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April 9, 2026 at 10:37
Hi Mr. Simon, We initially thought the pause would be temporary, lasting at most 2–3 months. However, lawsuits have now been filed, and we haven’t seen any action from the government to voluntarily lift the pause. This raises concerns about possible bad faith behind the scenes. Is it really possible for the government to maintain the pause until the very last minute? If so, on what basis? Thank you for sharing your thoughts and experiences on this matter.
April 9, 2026 at 13:42
I’m sure we would all like a clear answer on this – but we have to wait and see. I personally don’t believe it will continue to the end of the fiscal year – but only time will tell.
April 9, 2026 at 08:56
Hi Simon! I am an Australian DV-2026 winner and my number is now current.
I’m told that even when I get the consulate appointment in Australia I won’t be given the Greencard after the meeting as they are paused. Is this true? I’m currently living in American on an E3 so going home for the interview and NOT being given the greencard is a risk.
April 9, 2026 at 09:07
Yes, there is a pause on DV cases right now. There are lawsuits trying to attack the pauses, and the government might remove the pauses, but we have to wait and see.
April 8, 2026 at 07:57
Hi Simon,
I saw in a reddit group a post with a photo of a visa issued on 7 April 2026, in North Macedonia, by a Turkish citizen. Turkey is not included in the 75 countries pause.
Would that mean dv pause is lifted??
The link to the reddit i saw: https://www.reddit.com/r/i130_75CountryPause/s/YSaxMQC2iU
April 8, 2026 at 08:15
Yep, the visa issued is legit. Simon spoke about it as well, but we’re not certain what’s going on because, as of now, the government has not said anything.
April 8, 2026 at 10:35
I’m aware of that case. The most likely scenario is that the CO made a mistake, but we will see what happens over the next few days.
April 7, 2026 at 21:26
Hi Simon,
My DV lottery number is 27xxx but I hear US embassy in Ankara has a very slow processing although my case is not current yet (I suppose it will be current around summer) is it possible for me to mail KCC and move my case to a place with faster processing may be Warsaw?
April 8, 2026 at 10:09
In general KCC are not cooperative with changing to embassies to countries where you do not reside. However Ankara are doing MUCH better this year, so you probably don’t need to worry.
April 8, 2026 at 11:18
Ok well I submitted DS-260 very early on, but after going through some comments I thought my case number was hopeless. I guess we’ll see. Perhaps this year may be faster. Thanks.
April 7, 2026 at 13:20
Hello Mr Simon
In the stream that red eagle had with Curtis Morrison you commented about a DV applicant in North Macedonia getting approved, can you share more details about it if you have more info please couldn’t see any posting online or in the channels.
Thank you!
April 7, 2026 at 13:51
https://x.com/BritSimonSays/status/2041565562749510034?s=20
April 7, 2026 at 09:08
Hi Simon, I just have a question regarding social medias.
Is there a new rule that requires people to put their social medias in public prior to the interview ?
What if we declared a social media on our ds260 that is now suppressed ?
Thank you !
April 7, 2026 at 17:56
That rule doesn’t apply to immigrant visas.
April 6, 2026 at 17:19
Hi Simon,
We have spoken previously about submitting the DS-260 late and I have decided to take a risk and wait until this month’s VB is published. My questions are firstly do we have any data regarding how long DS-260 submissions are taking to be processed? Then secondly, I would be at the London embassy which according to other people’s comments seems to be a bit backlogged this year and on your new tracker someone at 14k is only receiving their interview this month, would you have any idea what’s causing the backlog and would this likely have a big impact for higher CN ranges (I am EU39K). Thanks.
April 6, 2026 at 17:31
The tracker has some info showing how long DS260 processing is taking. At this time of year it *should be* fast BUT – we don’t know what staffing impacts will have happened at KCC or related agencies. That is why I am “nervous” about DS260 processing timeline. Hopefully it will be fast – so you might be cursing later that you could have waited longer to file – but what ya gonna do – you have to take the lowest risk.
Regarding London backlog, the tracker doesn’t have enough cases to be certain 14k is the backlog. There could easily be higher cases we don’t know of…
April 6, 2026 at 11:06
Hello Simon
I just received my 2nl few days ago and I have my interview in Mumbai, India.
Can you please tell if I have to complete my biometrics before the interview and how do I schedule it.
And what else do I have to do before my interview.
