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July 19, 2026 at 03:41
Hi Simon, Greetings. I have watched your recent live on youtube and you mentioned they don’t have to print the visa by 30th September, they just have to approve it before September 30th. does this mean those who have got their visa approved and printed, and later was cancelled without prejudice due to the DV pause can be re-issued after September 30th?
July 19, 2026 at 08:49
No. That would still need to be approved before the deadline.
July 18, 2026 at 21:50
Hi Simon,
First, just wanted to say I really appreciate the work you do and the time you put into helping people navigate the Diversity Visa process.
I’m a German-born dual Canadian/German citizen living in Canada and had a question about future Diversity Visa opportunities. I was wondering if you happen to know much about the I-601 Waiver, specifically the religious/moral objection waiver (I want to be clear I completely respect everyone’s personal decisions on this topic, and I’m not looking to start any kind of debate or argument).
From what I understand, I-601 waivers can take quite a long time to process. Given the Diversity Visa program’s strict visa issuance deadline and cutoff date, would pursing this type of waiver even be realistically possible in the DV context? Would you happen to know anyone that has had success with the I-601 waiver (religious/moral) in a DV context?
Any insights you might have would be greatly appreciated. Thank you again for your time and everything you do to help the DV community.
July 18, 2026 at 23:23
I don’t have any data or insights to offer on that topic.
July 18, 2026 at 23:42
No worries, thank you anyways!
July 18, 2026 at 16:29
As an an Iranian Canadian male who has been in 221(g) since my interview in November, in all my previous follow-ups, the consulate said my AP was still processing. My yesterday follow up, however, they didn’t mention that my AP was still processing. Instead, they only referred to the current DV pause. Could this mean that my AP has been completed and the only thing preventing visa issuance now is the DV pause? Thanks
July 18, 2026 at 23:19
It is tempting to read meaning into their statements – but I don’t think they are that careful with what they reply…
July 18, 2026 at 09:53
Hi Simon,
Thank you for sharing your experience.
We have been in the U.S. on an E-2 visa for 3 years. My wife was selected for DV-2026, and we chose Adjustment of Status on the DS-260. USCIS received our I-485 and I-765 on July 2, and we received the receipt notices.
From your experience:
1. Does contacting my local Congressman help, and what assistance can they provide?
2. Is calling USCIS about our case beneficial?
Thank you, and God bless everyone.
July 18, 2026 at 23:18
I leave most AOS questions to “Sm1smom” – here: https://forums.immigration.com/threads/dv-2026-aos-adjustment-of-status-process-only.352867/
July 17, 2026 at 14:50
hi Simon, been reading up on DV recently and never entered before. I fully appreciate it’s on pause at the moment but i’d be interested in giving it a go. On the off chance I won, what would you recommend in terms of bringing my girlfriend? We’ve been together 8 years but not married, from my reading online it would seem the go-to approach would be to hold off after being selected, get married, then submit the DS-260. Would you agree with this?
my only concern would be the time it would take to organize the marriage, would this have any impact on the process? Just conscious of the timelines. My understanding is its more based on case number, so my submission time of the form wouldn’t be as important.
I just ask because at least in Ireland, it would be a bare minimum legal 3 month waiting period before any marriage.
I’ve also researched would getting any other sort of other legally binding marriage that’s quicker be a better approach. I note Denmark to be quite good in this regard.
many thanks, have found your videos very informative. hopefully I’ll be back in a year or so for more of your help!
justin
July 17, 2026 at 19:01
Your chance of selection is about 1 in 100 years, so you are probably overthinking this.
If you win, you get married. Simple. No need to to plan anything beyond that.
July 17, 2026 at 12:39
Hello Simon,
Do you know when the visa bulletin for September will be available?
July 17, 2026 at 13:25
Not exactly. It should be today or Monday
July 16, 2026 at 16:54
Hi Simon,
I received an email from my interview embassy giving me information to prepare for the interview. They ask me to upload required documents via a link whose send me to CEAC, but I cannot upload anything via the website.
Any idea what I should do ?
July 16, 2026 at 21:48
Ignore that instruction.
July 16, 2026 at 15:39
For those who were interviewed afew days before the pause came in place and got affected by the pause since the visas had not been issued.
Passorts returned less the visa stamp.
Should we remain hopeful even after the long wait that things may turn out better in the few remaining days?.
Is there hope to recieve the visa before the deadline clocks up.
July 16, 2026 at 21:47
Yes there is still hope especially for plaintiffs. People will need new medicals. So it’s hope, not a guarantee.
