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To ask me questions you can obviously post on any blog post.
PLEASE make sure you read the FAQ (linked at the menu at the top of this page), as most questions are already answered there.
Please note I periodically have to archive posts from this page to attempt to keep the performance acceptable. That means comments over about 3 months old could be deleted at any time.
September 1, 2017 at 17:55
WTF !!! WOWOWOWW
Brits I got an email today from [email protected]
“Additional names have been added for DV-2018 selection for EU region.
Please use your unique confirmation number, last/family name, and year of birth to check your status on Entrant Status Check at http://www.dvlottery.state.gov/ESC.”
IT’S SCAM EMAIL ???
September 1, 2017 at 18:08
It’s very similar to the notification last year – the only difference being that EU is specified. Go check the site – and come back and let me know your case number (hiding last three digits like 2018EU42XXX)
September 1, 2017 at 18:16
Please come back before celebrating too much. The case number will be critical.
September 5, 2017 at 17:35
is there a follow up?
September 1, 2017 at 18:49
Hello Brit, I got a doubt, When I applied in the first entry of the DV 2018, I don’t know if I selected in the studies that my degree was Master’s degree or some course postgraduate, But when I Filled out the DS 260 form I only selected that I got an bachelor degree, the reason is that I expected to finish my master’s thesis but at the end I couldn’t for differents problems, so this is could be a reason for a visa denied?
September 1, 2017 at 19:24
No
September 1, 2017 at 19:28
Good afternoon. I would like to know what type of document I need to prove the work experience, a letter from the company, a contract? Thank you in advance
September 1, 2017 at 19:35
Every case will vary. HR documentation is important, but will need to demonstrate a period of employment, not just current position. Depending on the role you might also want to document the work responsibilities that align with a suitable O*net role.
By the way – qualifying by education is easier, and less risky.
September 2, 2017 at 01:11
Thank you
September 1, 2017 at 20:25
Hello Brit,
Any info regarding exhaustment of Dv visa 017.
And approximately how many visas has been issued till date .
Do the final interview for Dv 017 goes till the end of Sept
Thanks
September 1, 2017 at 21:00
The global quota of visas will not be exhausted in DV2017.
September 1, 2017 at 20:39
hi i was told to reschedule an apointment from the embassy they gave me a link and when every i enter its closed when does it open i live in kenya
September 1, 2017 at 20:59
I don’t know how the embassy operate that booking system. Contact them.
September 1, 2017 at 22:36
ok thanks alot
September 1, 2017 at 21:57
Hi Simon,
I’ve had a look at the site and apologies if I’ve missed this question/answer elsewhere. We’re based in Australia with a case number in the 600’s. From the graph of the last 2 years we’re guestimating that our interviews will be around Dec or Jan at this stage.
1. We need to get both Aust. Federal Police checks and UK Police checks. Is it okay to get these in Sept/Oct – I wasn’t sure if there was any linkage between the expiry date and the interview i.e. must have more than 6mths left on it sort of thing.
2. With the qualification – what do we do if the work doesn’t really seem to match the job. My husband is the selectee and is a Roadworks Inspector – so works for the state government, has qualifications etc to do the job but we can’t find what role would be similar in the US on the o-net site.
3. I am not able to get an official birth certificate so will an affidavit be enough? I have one from the hospital but nothing government issued.
Thanks heaps
September 1, 2017 at 22:27
1. Yes it would be OK – but I’m not sure why you are rushing.
2. Education is a safer way to qualify. This role is closest to a Roadworks inspector – and does NOT meet the requirement. https://www.onetonline.org/link/summary/47-4011.00
So – if your husband does not meet the education standard you will have to align the job description with a more senior position – perhaps this: https://www.onetonline.org/link/summary/11-9021.00
3. As you are not the selectee, that might be acceptable – depending on procedures in your birth country. Check the reciprocity page for your country to see what it says.
September 2, 2017 at 01:56
Great thanks so much!
1. I’m more just concerned if we apply closer to Christmas (once we know when the interview is) – if offices close down etc.
