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February 19, 2026 at 16:14
Hi Simon,
Is it possible at all to determine the current uptake rate of people still going to interviews compared with not submitting their DS-260 at all for each region for numbers which are current? As mentioned before, I am in a risky range (EU39k) so just trying to get some kind of steer on my chances i.e if less people are not wanting/able to move therefore greater chance of higher case numbers being reached.
February 19, 2026 at 16:48
Not really. The math won’t work for you at that number. You need a situation of your number going current and being at a good embassy (with enough capacity or few cases)
February 19, 2026 at 16:56
I know its impossible to predict future VB numbers but generally for us higher eu case numbers would you say the latest VB jump in all regions is sufficient to keep us in with a fair chance or would an even greater jump needed to of been seen to have a realistic shot at being reached?
February 19, 2026 at 17:06
It just isn’t that clear. Numbers can increase, or freeze, or even go backwards. One jump of 9k does not mean every month will be 9k. I get it – you are looking for something to give you a clue – but really – this hasn’t told us anything for sure.
February 19, 2026 at 16:04
March Visa Bulletin finally out, I see big movement but unfortunately no news from the Department of State regarding the DV lottery pause… at least not yet anyway. Keeping my fingers crossed for everybody!
February 19, 2026 at 15:02
Dear Simon,
I understand that you have made it clear that you are not a lawyer and do not work for them. However, I would appreciate your opinion about the Impact litigation lawsuit. They have listed several conditions for joining the lawsuit, but they do not mention cases where the interview is already scheduled in the future (in my case, March 24).
Given the current pauses (DV and the 75 countries pause), I am fairly certain that I will receive a 221(g). They mention situations such as interviews not being scheduled, interviews being canceled, or cases placed in administrative processing after interview (though they do not specifically mention 221(g)), but they do not clearly include my situation in the lawsuit criteria.
Do you think I would still be able to participate in the Impact lawsuit? I would appreciate your opinion on this matter.
February 19, 2026 at 15:08
Yes I believe you could participate.
February 19, 2026 at 12:11
Hi Simon, I had my interview before the pause, and my case went into AP for a security check. When I compare the Curtis group lawsuit with the one filed by IMMPACT, which is a group mandamus, I feel that the IMMPACT case makes more strategic sense for someone in my situation than for someone who hasn’t even been interviewed yet. What are your thoughts on this?
February 19, 2026 at 12:38
I’m not sure how you are coming to that conclusion. Not disagreeing, just not sure what makes you think one is better than the other in that regard. They will both fight the same things, with similar arguments, and might even get combined to be argued jointly. So – maybe you should just consider which characters you prefer, and which financial terms you prefer.
February 19, 2026 at 13:05
I am thinking that because of the lower cost and the larger number of plaintiffs, the pressure on the government may be greater, which could potentially lead to faster movement. In addition, IMMPACT appears to have more experience specifically with DV cases.
February 19, 2026 at 10:23
Hi Simon! Why was the publication of the March visa bulletin delayed? Could it be due to the federal government shutdown?
February 19, 2026 at 12:35
They don’t tell me why they are delayed, but we have had VBs published during shutdowns before – so no, not for that reason.
February 19, 2026 at 08:08
Hi Simon am one of your fan during all the dv process and am 2024AF winner , now am in the US with my two children since October 2024, doing well but since that my wife just got her retirement from the active duty, wanting to get her here to US and am a little bit confused which process i have to adapt is it Follw-to-join and filling the I-824 form or family based immigration F2A category and filling the I-130 form.
Please advise me
February 19, 2026 at 08:10
You can’t do FTJ now – that only works within the same fiscal year.
You would have to use the I-130 process.
Best of luck!
February 19, 2026 at 04:29
Have you filled in a lawsuit process or so? I don’t remember exactly, but you mentioned in one of your videos about 2 months ago that you will fill in a lawsuit or something in those lines with your lawyer with the help of your community and organization that you have. I think you mentioned that if it takes longer than 1-2 months you will do this. Today marks 2 months since the program was halted/put on pause. And it marks more than 3 months since the program usually ends, and more than 4 months since it originally use to start.
February 19, 2026 at 08:09
Yes I filed a lawsuit last year for UK selectees, and have been involved in several others.
THere are two lawsuits being filed to fight the DV pauses and delays. Links below.
https://redeaglelaw.com/group-lawsuit-dv2026
https://www.immpactlitigation.com/dv-2026-mandamus-litigation-plaintiff-onboarding-open-until-february-13th/
February 19, 2026 at 02:09
Hello Simon! I emailed KCC inquiring about the start date of dv 2027. They emailed back, from their response “dv 2027 will begin shortly” how soon is shortly? Can it roll UpTo March?
Thank you for your inquiry.
Registration for the 2027 Diversity Visa program (DV-2027) will begin shortly. Individuals who submit more than one entry during the registration period will be disqualified. The website at DVprogram.state.gov will be the only way to register for DV-2027. Entries will NOT be accepted through the U.S. Postal Service.
In order for the Kentucky Consular Center to assist with inquiries regarding a specific Diversity Visa (DV) case, you must provide the Principal Applicant’s full name, complete case number, and date of birth in the following format (MMDDYYYY) as entered on the original entry. Please remember that the Kentucky Consular Center does not have the authority to tell you whether or not your specific case will be disqualified. Only a consular officer can do that at the time of your visa interview. Do not send any paper documents to the Kentucky Consular Center.
For additional information, please refer to the following websites:
Diversity Visa Website: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/diversity-visa-program-entry.html
Diversity Visa Instructions: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/diversity-visa-program-entry/diversity-visa-instructions.html
DS-260 instructions: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/diversity-visa-program-entry/diversity-visa-if-you-are-selected/diversity-visa-submit-your-iv-and-alien-registration-application.html
To enter the Diversity Visa lottery or to check for a selection notice: https://dvprogram.state.gov
_______________________
Phillip
Diversity Visa Unit
U.S. Department of State, Visa Services, Office of Domestic Operations
Bureau of Consular Affairs
Kentucky Consular Center (CA/VO/DO/KCC)
LDRM
Email: [email protected]
*Any information in this transmission pertaining to the issuance or refusal of visas or permits to enter the United States shall be considered confidential under Section 222 (f) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) [8 U.S.C. Section 1202]. Access to and use of such information must be solely for the formulation, amendment, administration, or enforcement of the immigration, nationality, and other laws of the United States under INA 222(f) and as specified in FAM guidance. If you have received such information in error, do not review, retransmit, disclose, disseminate, use, or take any action in reliance upon this information, and contact the sender as soon as possible.