April 6, 2026 at 11:41
No biometrics before the interview, but you do have to have the medical (which you arrange with their choice of physician). You also have to get prepared with all the documents you might need.
This involves thoroughly reading the instructions. Please start there.
April 8, 2026 at 10:43
It’s say on the website follow visa interview instructions as per the consulate.
As my interview is in Mumbai the website says biometric before the interview but does not specify kcc or dv members
Can you once again check and reply
Thank you
April 8, 2026 at 10:53
My reply hasn’t changed.
April 6, 2026 at 07:07
Hi Brit,
I hope you are doing well.
I contacted KCC about my DV2026 case, and they replied that my case number is now current for interview processing and ready to be scheduled. However, I have not received my 2NL yet.
Do you think it is a problem that I still haven’t been scheduled for an interview, even though my case is current?
Thank you very much for your help.
April 6, 2026 at 11:08
There are MANY cases in exactly this same position. The problem is one of embassy capacity – but we don’t have good data on all the embassies. That is why I created the tracker https://britsimonsays.com/DVtracker/index.html
April 5, 2026 at 11:00
I am writing to respectfully inform you of an error in my Diversity Visa application regarding my dependent information.
In my initial submission, I mistakenly selected “No” when asked whether I would be taking my 5-year-old daughter with me. However, I have already completed and submitted a DS-260 form for my child, as I intend for her to accompany me and my husband.
As my interview is scheduled for 18 May 2026, I would like to kindly seek your guidance on how to correct this information and ensure that my child can be included in my case.
Thank you very much for your time and assistance.
April 5, 2026 at 11:39
Let’s just be clear what you mean by “initial submission”. That could mean the initial entry to the lottery, OR the first time you completed the DS260.
If you left the child off the initial entry, you will be disqualified.
However, if you simply left the child off the DS260 – that is not a problem and you can proceed as normal.
April 8, 2026 at 07:44
By initial submission I mean while filling the DS260 form, I mistakenly selected “No” when asked if my child would accompany me to the United States. However, I selected “Yes” to indicate that my child would immigrate at a later date.
I would like to clarify that I intend for my child to accompany me and my husband to the United States. I have already submitted a DS-260 form for my child as well.
please advise me on the appropriate steps to resolve this issue, as my interview is scheduled on 18 May 2026.
Thank you very much for your time and assistance.
April 8, 2026 at 10:11
You don’t need to do anything else.
April 8, 2026 at 21:41
I just wanted to clarify something to make sure I have understood correctly. In both mine and my husband’s DS260 it was selected “NO” when asked if I would be taking my daughter with me. However, I have already completed and submitted a DS-260 form for her, as I do intend for her to accompany me and my husband.
Based on your advice that no further action is needed, does this mean it is fine that I selected “No” in that section? Also, it is ok to take my daughter with me and my husband to the interview and explain that this was a mistake, given that her DS-260 has already been submitted?
I would appreciate your confirmation so I can proceed correctly.
April 9, 2026 at 09:03
It isn’t a problem. Just go to the interview together. I had already explained that.
April 5, 2026 at 08:08
Hi Simon,
Can I, as DV26 selectee register to DV27 even if I’m already scheduled/interviewed?
I’m asking so I know wether it is okay to register in case I don’t get the visa by then (because of the DV pause)
April 5, 2026 at 10:13
Yes, no problem.
April 4, 2026 at 19:47
Hi Simon as DV lottery is going to open pretty soon . What we expect as there is chance of open DV lottery window for less than 35 days like may be 20/24 days due to less time .
April 4, 2026 at 20:37
I believe it must be 30+ days
April 4, 2026 at 07:17
Hi Simon it is almost sure that DV lottery is open for 2027 is suru. As they already announced passport rule and passport rule apply from April 10 what do you think DV lottery will open in which month . I just ask about your prediction no one can say exactly time but as your point of view.
April 4, 2026 at 08:29
I agree it will open – and I’m pretty sure we will hear something this month. Let’s wait for news.
April 3, 2026 at 17:01
Hi Simon, I applied for the DV2026 from the UK but sadly was not selected. I did keep checking back after the update when the UK seemed to be forgotten from the draw. I am looking to apply for an E-1 visa (my UK based business has over 75% international trade with the US for 12 years now). 2 questions – is the DV2027 looking likely to reopen for the UK anytime soon, and secondly, which firm did you use originally to process your visa prior to your DV win? I have been looking into Fragomen, Davies Legal and Greenwood Hanlon Kendrick attorneys so far. Thank you so much in advance! Sophie
April 4, 2026 at 00:27
Dv2027 will most likely include the UK. After my lawsuit winners from the UK were added for dv25 an dv26. The formula that calculates which countries are eligible should all the UK to remain eligible for some years.