July 16, 2026 at 23:29
Though not a plaintif but half of the family received their visas and one is still pending,,, in this case, is there still hope.
July 16, 2026 at 23:38
Yes.
July 16, 2026 at 06:52
Hi Brit’s!! Will my 15 years old daughter who will turn 16 in November will be interviewed?? And what should she prepare for??
July 16, 2026 at 09:22
Yes she will attend the interview – you prepare her documents as needed, but other than that she won’t be questioned.
July 15, 2026 at 13:38
Do you think it will be easier to get selected in the future with the new requirements implemented to the lottery? If so, how much? Thanks.
July 15, 2026 at 16:11
Maybe slightly. There will be less entries, so if they select the same amount the chance of selection will have increased a little. But it will still be a lottery….
July 14, 2026 at 08:36
Hi Simon, The U.S. Embassy in Nepal was doing great, but they’ve suddenly slowed down a lot and even skipped July interviews. I’m worried that if they continue the same pace, I might not get a September interview.
I’m a plaintiff in the Medani case. Do you think there’s a chance the court could rule in favor of plaintiffs who are current but never receive a 2NL? Have there been any similar cases in the past where current applicants who didn’t get an interview were ultimately granted relief through the courts?
July 14, 2026 at 08:59
No – you have to be interviewed, and the lawsuits won’t directly force embassies to interview specific cases. However, a last minute push of interviews is possible after a favorable ruling.
July 14, 2026 at 05:38
PI rejected and converted to summary judgement for Immpact round 2. Thoughts?
Sad to see multiple suits have been filed and we’re in the same position as December 2025.
July 14, 2026 at 05:40
I really hope that Judge Leon is not considering consolidating these cases and issuing one general opinion, because only towards the end of July could we expect him to even begin preparing a general judgment with minor adjustments for each type of lawsuit. In this scenario, we probably wouldn’t see the actual ruling until a couple of weeks later. On top of that, we still have to account for the time needed to implement the order, repeat the medical examinations, send the passports, and have them collected. This is a catastrophic timeline.
July 14, 2026 at 08:37
Again. Let me repeat. DV2020 the order was issued September 4th… 7000 interviews were scheduled, medicals performed, visas issued and so on.
July 14, 2026 at 08:44
We should not be hoping for a decision in September, regardless of what happened 5-6 years ago.
July 14, 2026 at 09:01
I’m not hoping for a September ruling – just pointing out that the “catastrophic timeline” comment is incorrect.
July 14, 2026 at 10:03
I actually agree it’s quite catastrophic with all the follow on work required, it’s mid July & we have no idea when this judgement is coming.
July 14, 2026 at 06:09
source ?
July 14, 2026 at 08:36
I’m still in the wait and see camp. As I have said before, these things are difficult to predict, and the only thing that is important is getting the final judgement.
July 14, 2026 at 08:42
Key thing here is that the final judgement needs to be provided in a reasonable timeframe. The reasonable timeframe is now, not August or September.
There’s still a lot of work to do, after the final judgement.
July 14, 2026 at 08:51
Hi BritSimon – is the above comment true – has the PI been rejected? Or is this just a hypothetical from commenter above?
July 14, 2026 at 09:02
Yes the Judge rejected the PI in the Immpact 2nd case. He has instead set a very fast SJ timeline.
July 14, 2026 at 10:00
Unfortunately, round 1 had a very fast SJ timeline.
And look where we are now, mid July – still waiting for 2 months & counting after all briefings were completed.
We can’t wait 2+ months for a decision in round 2.
July 14, 2026 at 13:42
We don’t control the timeline.
July 14, 2026 at 13:46
That’s very clear. The gov have ran rings around everyone on these DV cases, despite people thinking these are simple cases to win with 99% confidence.
They ultimately achieved their objectives, even if the late final judgements come in our favour.
July 14, 2026 at 15:18
And now you are back to my earlier point. Damage is done day by day but “catastrophic”, to me, has a different meaning.
July 14, 2026 at 16:06
This is as catastrophic as it can get. Please let me know how this could be worse?
July 14, 2026 at 17:22
The difference is timing and impact. You say an order in August is catastrophic. But in reality there would still be time for thousands of visas to be issued. Of course some would lose their chance, but not all. The later the order, the more impact.
July 14, 2026 at 00:35
Dear Simon,
We are having our interview next week in Armenia.
1. Do I understand it correctly that if we have a choice to leave the passports at the embassy, it’s better to leave them there?
2. If we are not provided with this option, is it ok to ask the officer to keep our passports within the embassy for if the pause gets lifted?