*This email is Sensitive but Unclassified based on the definitions provided in 12 FAM 540.
February 19, 2026 at 08:05
They have been sending that template email for months – so I don’t think we can infer a date from it.
February 18, 2026 at 13:45
Hi Brit,
If the pause lifts but we only have 2 months left on our medicals, that isn’t enough time for a family of 5 to move.
A “soft entry” would cost us $6k in flights, while new medicals are only $1.5k. Can we just redo the exams to “reset” the 6-month clock? Is it possible to choose the medical route whenever we need more time to wrap up our affairs?
Also, whose decision is it to redo the medical, mine or the Embassy’s? If they decide, what is the maximum window they usually allow between the pause lifting and the medical expiring before they let us redo them?
February 18, 2026 at 14:22
This is something you can discuss with the embassy nearer the time. They won’t have a problem with it.
February 18, 2026 at 04:02
Hi Mr. Simon. I would like to thank you for assisting people in finding ways and means to get access to the DV Lottery 2027. I am from the Pacific Island and at times, I do not make it to your live sessions because of the difference in time zones.
I have a question that needs clarification. Before I get to the question, I would like to describe what happened to me. In December 2024, there was an advertisement from Immigration Express stating that they can assist me in finding ways to get employment in USA. However, I needed to pay $5USD to them so that I can be in the queue and they will let me know when they are able to assist me.
I was in Australia at the time working due to a contract that I signed for three years. Upon the completion of my contract, I returned back to my home country. A few months later, I got a call from Immigration Express letting me know that they are able to assist me to find employment through another firm known as USA Visa Consultants. They have my biodata for my passport.
My question is that even though, USA Visa consultants have my biodata, am I still able to use my passport to apply for the DV 2027 when it opens?
Your assistance will be highly appreciated. Thank you.
February 18, 2026 at 08:43
Yes
February 18, 2026 at 11:50
Thank you
February 18, 2026 at 02:27
Hello Simon,
Thanks for the great session with Jesse. I’m interested in the IMMPACT lawsuit.
You asked a question during the stream about the minimum number of plaintiffs required to proceed that went unanswered. Do you have any updates on what that threshold is?
February 18, 2026 at 08:43
No – but I am sure they will meet that threshold.
February 17, 2026 at 23:51
Hi Mr. Simon. I really appreciate what you are doing in assisting people from all walks of life to be able to find opportunities to live and work in the USA through your guidance for the Diversity Visa lottery. At times, I cannot join the live sessions of yours on YouTube due to the time zone difference here in the Pacific. However, I do watch the replays on YouTube when I wake up on a Sunday (Pacific Time).
My question is that sometime back in December 2024, I came across an advertisement by Immigration Express that they will assist me in finding employment assistance in the USA. I paid a fee of $5USD and forgot about the application process. I was in Australia at the time on a work contract for three years. When I returned, I got calls at first from Immigration Express and then someone from USA Visa Consultants called me and asked whether I was interested in continuing my application process to find work in the USA as a forklift driver. I am just wondering if this company is a legit company as they have kept on requesting money from me to be able to process my application further. After hearing this opportunity to go to live and work in the USA under the DV lottery last year 2025, I am wondering if I am still able to apply for the DV 2027 as this company has a soft copy of my bio data from my passport.
I am putting my middle name on my birth certificate as people find it hard to pronounce my first name.
Your assistance will be highly appreciated.
February 18, 2026 at 08:48
This is probably not legitimate – I would not pay them any money.
Quite frankly, there is no visa program that covers fork lift truck drivers. That skill is easily learned, and not really seasonal, so it is not a path for employment based visas. It just doesn’t sound at all realistic.
February 18, 2026 at 11:52
Thank you, Mr. Simon.
February 17, 2026 at 20:47
Hi Simon !
Any thoughts about the fact that we still don’t have no VB ?
Thanks,
February 17, 2026 at 20:50
Its annoying. That’s all.
February 17, 2026 at 12:29
Hi everyone,
Brit, hope you don’t mind — just a quick question and observation:
Are there any active DV-2026 participants here from Serbia on Brit’s channel? How are you holding up and how are things progressing on your side?
February 17, 2026 at 16:17
Yes. But with a high case number 40k+. What’s your case number? I am also in contact with several winners. If you wish you can leave a contact here.
February 18, 2026 at 04:38
Hi Maya,
Thanks for jumping in.
Our case number is in the 28–29k range. We’re still hoping for a realistic scenario and a steady Visa Bulletin progression, but as you know, it’s a waiting game at this point.
If you’re comfortable, could you leave your email here so we can connect directly and exchange updates?
All the best,
Milos
February 18, 2026 at 05:23
Hi Milos,
Sorry, I don’t feel comfortable leaving my email here in public. If Simon can help and connect us, that’d be great. I know he can see our emails.
February 18, 2026 at 06:25
Hi Simon,
Would it be possible for you to connect Maya and me via email or private message?
We completely understand her preference not to share her contact details publicly. It would be very helpful for us to exchange updates directly, especially given the similar DV-2026 case number range.
Thank you in advance for your support — we truly appreciate it.
Best regards,
Milos
February 18, 2026 at 12:31
Guys join the group on telegram. We can chat there in private.
March 2, 2026 at 11:39
Hey! What’s the telegram group name?