As for lawyers, I would recommend Jesse Bless of Bless Litigation.
April 3, 2026 at 05:19
Hello Mr. Simon,
We have interview on May 5th in Belgrade/Serbia, we are turkish citizens but living lawfully in Belgrade, I know we need police certificates from both Turkey and Serbia but also we had lived in Montenegro with my wife last year around 9 months and we don’t have police certificates from there and we simply can’t go there to obtain it, is this a major problem? Thank you.
April 3, 2026 at 08:57
Hello Burak. I am also one of the selected applicants from Serbia, and I am currently waiting for my 2NL for the interview in Belgrade. Would you be kind enough to tell me approximately what your case number is and when you received your 2NL?
Thank you and good luck!
April 3, 2026 at 10:16
Hey, we actually didn’t know we were current until we mailed kcc about re-opening our ds-260 to add a spouse and they just told us our case is in belgrade embassy and we are current, so we got that mail in March and our case number is EU12xxx. Good luck!
April 3, 2026 at 10:26
Also if you share your contact info we can get in contact for your other questions and I’d be willing to help you out.
April 3, 2026 at 11:24
Hello Burak
You mentioned that you realized your case was at the embassy after receiving a reply from KCC. I have two questions:
When you checked CEAC before that, didn’t it already show that your case was at the embassy?
After you received the email reply from KCC, did you then receive your 2NL?
Thank you!
April 3, 2026 at 12:26
It was after the reply mail from kcc. We added the spouse by contacting belgrade embassy by mail and completed ds260 and sometime after that we got the 2NL. The reason for this might be us carrying the case first to thailand from Ankara and then carrying again to Belgrade where we lawfully reside.
April 3, 2026 at 09:32
Well it seems you have not read the instructins. You absolutely MUST read the instructions!
If you check the instructions, you will see that the police certificate is required once you have been in a country for 12 months in the circumstances you describe.
However, also the instructions would have led you to the reciprocity page for Montenegro, which explains how to obtain the police cert.
So – if you are concerned that you still might need a police cert if you can’t clearly show the period of time you were there was less than 12 months, you can obtain the police cert remotely.
April 3, 2026 at 10:17
Do you think the stamps in our passports is adequate to show it was shorter than 12 months? Thanks for your attention and help.
April 3, 2026 at 12:16
I don’t know what stamps you might have…
April 5, 2026 at 13:14
The stamps I got on my passport when I enter Montenegro and left Montenegro with dates on them.
April 5, 2026 at 15:42
OK – so if that proves 9 months you should not need the police cert.
April 2, 2026 at 08:05
Hi Simon,
Thank you for the work you do here.
My case has gone live in April and my documents are processed at kcc. I have today attained citizenship in my country of residence.
Would you unlock the ds-260 at this late stage, or given how close it is to interview update the consular officer at the embassy. If I do the latter is this cause for denial?
Thanks,
James
April 2, 2026 at 10:15
No need to unlock for that. You can raise it at the interview.
April 2, 2026 at 03:03
We thought the DV-2026 pauses would be lifted when they were still kids… but they grew into teenagers, then adults, and now they’re almost ready to retire 😂
April 2, 2026 at 04:55
You thinks it’s over (+75 countries pause)? – especiallys if one didn’t join any lawsuit?
April 1, 2026 at 16:51
Hey Simon,
I watched your two recent lives where questions were asked about traveling/ applying for a student visa when they have also entered the lottery. In response to these questions you said they should have no issues with this as entering the lottery is not declaring immigrant intent. It is when you submit the Ds260 form that you do this.
I am going over to the states for a couple of weeks in July for a holiday and am a little bit nervous that I am going to face some issues now coming into the country. I have won the lottery for 26 (Oc) submitted my ds260 and had it processed. It is very much just a holiday to visit some friends that I am going there for and there are no red flags that should stand out for them ( job back home, return flights, and ties to my country) but given then states of everything, is it wise to go over or if there the possibility of issues?
I know this is somewhat outside of the scope questions but any advice around is greatly appreciated!
April 1, 2026 at 23:08
You have no reason to worry.