July 14, 2026 at 08:34
1. I don’t know how that particular embassy handle that.
2. Yes, you can ask.
July 15, 2026 at 17:34
Hey Anna,
What is you case number? I’m 28XXX also in Armenia and current but haven’t received 2NL yet. Wanted to know if there is a backlog.
Is there a telegram/whatsapp or similar groupchat available for Yerevan embassy? Thank you!
July 13, 2026 at 12:33
Dear Simon, I’d like to share I got my 2nl for Frankfurt today! Thank you for everything 🙂
July 13, 2026 at 13:10
What case number?
July 13, 2026 at 13:32
Great!
July 13, 2026 at 10:35
Hello Simon. thanks for the work. Please did you finally get to check out the MC law firm filling this new DV case? Any information on them please?
July 13, 2026 at 13:30
I had no response up to now
July 13, 2026 at 02:37
Dear Simon, I am a DV-2024 lawful permanent resident. My family and I first entered the U.S. in December 2024. During our most recent entry, my wife and children had been outside the U.S. for more than six months, while I had always returned within six months. CBP referred us to secondary inspection, questioned us extensively, and eventually admitted us. However, the officer warned that on a future entry he might require a fee of approximately $650–$700 before admitting us or refer the matter to an immigration judge. None of us signed Form I-407, and we did not receive any court documents. We are currently outside the U.S. because we have not yet been able to secure suitable employment and a place to live, which has made relocating the entire family challenging, although we still intend to establish our lives in the United States. We are considering returning in before the six months. In your opinion, how serious is our situation, what steps should we take before the next entry, and could you please refer us to an experienced U.S. immigration lawyer for a paid consultation regarding possible abandonment concerns
July 13, 2026 at 09:40
If you are going to speak to a lawyer – then it is pointless for me to give my opinion. You can contact Jesse Bless. https://blesslitigation.com/
July 13, 2026 at 11:42
Thanks alot brit
But i would love to get your opinion as it matters to as always , if don’t mind of course.
July 12, 2026 at 21:48
Bonjour SIMON
I respect your opinion and greatly value the advice you share. I have a few questions regarding immigration to the United States and the current political outlook, and I would be very grateful to hear your thoughts on them:
1. Coming to America at 40 Years Old: Is it possible to start completely from scratch at this age, or is it too late?
2. The Political Climate: Do you think the U.S. will ever return to how it was during the eras of Barack Obama and Bill Clinton, specifically regarding the reduction of the division and hatred associated with Trump and the MAGA movement?
3. DV Lottery Forecast (2027 & 2028): What is your estimated percentage or likelihood that the Green Card Lottery for 2027 and 2028 will open and function smoothly as before, allowing winners to obtain their visas without major obstacles or disruptions?
4. Public Support for Trump: Do you believe that the general public still strongly supports Donald Trump?
5. The 2029 Presidential Election: In your opinion, do you think the Republican Party will succeed in winning the 2029 presidential election, or will we see a Democratic president take office?
Thank you very much for your time and for everything you do.
July 13, 2026 at 09:38
1. It’s fine. I was 50 when I came.
2. I am hopeful.
3. DV2027 and DV28 will run – but will it be smooth sailing – probably not.
4. No
5. Dems
July 12, 2026 at 21:42
Hi Simon. My name is Aldo from Indonesia. Regarding DV 27, it is written that registration must use a passport scan, where one page must contain a biography page and a signature page. Unfortunately, my Indonesian passport is separate between the biography and signature pages. My question is, do these pages have to be merged into one file? And is there a special format like the diversity visa photo requirements? I’m afraid my application will not be approved because of this signature and biography passport scan format. Thank you.
July 13, 2026 at 09:36
Yes I suggest merging into one file – a jpg will do.
July 12, 2026 at 18:59
Hi Uncle Simon
Hope you are keeping well.
Just a simple questions, so me and my spouse have had our interview in May 26 (placed on 221g) and we fall in the 75 country pause and have participated in Round 1 of immpact lawsuit also.
So where we are worried is on our ds260 form, we had given the greencard delivery address to one of our relatives residing in the states, but they are now shifting from that address to another address.
What do we do in this type of situation? Should we email the embassy or kcc, or wait for abit for some type of decision to come from the lawsuit and then inform them about the new address?
Pls help 🙂
July 12, 2026 at 19:30
You can update the address at the POE when you first enter the USA
July 12, 2026 at 14:34
I’m concerned about meeting the public charge / financial threshold at interview. I don’t currently have savings that meet the poverty guideline level.
If my parents gave me money like over the mark 15k ish to the interview and it was sitting in my bank account, would that be accepted as proof of financial sufficiency? Or would the officer see through it?