February 17, 2026 at 12:20
Hi Simon,
Of course just a rumour but according to the below reddit post they have been told that the 75 country pause may be lifted in the coming weeks. Just thought would share in case of interest.
https://www.reddit.com/r/NationalVisaCenter/s/7xg6s89kfV
February 17, 2026 at 12:23
Yes – I saw the rumor. I’ll wait for the reality…
February 17, 2026 at 12:34
On a seperate note what causes the fluctuations in Visa Bulletin publish dates if these numbers are already decided earlier in the month? For example this month is still not even out yet whereas last month was the 12th and previous months were different dates again.
February 17, 2026 at 14:47
For some reason they never found time to explain themselves to me…
February 17, 2026 at 14:13
Are there similar rumors about the diversity visa pause?
February 17, 2026 at 14:48
I haven’t heard any…
February 17, 2026 at 12:06
Hello Simon. I have my bachelors transcript without my bachelors certificate. Have my greencard visa interview soon. Would that be a problem? How can i get access to your dv visa interview questions?
February 17, 2026 at 12:24
They normally want the certificate – but make sure you have all the High School proof.
https://britsimonsays.com/interview-experience-stories/
February 17, 2026 at 11:34
Hello simon! i have entered into the states as a dv winner 2026.
I am trying to pay the green card fees and everytime i enter my A number it says not identified! I have received my visa one month ago! What is the solution for this ?
February 17, 2026 at 12:08
Sounds like you are doing something wrong – but I am not expert on that system.
February 17, 2026 at 08:11
Hi Simon,
I’m a British DV-2026 Lottery “winner” – my case number is roughly 13XXXX – just wondering if there is any point in submitting a DS-260?
I’m aware that number is incredibly unlikely to become current. I regularly visit American relatives and friends and don’t want to have Immigrant Intent marked on my record in case I try and pursue an O-1 visa later or they revoke my ESTA.
Forgive me if you’ve already answered this question somewhere else recently.
Very grateful for all your help,
Joshua
February 17, 2026 at 08:34
Look, in a normal or well run year, your number should not get a chance. The only reason you got selected at all was because of my lawsuit, I sued them because they had not included any UK winners. But for some unknown reason they “overreacted” to the lawsuit and went nuts in selecting cases up to about EU190k. Normal EU numbers go up to about 48k this year.
However, this year has a lot of craziness, with travel bans, pauses and so on. It is possible that in the craziness the government just “shortcircuit” in their heads and make the region current. If that happens (which is a small but possible scenario) then your case would have a chance. If that happens, it might happen so late that there would not be enough time to submit your DS260 at that point. So – you can delay submission for another few weeks, but you will at some point have to decide whether to “risk” submission or not.
About the downside of filing a DS260. Filing a DS260 can cause suspicion of “immigrant intent”. That can be a factor against your approval for *SOME* non immigrant visas. It is not a knock out factor on ANY visas, nor the ESTA. Immigrant intent is not a concern *AT ALL* on nonj immigrant visas that are recognized as “dual intent” – and O-1 visas are in that category, so a previously filed DS260 has NO IMPACT on an O-1 case.
February 17, 2026 at 07:51
Hi Simon,
For some reason I can’t find my case in CEAC, it says Your search did not return any data.
I tried using NA for only passport, name or both. I tried using my spouse passport with my last name/hers. My interview is already scheduled and is very soon.
Could it be because the consulate just recently added my spouse to the case? It worked fine before I was scheduled as after, it did not work for a small period before I resubmitted the DS-260 though.
February 17, 2026 at 08:02
Apparently you have not seen/read anything I have explained about the change to CEAC.
Once the case is scheduled, the name and passport number (of one of the familiy members) have to be added to the screen to pull up the case details.
February 17, 2026 at 09:01
I’ve seen your post regarding the CEAC, The thing is, as I explained nothing works.
Not my passport number neither hers, she holds another nationality with the respective passport, I tried with that number as well using my last name as well as her last name even first name.
Any ideas? As mentioned we had our case updated by the embassy a week ago, could that have an impact?
February 17, 2026 at 11:23
When the case was scheduled they added data to those new fields. Try NA for the passport number. Something will work.
February 17, 2026 at 12:59
Thank you!
NA for passport and spouse last name worked. I swear I’ve tried that combo before.
The last updated date on the case is February 17th which is today, so maybe it was related to my case being updated.
February 17, 2026 at 14:47
OK cool.
February 17, 2026 at 04:00
Hi Brit good morning
Pls this morning I tried checking my case status and instead of getting the nomal respond of your search didnt return any result
I recieve this
U.S. Department of State
IMMIGRANT VISA APPLICATION
At NVC
Immigrant Visa Case Number: 2026AF*****
Гуре
ISA (IV)
Case Number
it Visa C
199962
r applic or to Ja
asspor
Numbe
tters of
s shown
If you case is processing electronically, please log into your CEAC account at ceac.state.gov/iv with your NVC case number and 16 digit Invoice ID for case status and to learn what steps you must take to advance your case. Disregard the instructions below, they do not apply to electronic processing.
If your case is processing on paper (you mailed paper documents to NVC for review), then the case status and instructions below apply to your case.
Please follow the instructions you received from the National Visa Center (NVC) that list the six steps you must take before
NVC can schedule your visa interview appointment. This includes submitting to NVC various fees, forms and documents. Once NVC has received all the required items, they will let you know if anything is missing or incomplete.
You can also find these instructions online at
http://nvc.state.gov (English) and http://nvc.state.gov/espanol
(Spanish). You will find contact information for NVC at http://nvc.state.gov/ask.
Considering the fact that the US embassy in Yaounde hasn’t been working
Those this means they have started sending out 2NL or how can u interpret this please
February 17, 2026 at 08:00
This doesn’t mean anything. I have no idea what you think is important about what you posted.
February 17, 2026 at 09:00
I don’t understand the message at all that’s why am asking if u can explain it to me
February 17, 2026 at 11:25
I can’t explain it because it is meaningless.
February 16, 2026 at 14:27
Hi Simon,
I’m reviewing the OIRA/Reginfo entry for “Visas: Enhancing Vetting and Combatting Fraud in the Diversity Immigrant Visa” and noticed the review shows a Concluded Date of February 10, 2026 and Consistent with Change.