2. He meets the education standard is well so we’ll probably go that route.
3. Papua New Guinea doesn’t have an option for a non-citizen to get a birth cert. I have an email from the govt. agency stating that so my thoughts would be to use the hospital birth cert, email from the govt. and get an affidavit from my parents re place of birth and then I should be covered. I’m an Australian citizen and they accepted the hospital birth cert so I’m hopeful.
Thanks heaps.
September 2, 2017 at 03:59
1. No need to rush.
2. Good
3. Try this:
Birth Certificates
Available from the Registrar General’s Office, P.O. Box 470, Waigani, N.C.D. 131, Papua New Guinea; Phone:(675) 327-1732; Fax: (675) 327-1523. Most foreign nationals and residents of towns register births with this office. Births in rural areas are frequently not registered. A fee may be charged for this service.
September 1, 2017 at 23:09
hi i live in kenya my mom is in usa and i have done the first interview the medical .
the embassy told that i have to do a follow up interview they sended to the wrong email which i missed on august 1 they told to reshedule the appointment which i am finding difficult to do cause they said i have to monitor every day to now if i can book and its immigrant visa
September 2, 2017 at 07:56
Hi Simon, I have two questions about DV Lottery:
1) I have two names and I know that I have to write my Last/Family name, first name and middle name ( I’m italian). My situation is this: Bianchi(last name/ surname) Nicholas(first name) Giovanni. I suppose that Bianchi is my last/family/surname, Nicholas(first name) Giovanni (MIDDLE name). Is it correct? this is the exact sequence that I see in my identity card and other official documents.
2) Is it possible to apply without passport? I know that it is possible to obtain it later if I win.
Thank you so much for the answers.
Nick
September 2, 2017 at 13:51
1. Correct
2. Yes
September 2, 2017 at 10:49
hello BRIT….how do i check my 2nl…i mean whats the process?
September 2, 2017 at 13:48
Read the links below, and read the FAQ. YOu keep asking really simple questions – that are already answered if you take a few minutes to read my previous articles. So do that!
britsimonsays.com/DV2018-basic-questions
https://britsimonsays.com/dv-faq/
September 2, 2017 at 13:31
HiBrit!
I want to ask some questions.
I want to unlock my case and send unlock request to [email protected] and it responds me that “Recipient inbox full
Your message couldn’t be delivered to [email protected]. Their inbox is full, or it’s getting too much mail right now.” and
action :”failed”
can I resend that message or what can I do?
thank you!!
September 2, 2017 at 13:44
Send it to the correct email address…
[email protected]
September 2, 2017 at 13:56
okay!! thank you Brit for your quick response!! i got where there is a problem i said at the end .com thank you again
September 2, 2017 at 17:12
How many subjects must you pass in your Wassce results? I have only 5 passes only.which subjects are compulsory ?
September 2, 2017 at 19:08
Check your embassy website.
September 2, 2017 at 17:42
will we have able to register for DV 2019 or has the DV been cancelled by the trump administration. if the DV system is still on when will it open for registration ?
September 2, 2017 at 19:07
It will open in October.
September 2, 2017 at 18:03
Hi brit thanks for your good work .
i am a afdv2018 winner before i go to the adress i filed in ds260 i want to visit a some friends in a diffrent state would that be a problem in the airport . i want to spend some time with my friend before i go to my adress
Thanks
September 2, 2017 at 19:07
No problem.
September 2, 2017 at 18:38
Helo brit i have a question how did the CO knows the photos(evidence of our r/ship) are taken before three or four yrs ago
September 2, 2017 at 19:06
You have to provide other proof too.
September 2, 2017 at 19:44
10 q for u’r ansewr but Other proof like what b/we have so many photos since 4 yrs but the photos doesnt have day on them
September 2, 2017 at 20:09
Other documentation. Emails, phone texts, joint travel receipts. Use your imagination.
September 2, 2017 at 21:00
Hi Brit
I requested for my and my wife,s application unlocked to add our new born. The KCC however only unlocked my wife,s application. Nevertheless i created an applications or my new born and uploaded the birth certificate which is in Arabic language. Now it say it’s under review. Is it ok. Since it is not in English
September 2, 2017 at 21:06
You need to unlock and update your form also. As for whether they accept the birth cert – wait and see – then let me know.