July 12, 2026 at 14:57
Money in an account is sometimes taken as meeting the public charge requirement. It varies case by case.
July 12, 2026 at 11:37
Hi Simon,
If for example i apply for DV30 in October 2028, and graduate highschool in June 2029, and in the DV application, i list my highest education level as High School no degree, would that be an automatic disqualifier?
Or if i list my highest as High School with degree, could i be disqualified later because i dont have my diploma at the time of applying?
July 12, 2026 at 14:55
No – you have to meet the education standard by the time of interview, not entry.
July 12, 2026 at 04:55
Simon, I feel heartbroken and cheated by everything. I applied for the dv lottery in 2024. Was told in May 2025 that my application hadn’t been selected. I was then told in October 2025 that a mistake had been made and I actually had been selected. I completed the forms, told my ds-260 had been processed and that now I just had to wait for an interview call on London. I have an eu12.3k number.
I only learnt yesterday about the fact the entire thing is suspended and that effectively the current winners are being deliberately delayed to prevent them from getting their visas approved.
I appreciate there’s not much I can do but just wanted to vent because I suppose there’s nothing I can do. I feel horrible, especially that my whole application was delayed by months initially because of a mistake the us government made
July 12, 2026 at 14:48
The reason you were selected at all is because of my lawsuit on behalf of UK entrants. It’s a pity you didn’t find out about that and follow me because you would have been better informed.
Now you will have to wait for the outcome of more lawsuits that aim to end the pauses – but if you want there is one more lawsuit being onboarded this week that might have a chance.
https://mclawfirm.com/dv-lottery-2026-lawsuit/
July 13, 2026 at 14:49
I wish I was aware sooner.
But thank you for your lawsuit on behalf of the UK entrants. It has at least given me the tiniest glimmer of hope. Unfortunately I don’t even have an interview date despite everything so joining any lawsuit would be an even higher risk for me.
Thanks Simon.
July 12, 2026 at 01:42
Hello there. I’m a winner of DV 2026 lottery from Russia. I’m late for any class action lawsuit because they already filed and I’m very late to find out about them. Is there any chance to fight newest ban of immigration visas issue for me right now? My case number seems to be in the August (I’m 27k in EU, August is up to 29k)
July 12, 2026 at 14:43
There is one more lawsuit onboarding for a few more days. You could look at that, or just wait and hope for the pauses to be lifted.
https://mclawfirm.com/dv-lottery-2026-lawsuit/
July 11, 2026 at 13:03
Hi Brit👑
My case number 28XXX ı didnt still get 2nl my embassy is vienna is there any thing to worry ?
July 11, 2026 at 13:06
Well we can’t be sure what capacity they will make available for interviews. We can only wait and see.
July 18, 2026 at 22:51
Hi,
fellow Viennese here. Did you get your 2NL by now? After the News from Egypt I worry the embassy may also be under the false impression that there are no
Visas left . Maybe they won’t free capacity because of that? Vienna usually has free capacity to my knowledge. Maybe it makes sense to contact them?
Simon, what’s your opinion on that?
July 18, 2026 at 23:24
There is no confusion. They just issued a stupid reply.
July 11, 2026 at 04:56
Hi Simon, I am the main applicant and my husband(accompany) has vision loss-almost gone in his one eye. We will have a medical interview in a short time. Do you have any suggestions for us? Do you think this can create any negative issue during our interview at embassy?thanks for your advice
July 11, 2026 at 09:13
No impact other than if that vision loss created a problem for work, and thus made you a risk for public charge.
July 10, 2026 at 15:53
1
If the U.S. Department of State does not open registration for the Diversity Visa Lottery in 2027 and 2028, what is the solution in that case?
2
If a lawsuit is filed in federal court to challenge the Department of State’s failure to open registration, how long would it take for the court to force the Department to act?
3
From where comes your confidence and optimism that the Department of State will open registration for the Diversity Visa Lottery in 2027 and 2028?
July 10, 2026 at 16:16
3. Is all that is important.
It’s the law. Let’s wait and see.
July 10, 2026 at 16:27
If it’s the law then why has DV 26 been allowed to time out? The law doesn’t appear that strong or important.
Nearly the entirety of the DV 26 Program has been permanently paused.
July 10, 2026 at 18:00
“permanently”
?
July 10, 2026 at 14:28
Hi Simon, I was wondering if there’s a way to see how many interviews have been scheduled at the embassy in Naples – Italy for the month of August? Thank you for your job and for giving us hope.