Could you explain what this signifies in practice, and whether this milestone has any meaningful connection to when the DV-2027 entry period will be announced/opened?
Thank you.
Link for reference: https://www.reginfo.gov/public/do/eoDetails?rrid=1209611
February 16, 2026 at 16:11
People are getting too fixated on administrative crap. When the announcement is released we will have the answer.
February 16, 2026 at 13:21
Do you still believe the 2027 lottery will start? If yes, then about when really?
And if it doesn’t start, do you think there is a chance that they will add 100 000 for the 2028 lottery because 2027 was cancelled?
I personally think that if this one does not start, it will be the end of DV lottery program forever.
February 16, 2026 at 16:09
Yes I believe it will be held, and no they could not move visas around.
February 16, 2026 at 18:51
So when do you (think) it will be held then? We have literally passed more than 3 months since when the lottery usually ends, i.e in the beginning of November… Do you think it will be held during the spring-summer time? There is a time limit as you know and understand. If you are saying that they could not move visas around, referring to adding 50 000 to the year 2028, then it has to start before the summer , at least 6 months before the next lottery starts, and that would be in April.
February 16, 2026 at 20:09
You know as much as I do.
February 16, 2026 at 11:01
Hi Brit, I just wanted to ask if it’s true that the fee to participate in the lawsuit is $3,350. Could you please confirm? Thank you!
February 16, 2026 at 16:08
I don’t know which lawsuit you are referring to.
February 16, 2026 at 20:39
Immpact
February 16, 2026 at 22:36
So no. It is $750
February 17, 2026 at 00:34
As I understand it, there are two separate lawsuits — one with a $750 fee and another with a $2,600 fee related to the two pauses.
Have I understood this correctly, or am I mistaken?
February 17, 2026 at 07:43
You are mistaken. The DV lawsuit will fight the pauses for the one fee. Just wait for clarification on their onboarding.
February 17, 2026 at 03:02
Hi say
Is 750$ payment includes lawsuits for 75 country’s pose for Dv 2026 Winners or its only for Dv pose ?
February 16, 2026 at 06:41
Hello Brit Simon,
I had my interview on February 4th but was issued a 221(g) refusal. I’ve been trying to monitor my case on the https://ceac.state.gov/CEACStatTracker/Status.aspx?App=IV, but every time I enter my case number, passport number, and the first five letters of my surname, I get the message: “Your search did not return any data.”
BTW I’ve tried to fill the case number with and without the zeros, but nothing helped.
Is it normal for the system to show no record of my case?
February 16, 2026 at 09:29
Hi Jay. The same happened to me on the past . Try to type these 2 letters : NA (on both the passport number and the first 5 letters of surname). Case number without ceros. Hope this will help .Regards
February 16, 2026 at 09:35
First, it is without the leading zeros.
Second, for the passport number, if you have derivatives, try their passport numbers. Believe it or not – the government like to use the last file updated…
February 16, 2026 at 10:56
Thanks Simon,
Your were right, it was my daughter’s passport that unlocked it.
This is the message they left me there:
A U.S. consular officer has adjudicated and refused your visa application. Please follow any instructions provided by the consular officer. If you were informed by the consular officer that your case was refused for administrative processing, your case will remain refused while undergoing such processing. You will receive another adjudication once such processing is complete. Please be advised that the processing time varies and that you will be contacted if additional information is needed. For more information, please visit TRAVEL.STATE.GOV or the website for the Embassy or Consulate at which you made your visa application.
For more information, please visit TRAVEL.STATE.GOV.
I assume this is the standard message for cases placed under 221(g).
February 16, 2026 at 16:08
Yep, thats 221g
February 15, 2026 at 08:03
Thank you for arranging the interview with Immpact.
Please correct me if I’m misunderstanding their position, but it seems that they may not be directly challenging the DV pause itself. From what I gathered, their proposed relief, ordering the government to adjudicate visa applications within a reasonable period, doesn’t appear to address the actual issue of the pause. The Department of State could simply argue that consulates are continuing to schedule interviews, albeit slowly, which would allow them to claim compliance without tackling the underlying issue.
Am I interpreting this correctly, or did I miss something in their approach?
February 15, 2026 at 11:59
It seems we didn’t clear up that point well enough. THey are attacking the DV pause, the 75 country pause and the non issuance of visas under the 212f travel ban. Based on the conversation yesterday, they may split their lawsuits into separate matters. I will be interviewing Jesse again nearer the deadline for registration.
February 15, 2026 at 23:09
Thank you, Uncle Simon :).
We will have a clear picture after the next interviews with Curtis and Jesse.
Thank you again for advocating for us and helping us make good, informed decisions.
February 16, 2026 at 10:55
Dear Mr. Simon,
Is a visa refusal under section 221(g) considered temporary or permanent, especially under the current visa bans?
Thank you
February 16, 2026 at 16:08
Temporary
February 15, 2026 at 05:21
Dear Brit,
I would like to ask if there is any serious lawsuit regarding the two pauses that could personally benefit DV-2026 selectees from the Europe region. If so, could you please send me the relevant contact details?
Thank you,
February 15, 2026 at 11:56
There are two lawsuits that I know of. I suggest you watch my video interview with one of the lawyers yesterday – which is posted here and on my YT channel.
February 15, 2026 at 12:40
Could you please send me the registration link/address and confirm the registration fee for the two lawsuits related to the Europe region?
February 15, 2026 at 13:12
Two links. You can read their terms.
https://redeaglelaw.com/group-lawsuit-dv2026
https://www.immpactlitigation.com/dv-2026-mandamus-litigation-plaintiff-onboarding-open-until-february-13th/
February 15, 2026 at 13:29
75 Country Ban Lawsuit – Registration Closed?
February 15, 2026 at 13:43
Regarding the lawsuit that includes the 75 countries (including my country), I understand that the registration closed on February 13.
Could you please confirm if it is now fully closed and whether there is any other option still available for us?
February 15, 2026 at 13:53
It isnt closed. READ IT.