September 2, 2017 at 21:43
They accepted the birth certificate… the status changed from “review” to “start now”. I have emailed them to unlock my form now… since it happed in a matter of a few minutes I think it’s just an automatic system check. Maybe the space and type of file.
also catching up with the no surname in my passport story and that NLN( no last name) aapears on my e-dv form since I selected “no last name available” while filling my form and after reading your article – https://britsimonsays.com/dv2015-simple-mistake-costs-green-card/ – I will just enter “NLN” in my surname.
Does this make sense?
September 2, 2017 at 22:53
Hi Brit,
I think someone already asked it, but I can not find your answer among your blog.
(My interview is scheduling for next October. – My case is currently in Paris)
Tonight, I’ve connected to https://ceac.state.gov/ and I have now 2 applications registered. For the first one, the statue is “completed”, for the other one the statue is “start now”. This last one is new. Do I just have to ignore it ?
Thanks a lot for your help
Jo
September 2, 2017 at 23:08
Yes ignore it.
September 2, 2017 at 23:37
Dear Sir
My is name Nyah from Cameroon. I just submitted form DS 260 for my case. Do I need to scan and sent any documents to the kcc?
September 3, 2017 at 00:00
No – you take everything to the interview.
September 3, 2017 at 02:51
Hello Brit, i am going to start a diploma and degree course from October ?if i need to update it on ds 260 form? or is it not need?
September 3, 2017 at 05:41
No need.
September 3, 2017 at 04:25
Helo brit if i unlock and add my husband @ september 14 am i too late to do that ma cnAF18000? thank u
September 3, 2017 at 05:40
THat is OK.
September 3, 2017 at 07:45
Hi Brit
My father passed away last Friday 25th August, do I have to unlock my DS260 to effect that change
Thank you
September 3, 2017 at 13:21
No
September 3, 2017 at 07:54
Hi, BritSimon,
Thank you very much for providing such a helpful area to share experiences on DV procedures. I have been checking your website if someone had the same situation that I am going to ask about but I could not find so far.
I am currently studying Master’s in US with a scholarship from my home country and holding a J1 Visa with “2 year rule applies” statement on it. My case number is 2018EU00017XXX. I decided to conduct my further processing with Adjustment of Status since I need to be here till June 2018. I also had an appointment from USCIS Office to ask some questions in order not to make something wrong. In short words, they told me that I could do my Adjustment of Status application and take the interview when my case number drops below the number announced in the monthly bulletin even if I took the interview without getting a waiver from “2 year rule applies” statement. But they warned me that interview committee would give me extra 90 days to submit the necessary waiver document from related governmental agencies in case of succeeding in the interview. Now, I have not submitted DS-260 yet and there is a question in that form as follows “Are you a former exchange visitor (J) who has not yet fulfilled the two-year foreign residence requirement?”. I am inclined to answer “yes” to this question but I am confused because it asks me if I am a “former” exchange visitor.
My questions
1) Would you suggest me to answer “yes” to this question?
2) By considering my case number and the time that might pass between I apply and get the waiver from the (J1) 2 year rule (irregardless of my home country government answer time), when should I attempt to start waiver procedures?(This date is critical for me because, I will no longer be eligible to receive my scholarship once I start waiver procedures with my home country even though it is not sure that I will pass the interview)
3) Could you please let me know what you know more on this subject in case I miss any other critical points?
Thank you very much for consideration.
September 3, 2017 at 13:20
1. Yes
2. You need to decide the timing for yourself. I don’t know much about J1 waivers. You can ask “Sm1sMom” on this thread – http://forums.immigration.com/threads/dv-2018-aos-only.336256/
September 3, 2017 at 09:06
Hi Brit,
I’m a SA region DV2018 selectee 9xx.
I’m a structural engineer who took some time off to do (another) masters degree, this time in mechanical engineering in the US on a student visa (I felt I needed to update my skills to include current market demands).
I applied to the DV lottery as a Full time student during my first year of my current masters last year 2016 and got selected this year 2017.
My question is: Although I have 10+ years of work experience as a Civil Structural engineer, would I qualify (for the purpose of the interview) under my vast work experience or my past/current education?
Thanks for all your help. God bless you and your family’
September 3, 2017 at 13:16
Qualification with education is easiest. So – if you meet the requirements with education, they won’t need proof of work experience.