July 10, 2026 at 16:15
No there is no way. We used to have that info, but the change made to the CEAC database means we cann’t get embassy interview information now.
July 10, 2026 at 05:21
Do you have hope for the second round from immpact?
July 10, 2026 at 10:47
Yes
July 10, 2026 at 01:33
Hi Simon,
Thank you for creating this forum and sharing your knowledge with visa applicants.
My wife and I recently attended our H-1B and H-4 visa interviews in China. Our cases were placed in administrative processing, and we were asked to submit the DS-5535 form. We also learned that our cases involve an “IACT Red” issue.
While searching online for information about IACT Red, I found a response you posted in 2019 to Mohamed Mashaal regarding a similar situation. It seemed that you might have some familiarity with this type of clearance.
Do you have any insight into what IACT Red means, what factors may trigger it, and how long it typically takes for an applicant to receive clearance based on your experience?
Thank you again for maintaining this forum and sharing your knowledge. I also donated $20 as a small gesture of appreciation and to treat you to a meal.
Best regards,
Zejia
July 10, 2026 at 11:03
In reality the agencies such as the Inter Agency Counter Terrorism do not publish much information about their sources, methods or procedures. We know that Red means “red light”, meaning “something” came up in a screening, but that could be quite abstract (like a name hit to someone you know who in turn has a name hit to someone on a “list”). There is nothing you can do except wait until they have resolved their investigation, and I have no way to say what a “normal” timeline would be for that.
You may find this link informative, although it’s an area that is constantly evolving and is not public, so it’s hard to be precise…
https://britsimonsays.com/administrative-processing-fbi-name-checks/
July 11, 2026 at 00:56
Hi Simon,
Thank you for sharing this helpful link. According to a note from the visa officer, my case is subject to a “Donkey SAO: IACT Red” review. This is quite confusing to me because, based on what I have read, IACT-related reviews appear to be more commonly reported in Middle East countries and seem relatively unusual for Chinese applicants. Chinese nationals appear to encounter Mantis SAOs more frequently.
I also had an unusual experience while working in the United States. In 2024, an FBI agent contacted me and asked to meet, although I was never told the reason. I retained an attorney, and on the morning of the scheduled meeting, the agent canceled it and stated that there was no need to reschedule. I do not know whether this prior contact is related to my current IACT Red review.
Based on your experience, do you have any insight into what may trigger an IACT Red designation, whether the FBI contact could be connected, and whether there are any practical steps an applicant can take to help resolve or clarify the issue?
I want to emphasize that I have no criminal record, immigration violations, or history of unlawful or suspicious conduct. I am a Ph.D.-trained engineer who has worked lawfully in the United States and has been trying to build a stable life and pursue the American dream.
Thank you again for sharing your knowledge and experience.
July 11, 2026 at 08:55
Yes the FBI contact, and whatever was behind that, is almost certainly the reason. But knowing that doesn’t help you. You can’t speed up their security checks as far as I know.
July 12, 2026 at 01:47
Thank you for your reply, Simon. I understand the situation much better now. I plan to contact the FBI agent again to see whether she may be willing to help clarify or resolve the issue.
It is incredibly frustrating when I have done nothing wrong and are simply trying to live a normal life like everyone else, yet federal agents approach me and express an interest in me. An encounter like this can have a significant impact on my life and on future visa applications. The feeling that trouble has suddenly found me, without any explanation as to why, is truly upsetting and unsettling.
July 12, 2026 at 14:44
Contacting the FBI agent won’t shorten the background checks. Really, there is nothing you can do.
July 12, 2026 at 17:07
Thanks, Simon. Based on your past experience and the experiences of past applicants, will the red issue resolve itself and be solved within a few months, or will it persist indefinitely and remain unresolved forever?
July 12, 2026 at 17:33
I have no idea.
July 9, 2026 at 17:22
Hello simon, thanks for all the work you are doing for us through your videos and here on your website.
I’m a 26 dv winner and now current with EU27XXX. But so far, i didnt receive my 2nl and i didn’t see any candidate publication about been schedule in Paris for august. Where i can Check for the number of interview scheduled in Paris ? Looks like i will get my 2nl for september …
July 9, 2026 at 18:06
There is no way to check the 2NLs for a particular embassy since they changed CEAC data. Our only info would be if someone reported it in the tracker.
Fingers crossed for September interview.
July 12, 2026 at 03:42
Hello again, thanks for you answering that but i’m loosing Hope. I Just find out a friend of mine is a dv26 winner too with EU22XXX so he was current in june but didn’t receive a 2nl (we Check together his ceac visa status and he is « at nvc »). So paris is blocked or that can be his application failling ?