February 15, 2026 at 05:13
Hi Simon,
I have yet to submit my DS-260 due to having a high case number within the EU, I am worried by submitting the DS-260 any future plans to apply for an ESTA will be denied. Therefore would you know if submitting my DS-260 would mean all future ESTA applications would be denied due to showing immigration intent? I am reading conflicting advice so your guidance would be much appreciated. In addition, when is the absolute latest I could submit the DS-260?
Thanks
February 15, 2026 at 10:50
Hi Steven, hope you’re well.
Me too! – I haven’t submitted my DS-260 yet either, as I have no idea whether to wait and see what further info we get from the government or to get it quickly submitted and into the system.
I’m a UK selectee (130K CN – ridiculous I know 😂) – what’s your number range?
I’m sure Si will be able to assist with your message.
All the best,
Ryan.
February 15, 2026 at 13:35
Hi Ryan,
I am also a UK selectee with CN of 39k, so not as high as yours but still high enough to worry if my number will get current or not haha. The whole process is quite frustrating being a high CN with thinking your a winner only to find out you actually havent won anything and having to endure waiting for each and every VB hoping it increases substantially enough for your number to be reached at some point before the Sep deadline. When was you planning to make a decision on when to submit your DS-260 or not? I was hoping to wait until after next months VB but by then idk if it will be too late or not.
February 15, 2026 at 14:03
Yeah yours is much more safe than mine lol, but I understand your confusion as this is a very strange year and we don’t really have data to compare against at the moment. In a normal year, as Si would say your chances are very low to none (compared from previous years for EU region) My chances wouldn’t even be in the equation with a 130K number 😂. But as you know as well as I do, miracles do happen and I guess we just have to wait and see what happens as frustrating as it is…
Personally, I’d wait for this VB and see where it’s at. Perhaps even the next one too.
I’m stuck in a situation too as myself & my partner recently got engaged a few months ago. We aren’t married (yet) and in order for us to be put through together it would mean going through the faster route at the registry office and going through the whole “legal marriage” path to get us both added on to the DS-260. I know she can be added later on by unlocking the DS-260, but time is definitely at the essence and with the current way this is going I have no faith at all. It just wouldn’t be fair to rush a “legal marriage” for the sake of it when I know we’d rather have our actual marriage on our own terms. Not only this but around the same time the “updated results” were announced for the UK, myself & partner were ready to sign for our first home until we heard the news of our selection and then since that, we have almost put our lives on hold in a way so we remain as open as possible without been tied down to mortgages/responsibilities etc…
This is all such a headache, no one really knows what’s going on at the moment. It would be nice to just tell us, do we have a chance or not?! If not, fine. I will continue with my life. I guess we’re just clinging on to hope, but just keep the hope alive 🤞🏽
Ry!
February 15, 2026 at 15:42
Wow that sounds like a real headache! Well I hope all this waiting around pays off for you in the long run. Tbh I am a bit hesitant to move to America right now the way everything currently is over there and im sure many others are too. Also I am quite young and would be moving away from everyone including family so its definitely a big decision to make. I will see how the next few VB look and then make an overall decision if I really want to go for it or not. I think you are maybe on simons live streams and usually I go to most of them so I am sure will see you around!
February 15, 2026 at 11:54
Filing a DS260 does not cause automatic denial of visas or ESTA. In fact, since the ESTA is NOT a visa adjustment from that status is extremely unlikely.
February 15, 2026 at 13:40
So showing “immigration intent” by submitting my DS-260 would not prevent me getting an ESTA in the future? I read that when you apply for an ESTA I would have to say yes I applied for a visa in the past and this would likely disqualify me? Also when is the latest I could submit my DS-260 and still get ir processed in time? I know I would have to make a decision either way soon but I am just trying to make the best decision I possibly can.
February 15, 2026 at 13:59
About immigrant intent, I already answered.
There is no finite date to submit the DS260, but I would not wait past March.
February 14, 2026 at 22:05
Hi Brit,
Trust you are doing well.
I had my DV2026 interview in Tokyo, Japan on the 12 of Feb 2026.
My wife (Japanese) is the principal winner and I am the spouse from Ghana.
We were told they cant issue the for us because of the pause on DV and the 75 country which I am affected. They placed us under 221(g) pending the lifting of they pause then we should come over the for visas.
We vare waiting and hoping the pauses are over soon.
February 14, 2026 at 18:12
Hi brit, My sponsor is asylum he is citizens of us and having good income in 2024 and little low in 2025 because he stayed outside US for almost 6 months.so asylum sponsor can be issue interview or not. My interview is scheduled in March 12. Do I need tax report of 2025 or 2024 will work
February 15, 2026 at 11:51
A sponsor should be a citizen or LPR.
February 15, 2026 at 18:18
Do I need tax report of 2025 or 2024 will works.
February 15, 2026 at 18:58
That is up to the CO to decide. Use what you have and follow up if needed.
February 14, 2026 at 12:26
Hello simon
I am trying to apply for my green card. I entered the usa as the dv lottery winner. I have a question that
I will apply for the green card within this month but if the administrative processing causes a delay in the issuance, do i have to return to my home country after my one year legal residency expires on passport?
February 14, 2026 at 12:36
Actually greencards are being received by people so it seems the delays have been removed. However, NO you would not have to leave at 1 year – your status is LPR, so if they did not send you the GC you could get proof of your status to allow travel etc from USCIS.
February 14, 2026 at 12:21
hello brit!
I have entered into the states as a dv lottery winner 2026 and i am trying to apply for the green card! Do i have to fill up I 148 form to apply for green card or should i simply pay for the fees to apply for the green card?
February 14, 2026 at 12:27
You just pay the fee.
February 14, 2026 at 02:24
Hi Simon, my girlfriend is Togolese, and I’m considering bringing her to the United States on a K-1 fiancé visa. Given the current restrictions affecting Togo, would she still be eligible to obtain a visa? Also, is there a bond requirement for a fiancée visa?
February 14, 2026 at 12:30
I only discuss DV lottery.
