Ask questions here
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.
June 12, 2020 at 15:40
I was filling my DS260 form and my current went off. I later start the process but the page can not open. What should I do to get acess?
June 12, 2020 at 21:08
Change browser perhaps?
June 12, 2020 at 15:43
If i have been selected while im a refugee in another country , can still proceed , i mean being a refugee doesnt affect the success of the visa ?
June 12, 2020 at 21:08
Correct
June 12, 2020 at 16:56
Ive submitted all my documents and awaiting processing. Do I have to unlock the DS-260 to change my current address – or is it acceptable to change at the interview? Not sure how important this change is to my application.
June 12, 2020 at 21:44
Either way is fine.
June 14, 2020 at 00:08
Hi Brit
If passport number is change what should we for it
I mean that I fill entry form with my pervious passs number but because of expriation I change it and I fill DS 260 form with my new pass number ??!
Does it have any problem?!
June 14, 2020 at 01:02
Provide old and new passports when sending documents and at the interview.
June 12, 2020 at 23:36
Hello Brit , if I win DV 2021 and I have a tourist visa for the United States, I can go there and only change my status. Im married I have two kids one of them doesnt have tourist visa cuz he wasnt born yet when they give us the tourist visa, My visa expires in 2026 and my case number is 2021sa29xx
June 13, 2020 at 00:24
You are taking a risk to enter the USA with a plan to adjust status. That can cause disqualification of your case.
June 12, 2020 at 17:47
Hi Brit, just simple question when filling ds260 it asks for surname so my application was like
QQQQQQQ, EEEEEEE RRRRR which is the surname to be filled!thanks in advance.
June 12, 2020 at 21:46
QQQQQQQ
June 13, 2020 at 06:09
to be honest BritSImon, i had a huge believe in you and started recommencing you around,,, i also just found out about the donation tab which i was going to action because to be honest money is not an issue for me and i thought you were up to a great cause, and i was wondering why are you doing it anyway! was it for money or probably you wanted to join the influencer’s party… nevertheless, checking the latest replies and mockery on some of the comments, also, i think my questions were deleted for whatever reason,,, i take it back. thanks
June 13, 2020 at 17:11
I’m not quite sure what this comment means – but I note that you replied to someone elses thread. Perhaps that is why you are losing your comments – NONE of them have been deleted – there are 5 to date.
As for mockery – do you refer to me mocking people? Sometimes yes – but that is always after someone has pushed my patience too far with laziness typically. I’m a human and I get fed up with people sometimes. I reserve that right, and if people don’t like my comments they are welcome to leave. That’s why I called the site BritSimonSays.com and not “DoYouApproveOfWhatBritSimonSays.com”. I don’t do this for approval or for money, I do it to help people, but I am not their servant, and my patience has limits. Anyone who wants to criticize me can first explain what activity they have spent thousands of hours on to help others, then perhaps I would listen to their criticism.
June 13, 2020 at 18:38
fair enough good answer, I see your point… and thank you for your answers so far… also expect a donation soon
June 13, 2020 at 19:03
No need to donate. If I help you and you get your GC, think about that then perhaps.
June 12, 2020 at 18:00
Hi, Thank you for all the info you give, I “won” the dv 2021 and now i’m watching all of your videos to understand the process but i found myself confused about the “submitting documents” part. Do I have to wait for a email in wich KCC tells me what document and how to submit it? or I have to do it following the guidelines on the state.gov website? In the first case, is that the famous 2NL email or is a different thing?? Thank you
June 12, 2020 at 21:48
https://britsimonsays.com/document-procedure-modification/
It’s not the 2NL
June 12, 2020 at 18:20
Dear Brit. First, thank you for all the help.
Can you help me clarify the bit on police certificates?
1. I currently live and work in a Central African nation. I have been here for almost 3 years now.
(I have received a police report from my current residency, which per the DV program is valid for one year since the document doesn’t indicate any expiration date.)
2. The last time I visited my home country in West Africa was in December last year. I obtained a police certificate before leaving early January, 2020. The certificate states that it is valid for 6 months.
3. I have not returned to my home country since leaving early January. Meaning, this certificate will expire this June.
****Police Certificates under travel.state.gov*****
”Important: Police certificates expire after one year, unless the certificate was issued from your country of previous residence and you have not returned there since the police certificate was issued. If at the time of your interview the following three items are all true, you must bring a new police certificate to your visa interview:
You are more than 16 years old;
The police certificate was obtained more than one year ago; and
You still live in the country that issued the certificate.”
4. Per the above information, the police certificate from my home country is valid. Despite the expiration date stated on it.