July 12, 2026 at 14:45
The problem is that Paris restricted their DV case capacity, so they have built up a backlog – as have some other embassies.
July 9, 2026 at 17:07
Hi Dear Mr. Simon,
Curtis Morrison published a message a few hours ago on X as below. Have you heard anything about this matter so far?
I am also DV 2026 selectee and my case number became current on August bulletin and I`m Turkish citizen. Currently in USA with F2 visa status and planning to do AOS. Will submit I-485 documents in early August.
Curtis Morrison`s post on X;
“”AUSA just emailed me an approval notice for one of our Diversity Visa 2026 clients’ green card applications. But it was password-protected.
She followed up in the next email to say the password was “mandamus.”😆””
Thank you for your tremendous effort and much appreciated!!
July 9, 2026 at 17:20
I know of a number of AOS cases that have been approved. All of them so far have been plaintiffs with either Jesse Bless or Curtis. The Dorcas case vacated the policies that were stopping AOS approvals, and for some unknown reason the government also agreed to not apply the DV pause (policy memo 0193). I have been discussing that for a couple of weeks on my videos.
So – if you are a plaintiff on one of the cases you can hope for that same treatment. However, you are wasting valuable time by not using the early filing policy. You could have submitted your package weeks ago. Get on with it!
July 9, 2026 at 17:27
I asked to my attorney if we can submit our documents to USCIS earlier than August (as our case number became current on August bulletin, EU28200). He said we cannot submit them until August.
For this reason, I am not a plaintiff yet. Was planning to either join current lawsuits, or do it individual case after I submit the documents.
Could you please clarify if we can submit early? Also, still waiting DOS to send us AOS payment receipt.
Thank you
July 9, 2026 at 18:09
Your inexperienced lawyer is costing you time.
At this time of year that extra time (early filing policy) is important. As for clarifying, I wouldn’t have mentioned it if it were not possible!
You also screwed up by not being on one of the group lawsuits. It will be far more expensive to file a lawsuit for your single case.
July 9, 2026 at 18:06
I asked to my attorney if we can submit my documents in advance instead of waiting until August, but I’ve been told that we have to wait until August as my case number became current in August bulletin (EU28200, and still waiting DOS to send us AOS payment receipt physically).
For this reason, I was planning to either join existing lawsuits, or go with the individual lawsuit after I send documents and schedule for biometrics.
Could you please clarify if I can send all my documents to USCIS before August, like nowadays?
Thanks a million!
July 9, 2026 at 15:45
Hi ,
My DV interview is scheduled for August at the U.S. Embassy in Dublin. I’ve heard that another applicant with a similar date was invited to a pre-interview “document review” on July 31st, but I haven’t received any such invitation. Others who interviewed in Dublin this year told me they didn’t have a separate review and went straight to their main interview.
Should I contact the embassy to ask if I’m required to have a document review, or should I just show up on my scheduled date? Thank you.
July 9, 2026 at 16:57
I don’t have a strong opinion either way – do what you think is best.
July 9, 2026 at 12:19
sorry, meant invaluable not unvaluable…my bad!
July 9, 2026 at 12:18
Hi Simon
Thanks for you unvaluable guidance.
I would like to confirm with you which Affidavit of Support form should I use (I-134 or 864) as a DV selectee with CN#2026AF568xx and with interview at Kigali (Rwanda) Embassy on August 24.
Thanks.
July 9, 2026 at 16:57
Only the I-134 can be used in DV cases.
July 9, 2026 at 11:43
Hey Mr. Simon,
It’s feels like sitting on ticking time bomb, why the first lawsuit verdict is not yet out and what is gonna happen to our 2nd lawsuit with REL where I have participated
July 9, 2026 at 16:58
Patience.
July 9, 2026 at 17:33
Unfortunately, patience has been the answer since December 2025.
July 9, 2026 at 18:09
Yup. No other choice….
July 9, 2026 at 19:24
Yes, the gov outsmarted everyone and managed to run out the entire program – very clever.
July 9, 2026 at 05:38
If I hire a translator for the documents that require English translation, and they complete the translations and send me the PDF files, can I print these out and take them to my consulate appointment? Or do I need to obtain the original, wet-signed hard copy of the translation from the translator to bring with me?
July 9, 2026 at 07:56
The translations need to be signed by the translator, but if they have done that and sent them to you, that will be acceptable.