February 11, 2026 at 06:18
Hello Mr Simon
Related to the post from Delta on February 9th about Green Cards being mailed , I also received a notification from USCIS (Case Status Online) saying:
“We ordered your card to be produced. We will mail your card to the address you gave us.”
I got this notification just 2 weeks after my entry into the U.S.
I think this suggests/confirms that for all approved cases, the Green Card production and delivery process is working as normal as has not been affected by the pauses.
Regards
February 11, 2026 at 11:58
Me too. Entered 24 Dec. Card produced status 30 January. Card mailed status 7 February. Card in my hand 10 February.
February 11, 2026 at 15:09
Hello keatingmatt1
May I ask you if you have also received the Social Security Number by mail?
Regards
February 11, 2026 at 17:12
Yeah that arrived about 2 weeks after I entered.
February 11, 2026 at 03:36
Dear Brit,
As of today, February 11, 2026, do you think the duration of the two DV pauses is reaching a critical stage?
I am becoming increasingly concerned about the time passing and the possible impact on our cases. I would really appreciate your honest opinion on whether the situation is now becoming critical.
Thank you for your guidance.
February 12, 2026 at 09:00
I think by “critical stage” you mean is unrepairable damage being done.
Basically no – that “stage” would not be hit for months – assuming interviews continue to be held.
February 12, 2026 at 13:30
As a DV2026 selectee affected by the two pauses, do you think joining a lawsuit is necessary, or is there still a reasonable chance without joining?
February 12, 2026 at 20:26
I believe the pauses will be removed before the end of the year, but ultimately it is up to you to decide.
February 10, 2026 at 20:52
I am a Diversity Visa (DV) lottery winner for 2026, and I have already entered the United States. However, I have not yet submitted my application for a Green Card. Am I eligible to apply for my Green Card from within the United States?”
Follow-up Concerns:
“If I apply now, will there be a delay in the issuance of my Green Card?”
“Is USCIS still processing and issuing Green Cards for DV-2026 winners?”
February 12, 2026 at 08:58
1. Yes there is a pause – although it is only issuance, not processing, that is affected.
2. See 1
February 12, 2026 at 12:13
Hey bro, You from Nepal? Trying to do AOS? Let’s get connected!
February 14, 2026 at 15:50
yes we can could you please provide me your ig
February 10, 2026 at 19:54
I can’t remember if I asked you this before, I am doing a schoolwork/assignment with regards to this Visa and the history of it because of a essay. Trying to see the pros and cons with immigration to the USA. I have found some of your videos very helpful, specially those with details of people coming to the USA per country. Might as well be some other folks that actually asked you here from our school. Anyway… do you possibly know if the USCIS or the USA government in general/DOS, save the DV lottery data? Or if they delete it after a certain period of time, for example after the fiscal year goes out and so on and on? Some folks that I’ve asked on various forums tell me that it gets saved forever/permanently?
February 10, 2026 at 20:41
It is saved, either forever or at least a long time. The government have made clear the data is useful to them for security purposes.
February 10, 2026 at 13:35
Dear Mr. Simon,
I wanted to ask whether there is still any hope for DV-2026 selectees who, for financial or practical reasons, are unable to join a lawsuit challenging the visa pauses.
If a lawsuit is successful, could non-plaintiffs also benefit in any way?
Thank you for your time and guidance.
February 10, 2026 at 15:40
Yes that is a possible outcome.
February 10, 2026 at 11:30
Hi Simon, I’m scheduled and recently had a change in my martial status.
I completed my previously unlocked DS-260 adding my spouse but I didn’t have any button to add her own DS-260.
I’ve contacted the embassy by mail requesting them to add her own section in my application but they haven’t replied yet.
It’s been a week and the interview is in about 3 weeks.
Our medical is in few days, what should I do?
February 10, 2026 at 12:33
You will have to discuss with the embassy.
February 10, 2026 at 14:35
Thanks for the response.
Is emailing them every few days until they reply the right move or will it annoy them?
I waited a full week to reply, not sure If I should start replying more frequently since the interview is coming up soon.
Or perhaps I should just wait for response to come and in the worst case scenario if It doesn’t then just attend he interview alone and continue from there?
February 10, 2026 at 15:41
You can try emailing again.
February 10, 2026 at 02:03
Hey brit! I just recenty entered the us through dv winner 2026 visa and i thought i had applied for the green card but i havenot apparently! And amid these dv processing pause can i apply for my green card in the us ? will there be any problems?
February 10, 2026 at 09:29
I don’t understand what you didn’t do. The GC is automatically ordered after your entry to the USA (assuming you poaid the fee). GCs are being sent out during the pause.
February 10, 2026 at 09:46
Apparently i had not paid the fee so can i apply for it now after entering the us? Is the uscis still processing green cards applications after entering the us?
February 10, 2026 at 10:02
Yes and yes
February 10, 2026 at 10:09
Omg thank you so much simon! You are literally the angel for me for helping out with my doubts! i can finally feel relieved! Keep up your good work!
February 9, 2026 at 17:31
Hi Simon, not a question but an info post. I asked on here a few weeks back if the physical green card production is also paused due to DV suspension. I am happy to say that I have received my physical card in the mail today. Took just shy of 2 months from entry date to get card in hands. Just wanted to put this out there in case other people have the same question.
February 9, 2026 at 17:45
Thanks!
February 11, 2026 at 11:59
Me too. Entered 24 Dec. Card produced status 30 January. Card mailed status 7 February. Card in my hand 10 February.
February 10, 2026 at 14:29
Hello Mr Simon
Related to this post from Delta, I also received a notification from USCIS (Case Status Online) saying:
“We ordered your card to be produced. We will mail your card to the address you gave us.”
I got this notification just 2 weeks after my entry into the U.S. I think this suggests that for all approved cases, the Green Card production and delivery process is working as normal as has not been affected by the pauses.
February 9, 2026 at 16:34
Hi Simon, can you pls tel us the difference between mandamus by Immpact and Group lawsuit by Red Eagle? It looks they attach different issues as I read their FAQ, Which one do you think (based on your experience) can be faster to obtain the favorable result for us?