5. I lived in the UK for 15 months to undertake my masters’ degree between late 2015 to early 2017.
***With all these in mind, please help me understand if I am also supposed to get a police certificate from the UK? Per this above information, is it advisable to submit my home country police certificate which expires this June per the information stated on it, as against what the above points out? Or do you think I need to get another police report when I have not lived there since January 4 when I flew out?
In a nutshell, do I need to send my present police certificate ONLY when they request for me to submit documents?
A bit long. But thank you for tracking with me.
June 12, 2020 at 21:51
The instructions cover this well – please read that – you will be expected to submit more than just the current country police cert. YOu will submit it to KCC and show at the interview.
June 12, 2020 at 18:46
Hey Brit,
Trumps Immigration ban proclamation is to expire in 10 days and it says there that any extension or amendment decisions to be taken no later then 10 days before expiration. Does it mean the proclamation will expire?
June 12, 2020 at 21:52
No. Because that is NOT what it says.
June 13, 2020 at 15:38
Here what it is. Please advise.
Sec. 4. Termination. This proclamation shall expire 60 days from its effective date and may be continued as necessary. Whenever appropriate, but no later than 50 days from the effective date of this proclamation, the Secretary of Homeland Security shall, in consultation with the Secretary of State and the Secretary of Labor, recommend whether I should continue or modify this proclamation.
June 13, 2020 at 18:04
Again. The 50 days is for the RECOMMENDATION. Not the decision.
June 13, 2020 at 11:27
Sec. 4. Termination. This proclamation shall expire 60 days from its effective date and may be continued as necessary. Whenever appropriate, but no later than 50 days from the effective date of this proclamation, the Secretary of Homeland Security shall, in consultation with the Secretary of State and the Secretary of Labor, recommend whether I should continue or modify this proclamation.
Was wondering the same, found this one on the ban declaration itself. Sounds about right.
June 13, 2020 at 17:38
The 10 days is for the recommendation mentioned, not the ability to extend.
June 12, 2020 at 18:47
Thanks a lot Simon for your good analysis
iS there a possibility for the second draw for 2021 dvlottery ?
June 12, 2020 at 21:52
I don’t know.
June 12, 2020 at 18:56
Dear Simon We have DV greencards but with covid my daughter studying in another country can not return which means she could be out of the Family US more more than a year. She is 21 do you think they could deny her entry or take greencard away.
June 12, 2020 at 21:54
That is technically possible but unlikely. She can apply for an SB-1 if needed.
June 12, 2020 at 19:04
Hello
In my situation, my wife was pregnant when we were filling the forms. We’ve won we now have a child. How do we go about it?
June 12, 2020 at 21:54
Use the “add applicant” button on the DS260 page.
June 12, 2020 at 19:17
Hello Simon. A rumor is spreading among dv20 winners in Albania, that the ones who havent received doc confirmation should send them again immediately beacause kcc doesnt have them.
1) do you think this is true ?
2) i have asked every 10 days and still no conf from kcc. Is there anything we should do to get their attention ?
Thank you
June 12, 2020 at 21:55
1. I have been telling people to check or do that for months.
2. I don’t have a magic solution.
June 13, 2020 at 07:38
I have followed your advice and sent them again in april. Just wanted to ask if i should send for the third time now. Anyway thanks for answering
June 13, 2020 at 17:20
I would call if I were you.
June 12, 2020 at 19:25
Hi Simon, I am from Kosovo and I won the Green Card Lottery this year. I came in the US with J1 Visa in 2015 and then I applied for asylum. I worked 3 months in New Jersey and then I came to New York City and I applied for asylum after 2 months. New York’s law says that I am eligible to apply for asylum only if you apply for asylum during my first year in US, which I did. However, now, it’s been 5 years that I have been living in US and they still didn’t call me for the asylum interview. So this year, after five years I won the Green Card Lottery, but I am not sure what’s the next step to do since my asylum case is still pending. Thank you.
Kindly,
Adrian
June 12, 2020 at 21:57
I am not an expert on DV AOS cases. The link below is written by such an expert. Go there.
https://forums.immigration.com/threads/dv-2021-aos-only.342993/
June 12, 2020 at 19:57
Hi mr.Britsimon
I wanted to edit on my DS-260 form so I sent
an email to them to unlock it and they sent me this.
The Kentucky Consular Center (KCC) has received your email. This email address, [email protected] is for case-specific Diversity Visa inquires only. If you would like to check the status of your entry, please do so at http://www.dvlottery.state.gov/ESC. This website is the definitive means of determining whether or not you were selected for possible further processing. You must see a notice that is addressed to you by name as proof of selection to process further in the DV program.
