DV lottery guide
This presentation above should answer most questions for DV2016 applicants. You will find links to some important articles and a guide on completing your DS260.
I will update the presentation with additional detail as needed – so feel free to ask questions and give me feedback.
If you cannot see the version above please use this link to access the article directly.
January 17, 2019 at 12:48 am
Hi there,
I am a DV lottery winner for 2019 in the OCEANIA with a number just above 950. My question is, I just renewed my 01 visa so Im am lawfully in the USA with a non immigrant visa valid till late 2021. I am yet to do a DS_160 yet but I am unsure about whether to do consulate processing of AOS as the numbers seem to be going very slowly and im worried as AOS takes longer that it will expire before i have the greencard. Is it safer and quicker to do consulate processing over AOS, I just want to do which ever one is more likely to get me the GC , whatever cost is and considering using a lawyer so i dont mess this up.
January 17, 2019 at 3:53 am
1. Using a lawyer will typically make things worse. There is no need, and no advantage because they do not know the DV process.
2. AOS can be a bit “scary” because you must not go past September 30th. However, most AOS cases can be processed before the end of the year, especially when someone takes advantage of early filing.
3. CP is more straightforward, but you must do the whole process in your home country (medicals, interview then wait for the passport) so being out of the USA for some weeks can be problematic.
All you need to know about CP is in the official instructions/this site. If you want to go via AOS read the link below, especially the spreadsheet linked from the first post on that thread.
https://forums.immigration.com/threads/dv-2019-aos-only.337772/
February 1, 2019 at 7:18 pm
Hi,
I’m lawfully in the US with an F1 visa, I got selected for the DV 2019. My case number got current in November but due to some problems, I couldn’t file immediately. I was thinking for an adjustment but I just recently found that they can take really long so I’m considering changing that to CP instead. But the problem is, I’m taking classes this semester, one is online so I can handle that but the other one is in class. And I’m not sure about the interview dates and the amount of time that I’ll have to spend in my home country. Can you please suggest me something, or give me any ideas on how I might be able to work through this?
February 1, 2019 at 10:38 pm
What case number do you have?
February 23, 2019 at 6:26 pm
Hi, thank you for your response.
My case number is AS644.
Sorry for the late response, apparently, I hadn’t subscribed, so I didn’t get the notification.
February 23, 2019 at 6:29 pm
Also, I changed it to CP, so they changed my interview location. I had submitted my DS-260 right when the results were out. How long do you think will it take for the DS-260 to process? Like when will they send me the second letter.
Thanks a ton for taking the trouble!
February 23, 2019 at 7:28 pm
It can take a month or two after you submit your DS260 and documents to be scheduled. And with CP you will have to be in your country for around 3 weeks as a minimum (enough to have the medical and then wait for your passport). If you get AP that delay after interview will be longer.
March 11, 2019 at 6:20 pm
I just found out that I have to scan and send kcc the documents first so that they can schedule my interview. So I’m assuming my interview will be around May or June? With the current volume of visa being granted, doing think it seems fairly positive? Thank you!
March 11, 2019 at 11:22 pm
You just found out about the documents? My last reply mentioned them, as do the official instructions. Please read them.
March 12, 2019 at 3:28 am
Hi Brit,
I was aware that I have to scan and send the documents but I didn’t know if it was before or after the interview was scheduled. Also the instruction on the official page said that kcc would send an email asking for the documents (scan copies) but I didn’t receive any such email. 😕
Any suggestions? Would really appreciate your help. Honestly I’m so clueless about this.
I did email them again though asking them to send me a list of documents I need to send them and further process if any.
March 12, 2019 at 12:51 pm
You will not be scheduled until you scan and send the documents. So do that. Or read the FAQ.
May 9, 2019 at 4:02 pm
Hi BritiSimon I have won. My case number is 27xx. Do you think i have a good opportunity to get he green card? I am from italy
May 9, 2019 at 7:48 pm
Yes.
May 9, 2019 at 7:58 pm
I am in Usa with a valid student visa. With case num 27xx do i need any dc to upload for the ds 160? Or i have to put basit info?
January 31, 2019 at 8:30 am
I am winner of dv 2019.I was unmarried at that time and I have submitted all my documents and I have also got notification from KCC already. But now I am married.
Can I reopen it so that I can submit my wife’s document too? My case number is 2019AS60**.
January 31, 2019 at 2:08 pm
You can ask KCC to unlock and explain why.