February 9, 2026 at 17:45
I have reached out to Immpact to get clarification. Patience…
February 9, 2026 at 18:17
Hello! I hope you are doing well. Impact litigation doesn’t include AOS cases, right? Thank you for your support and advice
February 9, 2026 at 18:20
I don’t know yet.
February 9, 2026 at 16:34
Hey Simon,
I’m only affected by the general DV security review pause, and my interview is in about two weeks. If you were in my position, would you choose IMMPACT litigation or Red Eagle Law?
I hope it’s okay to ask you this question. I understand it’s ultimately my decision.
Thanks!
February 9, 2026 at 17:46
Let’s wait until we can clarify the lawsuits. The Immpact one was just published a few hours ago.
February 15, 2026 at 17:18
Hi Simon,
Any recommendation? I’m a bit confused about IMMPACT, since they don’t seem to mention specifically challenging the general DV pause.
Thanks!
February 15, 2026 at 17:53
First recommendation is to wait until after the VB is released and then watch my other videos I will post over the coming days. Then you can choose which lawsuit, if any, to be on.
February 16, 2026 at 06:39
Great, thanks!!
February 9, 2026 at 09:43
Hello Simon, i want to ask about when VB become current and my case was already ” ready for interview ” is that means may case will get 2nl interview, or they will pass me an send 2nls randomly.
February 9, 2026 at 15:43
2NLs are not sent “randomly”. They are sent to cases that are ready for scheduling, where the embassy has capacity, and in case number order within each batch of cases
February 8, 2026 at 15:09
Hi Brit,
In your opinion, is IMMPACT Litigation considered more reputable or prestigious than Red Eagle Law for DV-related lawsuits, or does the choice of firm not significantly affect the chances of success?
Thank you.
February 8, 2026 at 15:18
Immpact have more experience than REL – but for this case, a win should be achievable by any lawfirm.
February 9, 2026 at 05:47
I understand that financially the risk may be higher with Impact, but I am willing to invest more if it truly gives me a better chance.Do you think Immpact’s experience could provide a higher chance of success in my situation regarding the two suspensions?
February 9, 2026 at 15:41
That is a completely unanswerable question.
February 10, 2026 at 01:59
Hello Simon,
Today I went to a service center to apply for joining one of the lawsuits. They told me that if I apply, I will not gain anything and will only lose money, and they even refused to complete the application for me.
I am very confused by this situation and I would really appreciate your honest opinion. Do you think joining the lawsuit could still be helpful for DV-2026 applicants like me, or do you believe it is not worth the cost?
Thank you very much for your guidance.
February 10, 2026 at 09:27
Why are you in such a hurry. Wait.
February 10, 2026 at 09:42
As I understand, the lawsuit related to the 75-country ban, which also includes Albania, has a deadline of February 13. Because of this approaching deadline, I am trying to decide quickly what to do.
February 10, 2026 at 06:58
I would like to inform you that I am not familiar with the process of applying to these lawsuits, and I am also unsure which case I should join. Unfortunately, I have not been able to find anyone locally who can assist me with completing the application.
Would it be possible for you or your team to help me complete the application process on my behalf if I provide the required payment? I can send the necessary documents and transfer the fees as instructed.
February 10, 2026 at 09:30
No I don’t offer any form filling service…
February 9, 2026 at 14:09
Hi, I just noticed that they already published thier lawsuit info, however the cost of participation is a lot lower than REL.
February 7, 2026 at 21:20
Hi Brit Simon
Great job you doing with the insights .
My wife won the dv 26
Well we have been married but haven’t been issued with the certificate yet due to timeliness with processing.
Apparently I got a job abroad and now the challenge werevhavjng is how to proceed with filling the ds260 forms as I have to be there for physical appearance at the Attorney general’s office for signage.
We have applied for a special licence certificate which vould take a shorter time to produce but the challenge is the timing with submissions and scheduling for interviews respectively
Should we just complete the forms without the certificates?
If yes what should we give as the reason forbnot uploading the certificate yet bearing in mind we’re going to have it once I get back home?
Thank you
Regards
Gil
February 8, 2026 at 09:11
You are not required to upload a document to submit the DS260
February 7, 2026 at 09:12
Hello, on form 260 an out of age derivative shows under Status heading ‘accompany’, and under Application heading ‘Start now’. How would I get this person removed or do I even need to as I as I said they are not immigrating on the main form.
Thank you
February 7, 2026 at 10:33
That cannot be removed, so just leave it as is.
February 7, 2026 at 00:23
Hello Simon,
I hope you are doing well. I have a question regarding a recent letter I received about confirming my interview location.
When I submitted my Diversity Visa application, the system automatically assigned Warsaw as my interview location, since I was physically in Poland at that time. However, when I completed the DS-260 form, I was already in Canada, but the system still prefilled Warsaw.
Now, I have received a letter stating that if I do not confirm my status in Poland, my case will be transferred to Kyiv.
I would like your advice on this matter. I have a high case number, and I have heard that the Montreal consulate has significant visa delays. In your opinion, would it be better to submit documents confirming my stay in Canada (open work permit), or should I try to confirm my Polish status, even though I only have temporary protection there?
Thank you very much for your guidance.
February 7, 2026 at 10:43
The question is really about which embassy will give the best chance. I can’t be sure, because we don’t have good data this year, so it’s a decision you have to make for yourself.
February 9, 2026 at 14:14
Hi Oleh,
Just mentioning I just had my appointment late January in Montreal. I have a case number is Asia, 14xx , not sure if this will help you but thought I would let you know.
I submitted my ds260 as soon as I found out I won in May.
When they emailed me asking about proof of residency .. I received the appointment a couple of days after I sent them proof.
Hope this helps..
February 6, 2026 at 09:42
Hi Simon, My case number is EU356xx. I’m a Lithuanian citizen currently living in Lithuania. Our embassy in Vilnius stopped processing immigrant visas around November 2024, and Lithuanian cases are now assigned to Stockholm instead. However, when I filled out my DS-260, I selected Vilnius as my embassy since it was the default option. I assumed they would automatically transfer my case to Stockholm.