For inquiries about specific cases, please ensure that you have included your case number, first and last name, and date of birth with your inquiry. If this information is not provided or is inaccurate, KCC will be unable to process your inquiry.
For other information and to view frequently asked questions, please visit the Department of State Website at http://www.travel.state.gov. Under the Visas section, select Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery Program and then select Instructions for the Diversity Visa lottery year you entered. The frequently asked questions can be found at the bottom of the instructions.
Thank you for contacting KCC.
June 12, 2020 at 20:15
Hello Sir!
I am really sorry for the disturbance.
My husband is the winner of 2020 eu37***
We got a lawyer for the documents. He has completed ds260 of my husband on 27.11.2020 and mine had forgotten to submit.
We noticed that only on the 8th of June and we finished it.
Also we sent the second part documents to kcc on 08.06.2020 because most offices were closed due to pandemy.
1-Are we too late and do we have any chances to get an interview?
2- Would we lose the chance only because of being late?
I would be grateful if you could answer.
Thank you in advance.
June 12, 2020 at 22:03
1. You might be too late, yes.
2. Yes
June 12, 2020 at 22:29
Sorry to interject here Simon
But may I provide further advice to yours and not sure if I am correct either btw
I felt sorry for this lady when I read her situation and I thought of this situation, but waited for your response to see if you would say what I was thinking
This is obviously a bad situation, but AT WORST to make good a bad situation, why cant the husband go and call the wife even though it may take 2 years to call her over ?
If it is a genuine accident, which it may be, it can still be made good if they (he) wanted to proceed and they genuinely were keen to follow up on the win?
Or have I got that wrong?
June 12, 2020 at 23:40
Right now DV2020 is in chaos because of the embassies being closed. They have now SUBMITTED the missing DS260/documents which means they have caused KCC to need to process all documents. There is no way back from that.
Now they may be OK, but they MIGHT be too late. Many DV2020 cases are going to have risk anyway – so I am setting their expectation that they could well lose their chance, not just because of their mistake and subsequent action but also because of the general chaos. If they get a chance, they will be pleasantly surprised and simply believe I did not know what I was talking about. To have them think that and be prepared for the worst is the kindest thing I can do.
June 13, 2020 at 00:36
Excellent answer
You are excellent and holistic of the overall assessment
June 12, 2020 at 21:21
Do you think Trump will extend immigration ban?please answer me
June 12, 2020 at 22:13
He and I don’t talk much.
June 13, 2020 at 18:46
So smart response !
June 12, 2020 at 21:28
How will it affect the AOS process if trump happens to extend the immigration ban? Will the person filing for AOS through DV lottery still be able to process his/her case?
June 12, 2020 at 22:13
Probably.
June 12, 2020 at 22:30
Hi Mr. Brit, my partner won the dv lottery but now realized that his entry photo has a head size slightly larger than 69% otherwise it fits all other requirements. Is this grounds for automatic or probable disqualification? Thank you!
June 12, 2020 at 23:41
No.
June 12, 2020 at 22:38
Hi Simon,
Although I’ve sent in my documents to KCC earlier, they haven’t processed them as yet and one of my police certificates I sent them is expiring this weekend.
1. Do I have to send them the new certificate or I will only need that during an interview at the embassy?
2. My spouse has had a name correction since the initial DV entry, but before submitting the DS260, onto which she had her updated name typed. Would I be required to send in her old passport cooy along with the new one, or the new one is enough?
3. Since I am a dual national, would the KCC require both passport copies or only my primary one which is the first listed on the DS260?
Regards
June 12, 2020 at 22:40
Just to add to the above, I had called in today to check the status of my application and asked the lady in which order were they processing the applications, to which she replied they are doing it in the order they receive. Just thought of sharing this with you.
June 12, 2020 at 23:44
Quite a different story than others have been told….
June 12, 2020 at 23:44
1. The certificates are ok for up to one year.
2. Take both to interview.
3. Same as 2.
June 13, 2020 at 00:13
Thank you.
1. The certificates are reaching their one year validity period this weekend, so in this case would they need me to send them the new ones? I got the new one just a few days ago
2. Just to clarify, the KCC would not need both of my partner’s passport copies sent to them as a document requirement?
3. Just to clarify, the KCC would not need both of my passport copies to be sent to them as a document requirement?
Cheers
June 13, 2020 at 00:32
1. Take new ones to the interview.
2 & 3. They might “prefer” that, and I would normally say yes, but right now the biggest risk you have is not being scheduled at all. So – only mess with documents if you HAVE NO CHOICE. That goes for question 1 as well. It’s a shame you left that this late – you could have replaced the police cert earlier with no risk.
