25
Hi Brit,
May I also just ask for clarification on the rough next steps.. from what I’ve read the letter comes through, then would my interview already be booked in, or would I need to go online and complete the rest of the process? For ex I’m in Melbourne but the interview is in Sydney.. Also if the number is 00 then in the 90s, what does this mean timing wise?
May 18, 2018 at 04:44
Have you read the guide. Please do, and read the instructions you have been given. There is a lot of time to wait – your interview will be October at the earliest.
May 18, 2018 at 05:40
I have now. Thank you for this, I really wish I had read that earlier. Some of the wording simply gets confusing and contradictory. For example, why does it say you will need 2 digital photos to be uploaded when completing your DS206 form, however then on other sources it states you will only need to take these in the interview?
May 18, 2018 at 13:54
I don’t know.
May 20, 2018 at 09:23
Thanks for getting back to me. I’ve read carefully through the guide in addition to the FAQS. Last question on this, I can’t recall where but I read that this year they are being particularly strict on using “old photographs” could you just confirm that this is for the photographs that will be used at the interview? Also, they state that you must bring two physical copies in, in addition to the digital ones, will a link be provided to upload these ‘digital’ photos after the I have received my 2NL?
May 20, 2018 at 09:42
No you do not upload the photos. Take photos (new ones) to the interview.
May 20, 2018 at 10:51
Thanks Brit. Apologies for being pedantic on this matter. I just wanted to ensure I was in line with the photo specifications as I don’t recall which photo I uploaded originally when I first applied for the DV lottery and kept seeing “photo requirement instructions” and the importance of having a recent photo (obviously would hate to get disqualified on this requirement).. Based on what you have told me I am assuming that this ‘recent photo’ is the one I have to take to the interview, thanks again I truely appreciate your help.
May 18, 2018 at 06:04
Hi BritSimon,
Thank you for your time.
I received notification though the E-DV website that I have been selected for 2019 process.
I have a daughter who is an American citizen. And at the time that I submit the E-DV application I did not mention her. Should I also fill out the DS-260 for her?
Should she go to the interview, too?
my case number is 29*** So I can i fill my ds-260 now? or i need to
translate firt my documents from native language to English?
Thanks
May 18, 2018 at 13:59
You won’t create a DS260 for the US citizen. She will not interview, she should simply be on your DS260.
You don’t need to translate docs before completing the DS260
May 19, 2018 at 01:47
Hi Brit!
I have a few questions..my dad got pre selected for the lottery 2019.
1- his case number is ********13xxx. Is it a low number? Do I have to submit the form soon?
2-I’m his daughter who is turning 23 in August. I couldn’t initially add my name in his document as I’m over 21. But this time can I add my name for”add children ” for the dv 260 form?
May 19, 2018 at 05:28
1. I don’t know because you left off the region.
2. You can be listed as his child, but you cannot get a Green Card through his lottery win.
May 19, 2018 at 12:10
i am selected, i will fill up the DS260, does my spouse also have to fill separately the DS260 also as she will travel with me and secondly do I have to pay the fees before I fill the DS260 forms
May 19, 2018 at 15:19
OK – you need to read the guide now. Link above.
May 20, 2018 at 03:44
Hi Brit,
I have few questions during I fill the DV-260
I was picked by dv2019.
1. If I have been graduated from a vocational school, university and a master degree. Number of Educational Institutions Attended I should fill with 3 and listed all my school data included vocational school right? But Name of Institution I can’t fill full name of my vocational school because of its name too long. The Affiliated Senior Industrial Vocational School of National Changhua University of Education… How should I fill it? Or just fill it anyway.
2. If I use J1 visa to America for working and traveling. Between 13-JUN-2014 and 28-SEP-2014. The length of stay can I just fill it with 5 months? And I have ever been driving to CANADA and back to America during this period. Should I also need to list it? Or just fill the Date Arrived from 13-JUN-2014 and stay 5 months. I also need to list the work experience(J1) to the DS-260?
3. If I already got a SSN during J1 visa. What is difference yes or no in Q:Do you need a new card issued?
Very thanks for answering.
James
May 20, 2018 at 05:38
1. Use your own judgement.
2. List everything as accurately as possible.
3. Answer no.
May 20, 2018 at 16:22
Hi, I have made a mistake in completing the DS260 form …. I did not register my fellow student’s degree … please give me guidance
May 20, 2018 at 16:24
Read the FAQ about unlocking.
May 20, 2018 at 16:55
At the interview will I need to submit evidence of all education or just my highest level? I have a masters degree for which I have the certificates but don’t have any evidence of completing school. Should I try and get this?
May 20, 2018 at 17:24
Provide proof for all education from about age 12 and up.
May 21, 2018 at 21:10
Hello,
My sister lives in Brazil, can I start her D260 application from the US, save it, then she can submit it from her end later? The internet connection in Brazil sucks.
Thank you.
May 21, 2018 at 21:46
Yes
May 23, 2018 at 20:36
I would start as a “third-party” since I’m not the applicant, correct?
May 23, 2018 at 21:47
It doesn’t matter.
May 21, 2018 at 21:37
Thanks, Simon, Sorry I have a further question! I’m completing the previous address section but there are two periods (one four month period and one eight month period) when I was at University that I cannot remember the address at all. I’ve tried google maps etc but I really have no idea and I would be guessing. Should I just write don’t know and include the city and country? Or will this be a problem. It was over 15 years ago and I honestly have no way to get the info. Thanks for your help with this.
May 21, 2018 at 21:49
You just do the best you can…