Today, I received an email from KCC, and I’m confused about why they’re asking me to prove my legal residence in Lithuania. Their warning that my case will remain in Vilnius doesn’t make sense, as I mentioned, that embassy no longer processes immigrant visas.
Also, does receiving this letter mean my DS-260 was recently processed, or are they planning to make my number current in the coming months?
Here’s the letter:
Greetings,
We are unable to process your request to reassign your case to the U.S. Embassy Consulate General in VILNIUS without more information. To reassign your case, you must establish that you are legally resident in the requested country by providing evidence that could include:
-Copy of a legal permanent resident card, landing paper, or similar document
-Other document(s) that establish your legal residency
Failure to respond or to establish you qualify for a change of interview location will result in your case remaining at VILNIUS, which our records show is your country of nationality.
February 6, 2026 at 10:02
It should be very simple to provide the proof they need – so why not just do that (even though their request seems dopey).
This contact isn’t proof that you will be current soon, or that your DS260 is processed.
February 6, 2026 at 06:13
Hi Brit,
I wanted to ask if there is any other law firm currently preparing or considering a lawsuit regarding the two pauses, which you believe might be more promising or stronger than the one led by Curtis Morrison.
Thank you.
February 6, 2026 at 08:49
I understand Immpact will be launching a case this coming week.
https://www.immpactlitigation.com/category/onboarding-cases/
February 6, 2026 at 12:42
Do yo think that one is better? Can someone join more than one lawsuit?
February 6, 2026 at 13:24
You should only be in one lawsuit. The terms are not.published yet so I cant comment on which is better.
February 6, 2026 at 16:27
Hi Brit,
I’m not sure how to proceed and which lawsuit to join. From what I understand, this law firm is challenging only the pause affecting the 75 countries, while Curtis is challenging both pauses.
Based on your experience, which option do you think makes more sense in my situation?
Thank you.
February 6, 2026 at 16:51
Immpact litigation have not released any information about their DV lottery lawsuit yet. So wait.
February 6, 2026 at 02:21
Hi simon,
I hope you are doing well, and thank you very much for all the guidance you provide to DV selectees.
I am a DV-2026 selectee from the Asia region with a low case number. I already attended my interview, and the consular officer told me that my case was approved but that the visa could not be issued due to the current visa issuance pause.
I was given a pink 221(g) refusal sheet stating that the visa cannot be issued at this time. No documents were requested, no concerns were raised about my eligibility, and the officer explained that the refusal was procedural, related only to the pause. They kept my 5×5 visa photos but returned my passport.
Based on your experience, does a pink 221(g) issued specifically because of a visa issuance pause usually indicate that the case will move forward once issuance resumes, assuming no other issues exist? Is there anything I should be doing proactively while waiting, or is it simply a matter of time?
I understand you cannot provide case-specific legal advice, but I would greatly appreciate your general insight on this situation.
Thank you very much for your time and for all that you do for the DV community.
Kind regards,
chan
February 6, 2026 at 08:48
You can’t be 100% certain based on the color of the sheet you were given. Some people believed they were approved in the interview, and then later were put on 221g for further checks.
However, that would be a minority of cases – most cases will be issued once the pause is lifted.
February 13, 2026 at 19:59
Hi Simon ,
After participating in the U.S. Diversity Visa (green card) lottery every year since 2012, my brother and I have unfortunately never been selected. We completely lost hope in winning through that route. Even now, with erratic policies under the current administration, it feels like the lottery path has become even more uncertain or limited.At this point, the only realistic immigration option left for us to move to the United States seems to be the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Visa (the investment-based green card program).We are currently run an e-commerce business. By around 2031, we project having accumulated approximately $3.5 million in total assets/liquidity through our operations. Our plan is to allocate about $1.6 million specifically for the EB-5 investment (covering both of us, possibly through a family or joint structure if allowed, or separately if needed). This would secure permanent residency (green card) for us, and eventually U.S. citizenship after the required period.I want to be very clear on one important point: We are not looking to move to America for a regular job, stability, or a comfortable routine life. Our true motivation is much bigger — it’s the dream of one day seeing my name (and my brother’s) featured in Forbes magazine, among the richest or most influential people in America. That is the real driving force behind everything we are building and planning.Additionally, both my brother and I are unmarried and plan to start families in the future. I have personally suffered from poverty, injustice, and lack of opportunities in my home country, and I simply do not want to raise my future children in the same environment that caused me so much hardship. I want to give them the chance to grow up in America, with better prospects and freedom.We are waiting for the current administration to end — specifically after Donald Trump leaves office on January 20, 2029. A few months before that (likely in mid-to-late 2028), we plan to start the EB-5 process seriously with an experienced immigration attorney, perhaps someone like Curtis Morrison, who has a strong reputation in federal immigration litigation and has been involved in EB-5-related matters.Believe me, Simon, one of the most dangerous things that can happen to anyone in this world is to be born in a country on the African continent. You are either born under a dictator who “protects” you in name only, or in a closed, state-controlled economy where the government dominates everything and opportunities are stifled. For me, emigrating from Africa is not just a choice — it is essential.By 2031, I will be about 39 years old, and my younger brother will be around 28. With the remaining capital (after the EB-5 investment), we intend to invest heavily in U.S. real estate or other income-generating assets to build steady monthly cash flow and grow our wealth further.One thing that weighs on me a lot: Do you think 39 years old is still considered “young” enough to realistically achieve the full American Dream — especially our shared goal of becoming among the wealthiest individuals in America one day? I personally feel like 39 is already quite late to start this journey and build massive wealth in the U.S., but maybe I’m being too hard on myself.I would really value your honest opinion and any advice you might have on this plan, the EB-5 process in the current and future environment, timing considerations, recommended attorneys, or whether starting at that age still leaves room for big success.Thank you so much in advance for your time and insights — it means a lot to hear from someone with your perspective.
February 14, 2026 at 12:30
I don’t talk about aby other immigration paths other than DV lottery – but your age is not a problem. I did not emigrate here until age 50. Wealth building is easier for most in the USA than anywhere else – so get it done!