February 7, 2019 at 9:25 am
Hi Britt,
I’m lawfully in the US with an F2 visa and my spouse with an F1 our daughter it’s a US Citizen and I got selected for the DV 2019.
My case number is 2019SA000010**, I filled out my DS 260 letting the KCC know that I would like to go for an adjustment of status (AOS), so I went to the ceac website to see my case number status and it says that the case its at the Nacional de Visas (NVC), but when I get into the visa center there are some instructions that say if you are applying for an AOS please notify the NVC and do not ay the fees for the visa center, so in your experience, Should I wait till I get my 2NL? or Should I contact the NVC?
Thanks in advance for your time and constant support with this website.
God bless ya, my friend.
February 7, 2019 at 2:08 pm
Ignore everything it says on CEAC under NVC status. Just follow the procedure for AOS.
The procedure is best described on the link below, with a full guide linked from post 1 on that thread.
https://forums.immigration.com/threads/dv-2019-aos-only.337772/
February 21, 2019 at 12:31 am
Hi, do you know if the DHL confirmation page has a bar code or just the general info about my case? . I am trying to send out the docs to the embassy and the DHL agent is asking for a confirmation slip or letter. The one I have has the case #, passport # and the date of the interview but not a bar code.
February 21, 2019 at 12:37 am
I don’t know.
May 14, 2019 at 10:46 pm
Hi simon! Can u please assist me with checking my dvlottery2020 results? I’ve sent details on you email since it doesn’t seem to work in my country!
Thanks
May 15, 2019 at 3:27 am
http://britsimonsays.com/dv2020-basic-questions/
March 15, 2019 at 7:13 am
Hi Brit
There is kind of delay can see in AS region about document submission than last few months . Why is it stuck situation still now ….And this month any one doesnt receive mail for document submission why is that
PLS GIVE YOUR idea
Thanks
March 15, 2019 at 3:22 pm
People need to STOP focussing on the email. FORGET THE EMAIL. Just use some common sense and submit the documents at the appropriate time.
March 21, 2019 at 4:40 am
Following links under RTFM INSTRUCTIONS slide are broken;
– https://travel.state.gov/content/visas/english/immigrate/diversity-visa/if-you-are-selected.html
– https://travel.state.gov/content/visas/english/fees/reciprocity-by-country.html
– https://travel.state.gov/content/visas/english/immigrate/diversity-visa/interview/prepare-for-the-interview.html
I think correct links are;
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/diversity-visa-program-entry/diversity-visa-if-you-are-selected.html
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/Visa-Reciprocity-and-Civil-Documents-by-Country.html
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/diversity-visa-program-entry/diversity-visa-interview/diversity-visa-prepare-for-interview.html
March 21, 2019 at 1:51 pm
Thanks
April 5, 2019 at 10:36 pm
Hello Brits, what should i do if my Son turns 21 before the visa is issued
April 5, 2019 at 11:45 pm
Read my faq about that.
April 14, 2019 at 2:00 pm
Hi Brit,
I am qualified for 2019 DV lottery and I have already submitted the DS260 forms for me and alliens. Is there any other documents to submit to KCC in addition of DS260? Also my case number is around AF208100 and till date my case number status is “at NVC”. I really need your help please
April 14, 2019 at 2:27 pm
http://britsimonsays.com/new-document-submission-procedure-update/
April 17, 2019 at 6:31 am
hi britsmon i have sent documents to kcc .and cobfirmed……my case no is AF000245** still no interview date that is released for june what is a problem ?
April 17, 2019 at 10:52 pm
“what is a problem ” – Lack of patience.
http://britsimonsays.com/vb-for-june-2019-interviews-released/
April 17, 2019 at 7:32 am
Hi molla when did u send ur doc and when did u get valid if it is on march u will get 2nl this month
April 20, 2019 at 2:29 pm
hi britsimon my case number is AF14*** and i have sent documents to kcc but untul now i have not any interview date. i think the case that we are together they are already has their interview date. so what kind of probleme do i have ?
April 20, 2019 at 4:22 pm
Lack of patience most likely.
You could email KCC to see if they are satisfied with your documents.
April 22, 2019 at 11:14 am
i already sent an eamil to kcc which that i asked if they have a probleme with my documents but they did not reclame any probleme , i received an auto-repaly email which explain how the processe are so can you help me how to send an email from kcc ? i think the way that i sent an email is false thanks britsimon
April 22, 2019 at 1:59 pm
It’s common sense. Use that, or be patient.