June 12, 2020 at 22:44
Hello dear Simon,
My husband and I got our immigrant visa as Dv lottery 2020 (I am the derivate), the problem is it expires on July and I don’t know if the embassy will restart working. My questions are:
1. Can we flight from Tirana-Belgrade to New York, if Vienna and Franfurt have restrictions, as answered a few days before to a similar case when you suggested another way and not Schengen zone?
2.. As mentioned on your FAQ, if we ask for the extension of our visa, due to Covid19, will it be approved 100% or it depends by the embassy (e.g: Us Embassy in Sidney will approve but not US Embassy in Tirana)?
3. Is there a time we have to wait before asking to extend the visa and have it for a second time? ( For example: We won’t be called until they are done with all the DV immigrant visa)?
4. Do we have to submit all the documents one more time to KCC (knowing about the fees of the interview and the examination to the doctor must be redone)?
5. Is there any risk that, all those who couldn’t get into the USA during the validation of their visas, and all those who weren’t called for an interview will be disqualified?
Thank you very much for your work! We are having such a hard and stressful time and every answer you give, is a hope for us!
June 13, 2020 at 00:02
1. Please check that possibility yourself.
2. It depends on the embassy being open, the ban not being extended, the embassy understanding the rules, and that happening before September 30th. So no, NOT 100%.
3. I don’t know – this is not something that has happened in the past.
4. They might need something updated – I cannot be certain as it depends on your specific documents.
5. There are risks, yes – but you use the word “all” – I cannot say “all” – we have to wait and see.
June 16, 2020 at 18:21
Hi, please let us know what you will decide to do. I already have immigration visa (issued in FEB) but I also live in Schengen area and also was thinking about spending this 14 days quarantine in Serbia and then fly from Belgrade to NYC.
June 12, 2020 at 22:52
Brit ,My brother have won the dv visa program 2021 and unfortunately someone did it for him and now the person is charging him 7000 $ for the processing,he have hide the case number so how can i retrieve the case number whiles the guy uses his email, or can i contact the U.S embassy to get me the case number.
June 13, 2020 at 00:03
He was unwise to give someone that power over him. Neither the embassy or KCC can help. He could try and retrieve the details from the ESC page if he uses the forgot number link.
June 12, 2020 at 23:55
Does the kcc search for informations about the candidates in other countries or just in their mother land, if they lived for couple months in other country?
June 13, 2020 at 00:33
Their background check methods are not discussed.
June 13, 2020 at 00:22
hi sir .
my
My passport data does not contain the first name, middle name and last name fields
just Full name:islam azziz ahmed jac
and My passport pagedown words:
P>Egyjac<<islam<azziz< ahmed
Entery dv data :
:
last name :islam azziz ahmed jac
middle name :no middle name
first name : no first name
——————–
ds260 entry :as my passport date
surname : jac
given name ::islam azziz ahmed
——————-
"Have you ever used other names (i.e., maiden, religious, professional, alias, etc.)?" should I fill it Yes or No??
and if YES what should I fill in other surname and given name field?
and what is degree of risk about my case ?
thanks
June 13, 2020 at 00:34
https://britsimonsays.com/for-people-who-cannot-submit-the-ds260-for-dv2021/comment-page-1/#comment-230432
June 13, 2020 at 01:21
Hi @BritSimon,
Need your opinion and guidelines. I just read this article https://www.rollcall.com/2020/06/12/administration-puts-hold-on-green-card-requests-from-us/
The USCIS puts on hold the adjustment of status process in the US. The exceptions to the hold include applications of medical providers and the applications that concern an “emergent or sensitive matter”. What does this “emergent or sensitive matter” means? Is the case for DV 2020 apply for this? Do we have any chances to appeal?
Please help!!! 🙁
June 13, 2020 at 04:56
Appeal what? FOs were on reduced staff and were not conducting interviews – you know that. You need to be patient.
June 13, 2020 at 08:11
Do you mean there is nothing we can do to increase our chances, just wait and see if we get through or not? I already sent my package, paid my fees and USCIS accepted them, sending me back the receipt. I thought there are some rules in place, that would force USCIS to “do its job” that was paid for. Considering the tight deadline, can’t we force them somehow to prioritize DV cases, as they still will continue to process some other cases, that are excempt from this hold?
P.S. Being patient is getting harder and harder in all these circumstances, when you try to play by the rules, but these rules are changing every day. Sorry if I bother you too much, but I hopped you can give some advice from the legal standpoint, as you know the process much better. Thanks!