April 1, 2026 at 08:11
Hi Simon,
USCIS just published an update on Strengthened screening and vetting process https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/update-on-uscis-strengthened-screening-and-vetting
Could this be an indication that policy review processes are possibly being concluded?
April 1, 2026 at 09:10
Yes – I saw that as a positive update since they say they have done “some things” – so that might mean they can begin to remove the pauses. However, we have to wait and see….
April 1, 2026 at 06:58
Hello Simon, I have written to the KCC twice asking if my DS-260 has been processed yet, but I haven’t received a response. Is this normal, or should I be worried? My case is not current yet
April 1, 2026 at 09:08
No it’s not normal for them to ignore such a request. However, that doesn’t mean you should worry. Are you sure you gave the name, FULL case number and the DOB?
April 1, 2026 at 09:19
I’ve sent the full case number, name, and DOB (MM/DD/YYYY). I sent another email today, but this whole situation feels odd
April 1, 2026 at 13:40
How long ago were the first emails?
April 2, 2026 at 20:26
Approximately one month ago
April 1, 2026 at 04:09
Hi Brit,
Greetings,I want to get clarification from my brothers question and your genuine answer for us who get stack at Accra embassy Ghana.Is it game over for us here for DV2026 or it’s there still hope ?
Thank you
April 1, 2026 at 09:06
Well until September 30th, there is some hope, but every month that passes is capacity lost – that means less people could be interviewed.
March 31, 2026 at 12:48
What documents would you recommend to accompany the I-134 for a retiree? What I mean is that my sponsor is a retired U.S. citizen who receives a fairly high pension, and I’m not sure which documents to show along with the I-134.
Besides the Photo ID, would the 1040 be enough? Do I also need to show their 1099? Anything else besides these 3 things, like bank statements?
I’d like to ask him for as few documents as possible, since he’s a distant relative and I don’t want to cause him any trouble.
Best regards.
March 31, 2026 at 15:09
The 1040 should be enough (along with photo ID).
April 5, 2026 at 11:51
That is 1040?
March 31, 2026 at 11:49
Hi Simon,
Mr. WhiteAfro here.
Looking at the historic poor performance of the Accra embassy, would you advise DV applicants who intend on attending school after arriving in the USA to consider applying to the schools and using that as means to enter the USA and then later applying for status adjustment.
Also, what differences are there between visa processing times for a given case if it were to go through consular processing versus adjustment of status; using a mid range AF-case number and a poor performing embassy like Accra as a case study.
I would be glad if you discuss this in one of your future videos.
Thank you
March 31, 2026 at 15:08
There is no sensible comparison. We believe Accra have scheduled no cases so far this year, so they have built a backlog and probably don’t intend to try to catch up.
So – you are comparing almost NO chance with an AOS strategy that has *some* chance. AOS is obviously better therefore.
March 30, 2026 at 16:24
Hi Simon
Am reaching after being desperate about finding a solution for my wife. Will she be able to get to USA on a tourist visa meanwhile waiting for her I-130 form to be processed since I just submitted a month ago.
She’s now a retiree from Moroccan Air forces. By the way am a GC holder as my 2 kids based on DV 2024. What the you suggest a thanks for the help and the tremendous work for DV process.
March 30, 2026 at 16:57
I have no idea – I only advise on DV matters.
March 30, 2026 at 15:34
Hi Simon,
I’m writing to you again for the … time 😃
There’s a lot of talk about embassy capacity, but from what I understand—also based on a WhatsApp group we’ve created for Albania—no 2NLs have been sent for people who are current in April at the U.S. Embassy in Albania.
This makes me think they are not working at all on these cases, rather than moving forward based on capacity. Capacity should mean continuing the work, even if slowly—not a complete stop.
What do you think about this situation?
Thank you.
March 30, 2026 at 16:57
Capacity is set by the embassy. It is a number of DV interviews they are willing to take for the month. They can set that number at anything from ZERO upwards. Hope that makes the point clear.
March 31, 2026 at 07:12
Hi Shqipe! Can I also be part of the albanian group? I’m on the simons telegram group so we can contact each other there!
March 31, 2026 at 08:24
Une jam fut te grupi i Curtis Morrison ne whatsapp ka nja 46 antar
March 31, 2026 at 12:22
Aha mendova qe ish vec me shqiptar😅
March 31, 2026 at 14:11
Me Shqiptar asht
Grupi ne WhatsApp
Ask me anything group lawsuit with Red Eagle Law,L.C.