April 22, 2019 at 2:44 pm
Hi
I’m from Sierra Leone, West Africa. My wife won the 2018 DV with case number 2019AF0002XXXX but yet to fill and submit the DS260 and we weren’t married by then. Now she wants to fill the form including me. Is it okay she include me since we are married now and is it not too late to submit the DS260 for this case number?
Thanks in advance
April 22, 2019 at 8:52 pm
It’s OK but she needs to do that ASAP.
April 23, 2019 at 7:14 am
Tnx Brit,
So is there any deadline for submission of the DS260 referencing the 2018 winners?
April 23, 2019 at 1:30 pm
Because of the new procedure and backlogs people should not be waiting to submit the DS260.
April 23, 2019 at 3:49 pm
hi brits !! i was sent scaned documents to kcc and confirmed…..but the the birth date certificate was not interpreted to english because of not knowing. It is in amharic….. i was sent documetns which is transleted, still not accepted……then is there a problem on only untranslated birth date certicate ?
April 23, 2019 at 4:40 pm
The email asks for translations. So follow instructions.
May 6, 2019 at 9:31 am
I would be too much grateful if i get clear answer of these questions.
May 7, 2019 at 12:14 am
Hi Brit,
What document are needed to complete DS 260 ?
Thank you
May 7, 2019 at 5:29 am
Follow the guide completely.
May 7, 2019 at 7:25 pm
Hi Brit,
In the DV application my first and last name are correct but there is a mistake in middle name. Is that an issue?
May 7, 2019 at 8:57 pm
You can enter the correct name in the DS260 – and if you do that, it should not create a problem.
May 8, 2019 at 11:42 am
Thank you for your clarification and thanks God that your are there to answer us.
I will elaborate, in our passports our names are written as (My name Nabil, father name Radha , grand father name Mohammad) all as Given Name then (Family name Al-Nakib).
I the DV application form some how I put My name, Grand father name and family name!
I.e in my passport it is Nabil Radha Mohammad Al-Nakib
In the DV form I put Nabil Mohammad Saleh Al-Nakib.
Should I just submit the DS 260 with correct info or reach KCC and explain to them to correct.
God bless you and your family.
May 8, 2019 at 5:28 pm
I already answered you. Re-read what I said.
May 9, 2019 at 2:57 am
Hi Brit, my CN is 2020AS21*** from Iraq.
Can I submit the DS260 immediately?
Thanks
May 9, 2019 at 4:49 am
http://britsimonsays.com/dv2020-entrants-and-winners-please-read-this/
May 8, 2019 at 6:09 am
Hi there! As for yesterday the check status for DV 2020 is available but of course yesterday the site was responding sooo slow so I decided to let it go and check it today….but now I see that the https://www.dvlottery.state.gov/ESC/ is basically down; it’s not just is responding slow, “the site can’t be reached”. Should i just wait another couple of hours? does this happened before?
May 8, 2019 at 4:13 pm
http://britsimonsays.com/checking-your-dv2020-lottery-result/
May 11, 2019 at 5:00 pm
Hi Brit,
The Problem of checking the dvlottery results is persistent in my country! Can you assist me please!
May 11, 2019 at 5:13 pm
http://britsimonsays.com/dv2020-basic-questions/
May 9, 2019 at 1:10 am
hi Brit, we are one of the lucky ones. But, I have a medical condition. I am recently diagnosed with TB and under medication now. I need to take medicine for four more months until I get clearance from the medical office. Do I have to wait until that time to kick off the process or can we start soon?
May 9, 2019 at 1:20 am
The DV process is slow. The EARLIEST interviews will start in October, and interviews will be spread over a full year after October (until September 30, 2020), ordered by case number. So – you have plenty of time to take your treatment and get the all clear. Read the lottery guide above.
May 9, 2019 at 12:24 pm
Thank you Brit… But, it seems like Lottery Guide link is broken. It’s saying that “TOTO, WE ARE NOT IN KANSAS ANYMORE…” A server error occured and unexplained things are happening around us. Close
May 9, 2019 at 12:29 pm
Sounds like they are having a problem – be patient and try again later. Read the FAQ and other info while you wait.
May 9, 2019 at 3:21 am
Hi brit
I lost my passport when last week. I finished the all process except interview. i will get interview when the end of May.
1. Is that a porblem to get interview with replacement passport?
2. Can i get embassy for interview with replacement passport without police clearance? Because of the previous passport number attached with the replacement passport.