June 13, 2020 at 17:22
No they cannot be forced to do their job, although there are some steps you can take to push the case along. Mom is the right person to advise you about that. Just remember that in previous years I have seen AOS cases start in September and still make the deadline – so right now there is no reason to panic.
June 15, 2020 at 01:32
Thank you Brit, appreciate for you advice and all your work…
June 13, 2020 at 01:47
Hi , i have a question please with the section of have you attended any educational institutions ? I have transferred myself from one university to other in the 3rd grade of my university education . So the main question When I mention the first university. What should I write in the field of diploma or degree ? Can I write NO DEGREE Or N/A ?
June 13, 2020 at 04:57
Whatever you were studying.
June 13, 2020 at 08:33
I have this same question. Do you mean if you can put ‘Bachelor Degree’ in the Degree Field even if you didn’t receive the Bachelor Degree from that university? Similarly if you started a diploma but did not finish it: you still put down the institution attended, and the diploma even if you didn’t receive it?
June 13, 2020 at 17:25
No – you list the course you were studying – like accountancy. Once you pass you refer to the level you attained. If your present occupation is at college studying accounting for instance then you obviously have not completed the course yet.
June 13, 2020 at 02:49
Hi Simon, Do you have VB data for Nepal only? What possibility do you see for 2021AS…7504
June 13, 2020 at 05:00
That;s fine.
June 13, 2020 at 06:16
Hello. Has anyone received documents instructions submission for the DV 2021 Lottery yet?
June 13, 2020 at 17:13
I’m not certain, but people don’t have to wait to be asked. Having said that it would be very foolish to obtain documents and submit them now for a case number that would wait for a year anyway.
June 13, 2020 at 05:10
Hi Simon let me first thank you for your effort
I just have simple Q
in the eDV entry in Oct lats year I write my name with wrong first name spilling it should be AHMED and I wrote it AHMAED
so now what should i do in the DS form
and is that can cause any trouble to me in the interview
June 13, 2020 at 16:52
You should enter the name correctly on the DS260.
June 13, 2020 at 05:27
Hi Simons, Hi everyone.
When filling ds 260, after putting down my information as principal applicant, I continue to fill out the form for my spouse.
I have the following problem in section “previous employment”: I enter all the data and save the info continuously. This because, I have tried many times to enter the data, I go till a certain point by saving them, and then all stops and page is down.
When I log in again, data at the section are not saved. It is frustrating to know that you have spent like 30 mins to enter data, and everything in this section is gone.
This problem is happening from 2 days.
So, I enter and re enter data without being able to save them at the page although I save them.
Is it a problem with the application?
I tried to log in, during different hours during the day and night. The same problem.
I cannot finish this section from 2 days now.
I tried to change browser, from chrome to firefox, Same problem.
Has anyone found a solution on such problem, any advise?
June 13, 2020 at 16:53
Try a different broswer to the two you have tried. Once in a section, complete tha section fast, and save your progress.
June 13, 2020 at 05:37
My friend won the visa lottery. Is failing to prove you won’t be a public charge BY ITSELF enough for them to deny a green card? They have many other factors in their favor, such as past work history in the US.
I’m unable to sponsor my friend and I don’t think they have enough money to show they won’t become a public charge, though I am highly confident they will find employment once here.
Also, if my friend is asked to bring an I-134 form but cannot, will they automatically be denied?
Is it absolutely necessary to “prove your wealth”, as I’ve seen it called?
So, if my friend doesn’t have enough money and cannot provide an affidavit of support, are they pretty much screwed? 🙁
June 13, 2020 at 16:58
You are mixing things up a little. Yes you can be denied for public charge. However, there are various factors considered for that, and whilst an I-134 is the safest, it’s not the only way, and it is not always requested. However, once the CO asks for an I-134, yes it should be provided, otherwise the case will not be approved.
June 13, 2020 at 17:36
Thank you for answering! My friend said that it’s 50/50 if they ask for it and, if they do, all hope is lost. Do they ask right before an interview?
I am worried that the fact that he does not have enough money saved and won’t be able to get an affidavit of support will “put the nail in his coffin”, so to speak. He is young, relatively healthy, has previous work history in the US and speaks near perfect English.
Do you have any idea of the likelihood based on the embassy? He is in Bulgaria going to the US embassy. His interview is in September. Thank you for your time and knowledge — you are invaluable!
June 13, 2020 at 18:09
chances don’t just vary by embassy they depend on the case, but these days the I-134 is being used more often so why would anyone gamble a GC by not taken that seriously.
June 13, 2020 at 18:14
He does not know anyone in the US except me
and I cannot provide an affidavit of support.