September 4, 2017 at 20:21
Thanks brit. My other question: for persons who have been selected (like myself) and are awaiting 2NL, do you recommend they apply for the DV2019 lottery? Or will this impact their current selectee status?
September 4, 2017 at 22:33
No problem to apply for DV2019.
September 3, 2017 at 10:26
can you what your notices about November bulletin dv 2018
September 3, 2017 at 13:12
I don’t have anything for the next VB.
September 3, 2017 at 10:36
Hello Brit,
I’m a DV LOTTERY 2018 Winner
Africa/ Algeria
Case number: 39000
I got a question about the 2NL, my biggest interest subject in 2NL, so:
Do the KCC send the 2NL once in each months?
Like For october they sent it in 14 August, so do we have to wait till 14 september to See the 2NL of november?
Or the second 2NL has No fixed dates?
In visa bulletins For october they say 8500 will have interview in october, but till Now only under 2000 got the interview dates, how about the others?
September 3, 2017 at 13:12
2NLs are sent in a batch. Last month was much earlier than usual – expect next month to be later.
September 3, 2017 at 11:21
hi Brit,
on DS260 question >> Can you provide immunisation records in accordance with US law?
has been answered yes>>>>
how important it is, to prove and show those immunisation records on a Interview??
having difficulty getting those records…
can you give a hint where and how to get those records?
many thanks in advance.
September 3, 2017 at 13:04
YOur answer was incorrect – but it doesn’t matter. You’ll have missing vaccinations at the medical.
September 3, 2017 at 13:37
hi Brit,
i was doubting my answer for the ( can you provide Immunisation records according to US law?) which was yes>>>>? on DS260
do you think i should unlock case and amend this question???
your reply and advice would be greatly appreciated.
September 3, 2017 at 14:00
No need – it doesn’t matter either way.
September 3, 2017 at 14:13
thank you Simon,
September 3, 2017 at 15:11
Hi Britsimon
thanks once more for the assistance u give to fellows like myself.
i have been scheduled for interview already but have a worry about my address.
Is it still possible for me to change it.
Also about how much will the medicals and interview cost me
September 3, 2017 at 15:15
If you are scheduled you cannot now change details.
The interview fee is $330 per person, the medical cost varies.
September 3, 2017 at 16:18
Hi Simon, am John I was late to submit my dv260, I submitted mid August, does it mean that my case is done, will I get visa interview scheduled?
September 3, 2017 at 16:36
Yes – you will get an interview when your DS260 is processed AND your case number is current.
September 3, 2017 at 17:23
Hi Britsimon
Please can you clarify the following for me:
1. with activation trip, when i leave usa i can leave for 12 months, when does this 12 months start counting? is it from the date we first arrived in usa or from the date we depart usa
2. if i want to leave usa for 2 years after the activation trip, apparently i have to apply for re-entry visa, how long does this application takes i.e from application to being given permission to leave for 2 years.
3. what happens if i dont have a sponsor in usa and i cant show money during the interview?
4. my case number is 2018AF386*6 do i have a chance to have an interview?
September 4, 2017 at 14:23
1. Departure.
2. It takes a few weeks – and must be done while you are in the USA.
3. That varies by embassy/case. https://britsimonsays.com/all-about-public-charge-affidavit-of-support-i-134/
4. Yes – patience
September 3, 2017 at 19:53
Hello again Simon,
I tried to find a question like mine but I didn’t see any, so my apologize if you ever answer a question like this…
After I filled my DS-260, I travelled to USA a couple of times for vacations.
Shall I unlock my case and refill my application?
Thank you so much again.
Ana
September 4, 2017 at 14:20
it is not compulsory.
September 3, 2017 at 22:33
Hi Brit. I got my bachelors degree from U.S and thereafter worked for some time. My question do i need to provide a police certificate for U.S?
I have worked in Dubai for some time and the police report which they provide has a validy of 3 months only. I do not know when i would be called for an interview and requesting for a police report take about a month or so. If i requested for the report earlier and kept ready and it expires before the interview date would that be problem since i no longer live in Dubai ?
I will appreciate your assistance.