May 9, 2019 at 4:48 am
1. No.
2. That’s OK.
May 9, 2019 at 11:13 pm
I BritishSimon. as a winner, i started the DS 260. I found a problem on the section PRESENT AND PREVOIUS INFORMATION. 5 years ago i was an aupair in Connecticut. When my visa expired, after 1 year, i went back to italy to get a student visa. I got the student visa and I am in the usa with a valid visa. My address is always in Connecticut but in a different family. What should i putin this section? The sistem told me there is a gap in the dates
May 9, 2019 at 11:53 pm
You should fill in the truth, but I suggest you should not be rushing to submit a DS260 yet. There is plenty of time and there downsides to submitting.
May 10, 2019 at 12:45 am
in this section, do i have to add also my home’s address in italy? Because i am going to address 1)my address in usa with visa F1 2)address when i was aupair in usa 3) address when i was in italy, at home. That s right?
May 10, 2019 at 1:04 am
I am not looking at the form, so please just follow the instructions.
May 10, 2019 at 1:53 am
I typed my middle name incorrectly, and I won the DV. what would be the your suggestion for me? will i be qualified to go to the interview?
May 10, 2019 at 2:35 am
If you had read my FAQ, you would have found this:
http://britsimonsays.com/faq/made-xxx-mistake-original-entry-will-disqualified/
May 10, 2019 at 8:24 pm
Hello Simon,
Thanks for your ongoing assistance with many cases! Great stuff! I was selected for the DV-2020 Oceania region, case number in the high 1400’s. I’m curious, this is the first year that has any influence under the Trump administration. The application for the DV-2020 was much more “involved” than previous years. I’m wondering how if I have a shot with a number in the high 1400’s?
Due to the application process requiring much information, do believe that having such a high number maybe due to many numbers ahead of me being disqualified?
Thanks in advance!
May 10, 2019 at 11:09 pm
Numbers in the 1400s have made it in past years, usually because of low responses, not disqualifications. However, it is too early to know enough. Trump can barely find his toupee in the morning, let alone influence this process. Have a read of this.
http://britsimonsays.com/dv2020-basic-questions/
May 11, 2019 at 3:58 am
Thank you once again! I really appreciate the amount of effort you have put into this site!
May 12, 2019 at 12:45 am
I forgot the email address I wrote in the first time..can I do another one???
May 12, 2019 at 12:50 am
Yes
May 12, 2019 at 1:01 am
How please???
May 12, 2019 at 2:56 am
Be specific. How what?
May 12, 2019 at 10:07 pm
How can I send them the new email address ??
Thanks for your reply
Another question ..filling the ds240 soon will it help in case of big numbers
May 13, 2019 at 1:45 am
YOu give an email address in the DS260.
http://britsimonsays.com/dv2020-dont-submit-ds260-until-you-read-this/
May 12, 2019 at 1:05 am
My case number is 2020AF000590xx
Should I be holding to any slight of hope?
May 12, 2019 at 2:56 am
It is FAR too early to know.
May 14, 2019 at 6:46 am
i applied last year but i cant find my confirmation number but when i put forgotten they ask me for information i used while registering which i have provided but they keep telling me its invalid .. wat can i do now
May 14, 2019 at 1:34 pm
If you cannot enter the details correctly, there is nothing else you can do. Try again in the next lottery.
May 21, 2019 at 9:51 am
i have filled and submitted DS-260 after winning DV lottery in oceania region 2020OC000001XX. 1.) is that a good number?
the instructions said that i just need to obtain civil documents 2. Do i need to wait for further instructions from KCC or i have to scan the documents to them?
please advise
May 21, 2019 at 2:04 pm
1. Yes
2. Wait for them.
May 22, 2019 at 1:23 am
Hello Dear Britsimons my wife won dv lottorey green card but we dont have any child , and i have 2 children from my previous wife so on my page DS 260 forum asking me do you have children what should i do ? do i need to add them on ds-260
May 22, 2019 at 2:08 am
Were you married before the lottery entry?
If yes, did you and your wife list your children on the original entry (with photos)?
May 22, 2019 at 11:01 pm
can you help me check my details in dvlottery 2019
May 22, 2019 at 11:58 pm
http://britsimonsays.com/dv2020-basic-questions/
May 25, 2019 at 8:09 pm
Hi there!!!
Am kenoly from Cameroon, Africa. My case number is 59869. Wish to know my chances of being called for an interview, please!
May 25, 2019 at 8:45 pm
Low, but it is too early to know for sure. In a couple of months we will know more.