July 9, 2026 at 15:46
Thank you
July 8, 2026 at 22:01
Hello simon i was a dv 2020 winner cn 48k and it was paused by trump because of covid 19 and im also a dv2026 winner cn 32k ill let you imagine the frustration! Please simon do i still have any hope to get a visa appointment?thank you
July 9, 2026 at 00:12
Oh wow. Frustrating! You might have a chance…
July 8, 2026 at 18:53
Hi BritSimon,
I am a uk dv winner and became current. I was given an appointment for interview but I missed it due to no medical appts. I’m scheduling another one but in two minds. It’s a lot of upfront cost for the medical to find out that it’ll be on hold. I’m not part of any lawsuits. Do you think it’s still a gamble to proceed?
July 9, 2026 at 00:11
It’s still a gamble…
July 8, 2026 at 05:38
Greetings from Turkey!
Curtis posted today in his telegram channel saying that gov is getting closer to announcing DV2027. He posted government’s update on passport and 1$. I remember that coming up a time ago already in the federal registrar.
Would you be so kind to have a look at Curtis’ link to Gov page and let us know if it just Curtis learning recently about something in the past or a genuinely very recent action from Gov?
All the best,
Joe from Switzerland
Link to Curtis’ message:
https://t.me/redeaglelaw/1986
Link to the the gov’s update:
https://www.reginfo.gov/public/do/DownloadDocument?objectID=170604801
July 8, 2026 at 08:38
It’s not really new news. They just confirmed the final version of the form after an earlier mistake. I took that latest version a few days ago and built a practice version of the latest form so that people could experience the entry process and work out any questions in advance. I plan to publish a video using the practice form in the next few days.
https://britsimonsays.com/dv-lottery-practice-form.html
July 8, 2026 at 14:20
Just a suggestion, but I think it would INCREDIBLY helpful and more impactful if you could make a separate, yet visible section on your website with these “extra” resources.
I didn’t know you had this practice website. You also have “mail forwarding” service that I am sure very few people are aware of. DV photo tool is more popular, but you have spoken only on streams, about it, I believe.
I think I am missing perhaps few other resources. I think you will see much higher traffic if you will have a link to those extras on your main website.
As always, thank you for your disinterest service and consistency in helping those you don’t know.
July 8, 2026 at 15:08
Yeah, I haven’t launched the mail forwarding service with a fanfare – really because we are paused. Then I have the DV tracker, lawsuit tracker and the practice form. You are correct, I do need to include them in navigation in the blog page, it’s just that WordPress is a PITA. I haven’t been too worried as we are in a holding pattern, but I’ll get on it!
Forwarding Service – http://britsimonsays.com/forwarding.html
DV Case tracker – https://britsimonsays.com/DVtracker/index.html
Lawsuit Tracker – https://britsimonsays.com/lawsuit-tracker.html
Practice your DV 2027 entry here – https://britsimonsays.com/dv-lottery-practice-form.html
July 8, 2026 at 15:54
Hi Simon, I feel like this is a silly question but on the mock form where it says mailing address, who’s address would I put in? Mine or my person in the US? Just would like some clarity however I’m sure you’ll have a video about it soon. I hope you and your family are well 🙂
July 8, 2026 at 16:25
“Silly” questions is exactly why I created the form. So we can have those answers clear before the real thing.
The address will generally be your own address – it’s where you live right now (on the day of entry). It “might be “care of” someone else in some circumstances, but it is NOT the US address you expect to move to – that comes later.
July 8, 2026 at 01:20
Hi Simon,
CN 2026AS9k, still at KCC.
My assigned post in the middle east isn’t processing immigrant visas, I’m considering transferring to one of the following posts: Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia or Philippines. which one do you recommend moving to? and, would KCC accept the transfer given the fact my post isn’t processing DV/IV?
July 8, 2026 at 08:28
Up to now, KCC has not accepted many requests for transfer unless someone can prove residency in the new country. THey are especially stubborn when the case is already in stage 4, meaning processed, current and assigned to an existing embassy.
So – you can try to get them to move, but they might not agree.
July 7, 2026 at 13:45
Hi Simon,
My number has come up so I am just trying to get myself organised incase am called up for an interview soon.
I lived in then US for three years studying. Do I need to get a polive report from the US or does it not apply as they will be doing those checks anyway?
Thanks,
Kate
July 7, 2026 at 14:01
The instructions specifically call out that police certs are not needed for the USA.
July 6, 2026 at 16:50
Hello uncle simon
Can you talk with the impacts team about 212f cases
I just need them to ask that the visas be printed (not fight travel ban)
They said they would do it before but in court docs they did not mention the entire thing
I am in impact round 2 and my plan to fight the ban after visa print to gain time afte oct 1
July 6, 2026 at 20:47
As you are a plaintiff it would be more impactful from you.