Thank you
Saquib
September 4, 2017 at 14:18
No police cert for the USA. You get around 6 to 7 weeks notice of the interview.
September 4, 2017 at 14:28
hi
I am living in Dubai too, and Got my police certificate in may, it says 3 month-validity also, but doesnt the US embassy account for one you for this certificate?? please let me know, Thanks
September 4, 2017 at 14:53
Particularly if your are living in the country, you should get the police cert shortly before the interview – usually applying as soon as the 2NLs are sent.
September 4, 2017 at 10:16
Hi Brit. Will the lottery open this October for people to apply or is it taking place every two years? Because I can’t find any information online for how to apply for this year October.
September 4, 2017 at 14:07
Yes it will open, but the announcement is normally in mid/late September.
September 4, 2017 at 11:00
When so u think the november visa bulleting will be released?
September 4, 2017 at 11:45
Probably this week looking at the trend….check Brits FAQ for more info.
September 4, 2017 at 14:07
In the next week or so.
September 4, 2017 at 11:44
Hi Simon.
How are U?
Hope you are not in Texas!
Thanks again for your service.
I have one question.
Still I can access the DS-260 online application form !
Actually It was unlocked,corrected and resubmitted on June.
Why is that i still can access the online form?
Is there any thing wrong?
Thanks!
Solomon.
September 4, 2017 at 14:04
You should be able to access it. But it should say “completed” and if so – it is “read only” – i.e. cannot be edited.
September 4, 2017 at 14:46
Hi Simon
I had had my first interview 30th May in Accra I’m from Guinea 224 then the officer put us on AP . Then on 28 July I received a call from the embassy so on the 31 July I went with three passports as I was asked. Then at 1pm we got in. Later on the call me on windows 7 then the officer gave me back my original documents and took the passports and told me that my visa was approved then gave me a blue paper shift that instructed me where and when I will receive the passports and told me to go to DHL office after three weeks for collection. When I check my status it shows ready until now and the last update is 09 August My questions are
1 What are we supposed to do as September is the last month?
2 After approval is it possible that you receive the passports without visas after September?
In case of immigration sanctions against Guinea is that going to affect my visa approval or issuance?
September 4, 2017 at 14:54
1. Wait.
2. Yes.
September 4, 2017 at 15:05
Hi britsimon
can you clarify the following please Sir:
1. with activation trip, i can go to usa and leave after a week without applying for anything as long as i will be going back within 12 months? this 12 months start counting from the date i arrive in usa or i depart?
2. if i want to leave usa for morethan 12 months after the activation trip then i must apply for re-entry permit? this application takes how long i.e from application to being granted the permit?
3. can i leave usa just after applying for re-entry permit or i must wait untill its been given to me?
4. how much is the permit?
Thanks for your help
September 4, 2017 at 15:09
1. Yes. Starts from departure.
2. Correct. It takes a few weeks.
3. You must wait to have the biometric appointment – usually 4 to 6 weeks.
4. https://www.uscis.gov/i-131
September 4, 2017 at 18:57
Hi Brit, the information that appears on the ds260 is transferred from the lottery visa application? So for example if my wife is the principal, should I appear on the ds260 automatically or I should add myself?
September 4, 2017 at 20:23
If you were married at the time of entry, you should be on the ds260.
September 4, 2017 at 20:30
Hello,
i wrote my university end date wrong. it is written another date in my diploma. i must unlock or it is not problem.
September 4, 2017 at 20:41
And my current address changed but same country same city i must unlock and change it or this is okay? And permanent address is related to with USA or my country.
September 4, 2017 at 22:33
You can change addresses if you want.
September 4, 2017 at 22:32
Not a problem.
September 5, 2017 at 07:54
Is there any dv 2019? If so, when is the registration?
September 5, 2017 at 13:18
October.
September 5, 2017 at 11:22
Hi Simon,
we’re from Iran and we had our interview in May 11th and our case went into AP status ever since.
since it’s 5th of Sep and the 2017’s year is about to end, what do you advice us to do?
i Emailed the embassy yet got no answers. do you think calling any specific place within US embassies might help us get answers about what is holding our case?
thanks in advance.
September 5, 2017 at 13:15
There is nothing you can do other than wait.