I don’t know if there’s any other way he can come up with the money, like a loan or something…
June 13, 2020 at 06:18
Hi Brit, I have been selected for processing in DV 2021, but my number is 32XX in Oceania. Would you think it very unlikely I will be scheduled for interview?
June 13, 2020 at 17:15
That is a high number for sure. However, we don’t know how many selectees there are yet – so we don’t know just how high that number really is. I suggest you want the video in the link below.
https://britsimonsays.com/explaining-dv2021-case-numbers/
June 13, 2020 at 07:22
Yes, I also had the exact same problem. What I did was this: I ave 5 education to be entered. In the box for the number of education I first put 1 and entered the first education, saved the page, came back again, changed the number from 1 to 2 and added the second education, saved the page, came back, and so forth.
June 13, 2020 at 10:30
Morning sir
If i made a mistake in the birth dates and names how can i correct them before filling the ds 260 form .
Thank you
June 13, 2020 at 17:35
You correct them in the DS260 itself.
June 13, 2020 at 11:03
Hi simon!
i wanted to know what is my chance to get an intweview.
if the case numer has a chance.
it is 2021AS00029XXX
June 13, 2020 at 17:36
It is too early to know.
https://britsimonsays.com/explaining-dv2021-case-numbers/
June 13, 2020 at 11:24
Hello Simon !
I completed the DS-260, after which I sent it. After a day I realized that I made a mistake when I completed it. I emailed KCC to unlock my DS 260, and today I received this message ” KCC has not yet received your DS-260 form. If you need to correct any of your information, please make the corrections before submitting the form. ” what do you think, what should I do ?
Thank you !
June 13, 2020 at 17:37
A submitted DS260 says “completed on the login page. If it doesn’t say completed, it is not submitted and is unlocked for editing.
June 13, 2020 at 20:20
The idea is that on the login page it says “completed”, and I can’t even edit it. But I’m not sure why KFC did not received my DS
June 14, 2020 at 00:43
Wait a few days then.
June 13, 2020 at 13:55
I was born in One Region of Guinea, after my 16 years I came to Another region of Guinea. Because I moved to two regions of the same Country, should I mention this in the Ds260 on this part “Have you lived anywhere other than this address since the age of
sixteen?
“
June 13, 2020 at 17:51
Yes you document previous addresses.
June 13, 2020 at 14:25
Would a potential furlough at USCIS affect processing DV Lottery Cases? Unless Congress kicks in additional funding, it seems they are targeting late August now.
What are your thoughts on the matter in general?
June 13, 2020 at 17:56
It could do, especially AOS cases.
June 13, 2020 at 14:32
Hi Simon! Glad to have you here. Im facing a situation in filling out the address. my address is 5/5 which basically has a ‘stroke’. Should i write it words or write it as 5.5. How should i write it? Thanks it’d be a great help
June 13, 2020 at 17:57
I don’t know – a space or spaces perhaps?
June 13, 2020 at 14:48
hi Simon,
I am an MBBS student and I am in my final year. I won the lottery in this year,
1. My question is, if they ask me what are you going to do ( work) in USA, what should I reply ? cause I will be finishing my studies and going probably, so should I answer I will continue my studies which I will be continuing in my home country only. And after going to USA I need to get the license to work there, so what should I answer if they ask me this question sir ? Thank you for all your help
June 13, 2020 at 18:01
Just explain the plan, telling the truth.
June 14, 2020 at 03:00
Simon, there was a question in the DS260 stating…..” Are you a foreign medical graduate and haven’t got the license from council and going to come to use”? what should I answer yes or no?? I haven’t graduated though I am still in final year so the answer is No right ?? I just got confused Simon.. Thank you
June 14, 2020 at 04:10
“No”
June 13, 2020 at 17:04
Hi Simon,
Do you happen to know if current unemployment can work against you when submitting the DS260?
I was made redundant at the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic, but I have both a high school and university education and 7 years of work experience.
Annoyingly there is no box to explain the situation when selecting “unemployed” on the form.
Thanks for your help.
June 13, 2020 at 18:12
Doesn’t matter. Everyone who emigrates quits their job.
June 13, 2020 at 17:20
Dear Simon
I’m a DV2020 winner, my case number is around AF46K. Taking into consideration this whole mess caused by trump, COVID19, and KCC. Do you think it’s a good idea to apply for a tourist Visa and go for an adjustment of status when I reach the U.S.
Things here in Vietnam are really safe and it’s covidfree for more than 2 months. Taking that into consideration, should I do the deed as soon as the embassies resume their services. I hate to speculate or make predictions but I want to make sure I’m doing everything possible to make my chances for a greencard as high as possible.
P.S I recieved the DS260 and documents confirmation last March and I’m ready for scheduling.