July 7, 2026 at 15:32
They sorta brushed me off
July 7, 2026 at 17:30
I’m not surprised. It is part of their round 1 lawsuit, but I never saw that as their main goal. It’s a complex issue because just getting visas issued doesn’t deal with the renewals that need to be possible, which could go on for years while Trump is in office. That is a tall ask.
July 6, 2026 at 16:04
Hi Simon,
Appreciate the work you do.
Case number 2026AS10XXX.
Questions:
1. When I login to CEAC under IV Application column it says “Completed” (when I hover the mouse pointer the bubble says ” The IV Application (Form DS-260) has been submitted for this applicant. It will be reviewed when you have submitted all supporting documents”). Is there anything more for me to do in terms of submission of the application? Family of 4. All show the same status.
2. We have selected Abu Dhabi, UAE as interview location. Are interviews being held in Abu Dhabi?
3. If not, do you recommend we should request to change location to Mumbai (or any other location in), India which is the country of nationality of all applicants? In CEAC on the top left it says – “Your Case is Currently at : KCC” – if that is relevant.
Thank you for the help. Wishing you the best. Regards
July 6, 2026 at 16:15
1. Nothing more to do.
2. I don’t know.
3. The CEAC location shows you are not scheduled. BUT because you are current, it is very hard to get KCC to reassign your case to another embassy. So – there is not much you can do except hope.
July 6, 2026 at 15:23
Hi Simon,
What’s the difference between PI vs TRO? It seems like Immpact are deciding which one to pursue.
Do both provide temporary relief to plaintiffs & if yes how long would a reasonable PI or TRO on this case last?
I’m trying to understand if I contact the embassy right away if a PI or TRO is given, or if I wait for the embassy to contact me.
Thanks!
July 6, 2026 at 16:14
A TRO can be immediate and is an argument that has to be so strong that the harm being caused is immediate and serious. The TRO can be granted even without the defendant giving their side. It is a high bar to meet.
A PI is a slightly lower bar because both sides get to state their case. So “urgency” is the difference.
The embassy only knows about you if you are scheduled. If you are scheduled, then you just plan to attend that, and be ready to provide all required documents.
July 6, 2026 at 16:23
Thanks Simon!
I’ve already done my medical and interview, just placed on 221g due to DV pause. If we get PI or TRO, do I contact embassy to get my visa printed or would I wait for them to contact me?
July 6, 2026 at 20:48
Either way. There is no normal in this. Do what you can.
July 6, 2026 at 14:11
Hi Simon,
I am a DV-2026 selectee from Ukraine. My case number is 2026EU27500.
Are there any group lawsuits that I can still join, or are any new ones being planned?
Thank you very much!
July 6, 2026 at 16:09
I don’t think there will be any more group lawsuits. The two lawfirms have just filed their round 2 lawsuits, and the timelines were tight even for those.
July 6, 2026 at 13:10
Trump interfered in FIFA law and called the FIFA president to remove a red card for an American player so he could play against Belgium. And you, and lawyer Morrison, think that the U.S. lottery in 2027 and 2028 will open just because you filed appeals against the administration’s decision — it’s laughable. I told you, Trump is a man who does not recognize the law at all. In his mind, there is no such thing as law; he breaks it and even brags about it. Even if the U.S. courts rule in favor of immigrants, Trump will appeal the decision and the game continues, because his goal is to buy time. And the U.S. lottery is tied to time. That’s why the lottery will not open until after he leaves on January 20, 2029. You will see that my words are true.
July 6, 2026 at 13:58
LOL. OK.
July 6, 2026 at 05:10
Hi Simon,
I’ve lived in Canada for 10 months as part of my BSc student exchange. It is reflected in my DS-260 (September 2014-June 2015). Based on this information, I do not need a police certificate from Canada, right?
Thank you.
July 6, 2026 at 09:02
Unless arrested there. However, sometimes the COs ask for the police cert when the period is near the limit. So – if it were me, I would get one.
July 5, 2026 at 13:14
Hi Simon,
When will the judge rule on behalf of the plaintiffs from the first groups of Immpact/Red Eagle groups? It’s been months since the lawsuit was filed, but we haven’t received any updates. The 60 days have passed. When do you think we’ll hear from the judge?
July 5, 2026 at 22:41
I don’t know. There is no timeline that is required for the Judge to give a decision.
July 6, 2026 at 12:10
Ok, but this is important for the plaintiffs. The sooner the response arrives, the sooner the visas can be printed.
July 6, 2026 at 12:31
LOL – yes. And?