September 5, 2017 at 13:13
Hello legend. I am gathering all of my documents for the interview in Australia for DV2018. I have lived in Canada before – on and off for two years. I was never in the country for a consecutive 12 months but in total over a few years it was more than 12 months. Do you think I will require a Canadian Police Check? If so, I will not have it in time for the interview – do you happen to know if this will be an issue or will they accept it in the post directly from Canada shortly after?
Thanks again for your super effort with this sight, it has been a HUGE help to us during this very exciting but sometimes confusing process!
September 5, 2017 at 13:25
Appky for the police cert, just in case. If they ask for it – at least it will reduce the waiting time after interview.
September 5, 2017 at 13:32
Okay thanks. So, I am assume that means if you have outstanding documents at the time of your interview, you are not told to leave and come back. You simply have to send through missing requirements? Cheers 🙂
September 5, 2017 at 13:45
Normally – that is correct.
September 5, 2017 at 13:14
Hi Simon
I’m a 2017 winner. I already get the DV visa stamped in all my family passports (4persons). We’re travelling soon to U.S. The flight will start from Frankfort, Germany, to Minneapolis, Minnesota UAS, via Washington Dallas airport.
I understand that we should submit the yellow envelops given to us at the embassy to the immigration officer at the POE. The questions are: 1- Where we should submit the envelopes ? is it in Washington or in Minneapolis?
2- In Washington, we have only 2 hours connection time which could not be enough to process the entry I-1551 visas, and to catch the next plane to Minneapolis. Should I draw the officer attention so that we would not miss the flight?
3- can we keep the envelops to submit in Minneapolis?
Thanks
September 5, 2017 at 13:27
1. Washington
2. You should have allowed more time for the connection. You might miss it, and your lack of planning will not hurry the immigration system.
3. No
September 5, 2017 at 13:30
Hi Brit,
Just a small doubt in mind. I read all of your blogs and posts. I read that you considered AS7000 safe for Nepal. After the first numbers in the bulletin. Do you consider it safe? My case number is AS55**. Thanks for all your help. It provides a lot of information about DV lottery.
September 5, 2017 at 13:45
Nothing changed.
September 5, 2017 at 13:48
So you consider my case number safe too
September 5, 2017 at 14:22
hi
do you have any projection for the case numbers for nov interviews? thanks
September 5, 2017 at 14:40
No
September 5, 2017 at 15:40
Good day Brit,
There is really no other way to appreciate what you are doing this far than to say thank you.
My CN is Af30xxx, after filing my DS260 form, i realized that both my academic detail and work information were all requested. i have worked for up to 12 years with the government as an Admin Assistant but for the job i will like to do in the US i said Management since I also hold a dipoma in Logistics and Transport Management. 1) Does this job “Management” qualify me for my future occupation?
2) Reading your comments above, you said it is easier to qualify with education, is my option as a worker risky? or should i unlocked my ds260 to change to education?
3) When you unlock your ds260 form, will u be attributed a new confirmation number? and Finally how will you rate my CN AF30xxx.
Thank you
September 5, 2017 at 15:53
https://britsimonsays.com/ask-questions/comment-page-139/#comment-82621
September 5, 2017 at 15:56
Hi,Brit
I am from SA and my case number is 2018SA14XX and I have already introduced my request DS 260, and reviewing your blog and the historical, my appointment may be approximately jun19, there is the possibility of being called before that date, since my application already was introduced
Thank you
September 5, 2017 at 16:01
You cannot be called before your number is current.
September 5, 2017 at 16:07
Another question in my request is this question “Do you have documentation to establish that you have received vaccinations in accordance with U.S. law?”
I answered YES, and i checking now, I do not have my vaccination card, however I can get vaccinated again in my country before going to my medical appointment.
That you recommend me, I modify my DS 260 or I get a vaccine again to obtain a new vaccination card
Thx
September 5, 2017 at 16:15
The answer on the DS260 was wrong, but it doesn’t matter. At the medical, they will administer any missing vaccinations.
September 5, 2017 at 16:50
Hi Sir
The US visa restrictions against four countries in August will they apply on the lottery winners from those countries?
The citizens of Guinea who are in the 2017 program will they apply on them?
September 5, 2017 at 16:54
I don’t know.