Thank you for your time and God bless.
June 13, 2020 at 18:12
No that’s a really bad idea. Entering the USA on a NIV with a plan to adjust is fraud. PLus – AOS cases are not fast, and they are also seeing delays. Since you are ready for scheduling, your best chance is to wait for embassies to reopen and you should be interviewed, as long as they don’t reduce the case numbers (retrogress).
June 13, 2020 at 19:06
I see thanks for the quick reply I appreciate it
June 13, 2020 at 18:14
Hi Brit, can you give me directives on it to retrieve my verification code? I lost it and cannot check if I have been selected or not. Thanks
June 13, 2020 at 19:04
There is a link on the ESC page to retrieve your code if you lost it.
June 13, 2020 at 18:28
I’m a Belgian thinking about participating in the DV lottery this year. I’m a 22 year old junior software developer and I always thought about going to the states because of the innovative nature and history of the USA. But because I’m a junior profile i am having second thoughts about participating and maybe you can clear up some of my barriers.
Are you obliged to move to the states immediately after getting your green card activated? Can I still live in Belgium for over 6 months or a year for example to get everything done with my employer and get more experience and money so i have a stronger position in the US market?
My second question is, will I still be able to visit Belgium to see my family without the need of a visa to enter the european union? And what about my nationality? Will it stay the same? Because a green card isn’t a real citizenship? So what would be my nationality?
June 13, 2020 at 19:12
You are obliged to enter within the 6 months, but you don’t have to take up residence right then – you can leave and make the final move later.
You keep your original citizenship.
Without wanting to offend you, you do sound very “green”. Emigration is not for everyone – it takes guts, determination, self reliance.
But anyway – it’s just a lottery – most people that apply (by far) don’t get selected.
June 13, 2020 at 21:05
Thank you for your response it gave me a lot to think about!
June 13, 2020 at 20:02
Dear Brit,
I won in 2021DV and I completed the DS-260 application form about 3 days ago, but I forgot to mention my high school diploma in the education history and just filled out with my university information, so I tried to send an email to [email protected] for unlock request as you have expressed in your blog with all the details such as case number, full name and date of birth, but unfortunately every time I received this auto reply email immediately after my email:
The Kentucky Consular Center (KCC) has received your email. This email address, [email protected] is for case-specific Diversity Visa inquires only. If you would like to check the status of your entry, please do so at http://www.dvlottery.state.gov/ESC. This website is the definitive means of determining whether or not you were selected for possible further processing. You must see a notice that is addressed to you by name as proof of selection to process further in the DV program.
For inquiries about specific cases, please ensure that you have included your case number, first and last name, and date of birth with your inquiry. If this information is not provided or is inaccurate, KCC will be unable to process your inquiry.
Is it necessary to make revisions due to fill out my diploma? and what should I do with this email problem?
June 14, 2020 at 00:42
Yes I would suggest you unlock and correct that.
June 13, 2020 at 20:11
Hello Simon,
Thank you so much for your time.
Just a question: do you think that once an embassy will restart working, they will have enough time for all the DV visa cases already given and expired or do you think they will be selective or continue just with the interviews?
June 14, 2020 at 00:42
It is clear there is not enough time.
June 13, 2020 at 20:22
Hi Britsimon,
First of all, I’d like to thank you for your informative blog and videos. If only we came across your videos before filling the DS 260 form. As you also mentioned in your videos the message from KCC makes you wanna rush. So that’s what we did and consequently made some slight mistakes regarding my father’s surname. I was wondering if you could you guide me on how to open my DS 260 form again?
In addition to that, I have an uncle in the US who’s willing to sponsor me and my husband. They told me that I need to fill some additional form about sponsorship but I haven’t been able to find such a form yet. So I was also wondering if you could shed some light on sponsorship and the procedure?
Thanks for your help and support
June 14, 2020 at 00:44
1. Read the faq for instructions on how to unlock.
2. https://britsimonsays.com/all-about-public-charge-affidavit-of-support-i-134/
June 14, 2020 at 11:56
Hi Mr. Simon,
Thank you for your prompt and insightful response. If I may, I’d like to ask another question regarding my number case which is just under 2021AS3500. My country of origin is Iran but I have been living in Turkey for the last 6 years. Assuming that President Trump for some miraculous reasons won’t extend the travel ban, what is your thoughts on the estimated interview date of a number case like mine?
Also, would the fact that I have been living outside Iran for a long time help my case in any possible way?
Thank you
June 14, 2020 at 18:41
Wait until the election in November. If Trump loses the bans are likely to be removed in early 2021 – and then you would have a chance. Other than that, you are banned unless you have another passport from a non banned country.
June 13, 2020 at 20:41
Thank you Brit for advise
As filling in a spouse ds 260 at the end when you about to finish do i put my passport number or my spouse pass port number. It’s in the section where they ask for a case number and passport number
June 14, 2020 at 00:44
The passport of your spouse.
June 13, 2020 at 20:56
hi simon, my two kids have american passports. we arranged to have the delivery there for this purpose. expenses were covered by medicare for the forst child, the second they said we ve to pay and we did and then they refunded back ( don’t know why).I m worried they might ask why and how the kids got passports and if expenses were covered by our side
June 14, 2020 at 00:46
Yeah, they might well ask.
June 13, 2020 at 21:00
Dear Brit,
I have been selected for a dvlottery visa program. During the initial application a consultant who filled out the entry listed as a derivative my daughter who was already 21 years old. I am worried about that fact because I am wondering if this means disqualification for me, my spouse and my younger-under 21 years old son or just for my daughter. Does this “mistake” penalize me ?
June 14, 2020 at 00:47
It should not penalize you.
June 14, 2020 at 06:25
Thank you for answering so quickly!
Is It something that happens often or is it a unique/rare mistake ? Whats more, its up to CO to decide on this or is it something normal and in no way punish me ?
Everything else as regards documentation is ok ( diplomas from university , no penalties etc)
June 14, 2020 at 06:51
Sorry for asking you all the time. But my questions are based on these paragraphs, especially the second one I found in official page of state.gov:
—-> “Children: You must list ALL your living children who are unmarried and under 21 years of age at the time of your initial DV entry, whether they are your natural children, your step-children (even if you are now divorced from that child’s parent), your spouse’s children, or children you have formally adopted in accordance with the applicable laws. List all children under 21 years of age at the time of your electronic entry, even if they no longer reside with you or you do not intend for them to immigrate under the DV program. You are not required to list children who are already U.S. citizens or Lawful Permanent Residents, though you will not be penalized if you do include them.
If you list family members on your entry, they are not required to apply for a visa or to immigrate or travel with you. However, IF YOU FAIL TO INCLUDE AN ELIGIBLE DEPENDENT ON YOUR ORIGINAL ENTRY OR LIST SOMEONE WHO IS NOT YOUR DEPENDENT ,your case will be disqualified at the time of your visa interview, and no visas will be issued to you or any of your family members. This only applies to those who were family members at the time the entry was submitted, not those acquired at a later date. “
I am confused the most about this sentence : “if you list someone who is not your dependent”
My daughter is 21 years and 10 months (during the initial entry was 21 and 3 months ) old right now and unmarried so she is considered as my dependent, right ??
June 14, 2020 at 15:59
She is your dependent. It’s hopefully just an honest mistake, although I thought the form would have caught it with a calculation of age (which makes me think that the DOB was changed). But anyway, as an honest mistake it shouldn’t be a problem as I said.
June 14, 2020 at 16:51
“In most cases a dependent is a child under age 18. For tax purposes, a child over 18 is only a dependent if he/she is attending school/college and you are paying the tuition.
If this is the criteria dvlottery uses,and your child is a student, you can list him/her just as though they were and under 18, simply provide the information as to your child’s student status when asked.
If your child is NOT a student, you cannot claim him/her on paperwork as a dependent anymore. So you would not include them. “
They sent me the message above, is It valid and true ? My daughter is a student and I can prove that I’m paying for her studies from bills, rent house,university registration etc.
I’m confused too about the point you mentioned before as regards the form that It should caught her because of her age( however Birth date was written corectly). How do you explain/interpret this ? Will they also consider It as two-way street mistake? I mean its not only my mistake but its systems mistake too that she accepted her ??
June 14, 2020 at 19:12
I can’t keep going round and round with you on this. The 18 year old thing is completely inaccurate. Who told you that nonsense?
June 13, 2020 at 21:12
Hi sir, hope you’re doing well. I have lived in multiple locations in the same city since I turned 16 because I stayed in rent. How important is it to include every addresses i lived? Is it okay to omit any of the address history? And why is adding the addresses history important?
June 14, 2020 at 00:47
No need to list every single address, just do the best you can.
June 13, 2020 at 21:12
Greetings Brit, I wish to find out the day of my interview (dv2020 case number AFXXX68XXX )
June 14, 2020 at 00:48
Of course you do. I don’t know it though. You have to wait and see whether embassies reopen or not.
June 13, 2020 at 23:08
Hello Brit,
I am EU32XXX 2020,
Do you have any information about the embassies, when will they open?
June 14, 2020 at 00:55
No