Tek
Albanian Speakers
Admin
Isabella
+17148873387
April 1, 2026 at 03:38
Si te futem?
March 30, 2026 at 14:58
Hi Simon, I’m Kenyan in Kenya case number AF33k since Nairobi embassy is slow can transfer to Rwandese embassy Kigali? That is if look for work visa in Rwanda, consider East Africa we are free move within our bonders.
March 30, 2026 at 16:55
KCC will only assign your case to the embassy for your resident address or your nationality. It is hard to get them to change otherwise.
March 30, 2026 at 11:20
I am Guinean and DV 2026 with CN 2026AF56k .
I live in Freetown since 2020.
My interview location is us Embassy Freetown.
1)I want to know if i have Luck to pass my my interview ( get 2nl)?
2)US Embassy Freetown accept to program the DV winners?
3)What is the largest CN scheduled at the US Embassy in Freetown?
Thanks you
March 30, 2026 at 14:01
Since the CEAC data can no longer give us embassy specific information I can’t answer your three questions.
March 30, 2026 at 08:30
Hey Brit,
Iam 2021 DV winner from Asia . Your blog was very helpful and we made it some how during Covid time. We came here with two kids and both me and husband were in late 30’s. After 4.5 years when looking back , iam doing a state job and our strugglings are bit over . So grateful for everything you do . Without You, Our American dream wont be possible . Iam from Sri Lanka.
March 30, 2026 at 08:50
Happy to read your message, and it seems you are doing well. Best of luck to you!
March 30, 2026 at 03:45
Hi Simon, current since February and still no 2NL for 16XXX in Paris embassy this month…
Why did they only scheduled 3 interviews in the last week in EU (not even in France) if they have such a backlog ?
I get that the VB hasn’t increased but they have hundreds of current unscheduled cases.
March 30, 2026 at 08:49
The backlogs come from the embassies not providing enough capacity. That is an embassy decision. You’ll have to remain patient for a bit longer.
March 29, 2026 at 06:07
Dear Simon, We know you don’t make predictions but ıs there any realistic possibility for europe to reach 24-25K for june interviews? or maybe July?
March 29, 2026 at 09:29
Yes. If they want to use capacity of the embassies (not that we can be sure that is what they want), then they would have to increase to at least 25k, possibly more. The thing is though – we DON’T know what they want. So they might or might not do what the math says they should do – and THAT is why I don’t like giving predictions.
March 29, 2026 at 09:50
I get it .. Since the lawsuits has filed, do you think this can be an effect on government side to push the bulletins more to high case numbers? or it is just my imagination 🙂
March 29, 2026 at 14:04
Mostly your imagination.
March 28, 2026 at 17:20
Hi Simon, I was watching the last live stream and regarding the Excel spreadsheet showing the number of appointments per region in South America, would you say it’s on track or a little behind? I have an appointment in Argentina (number 41xx)?
March 28, 2026 at 20:20
It seems OK at the moment.
March 29, 2026 at 23:05
I’m curious, when is your appointment (I’m also SA and not too far off in terms of number)
How does that work i.e appointments being made before it goes current in the bulletin?
March 28, 2026 at 11:27
May I kindly ask when we can expect the next update on the DV-2026 litigation? Also, could you please clarify what actions are currently being taken in the lawsuit for DV selectees affected by the 39-country ban?
March 28, 2026 at 16:27
There are two lawsuits – and in both cases any updates would come to you from whichever lawsuit you joined. But – don’t expect any fast resolution – because lawsuits take time.
The only action suggested for the 39 country ban was on the Immpact lawsuit – and that wasn’t attacking the ban, just the visa issuance for those banned cases.
But these questions make me question whether you are a plaintiff or not. If you are these are strange questions to ask.
March 28, 2026 at 10:40
Dear BritSimon,
I hope you’re doing well. I am planning to apply for the upcoming Diversity Visa (DV) lottery and wanted to clarify something in advance.
I was born in Moldova, but I also hold Romanian citizenship. I understand that DV eligibility is based on country of birth, and I would indicate that I was born in Moldova in my application. However, I wanted to ask whether it is possible (or advisable) to apply using my Romanian passport instead of my Moldovan passport, while still correctly stating my place of birth.
I am asking this because I saw that immigrant visa issuance is paused for nationals of certain countries (75 countries), including Moldova, with an exception for dual nationals applying with a passport from a non-listed country.
In my situation, what should I do? Should I apply with my Romanian passport or with my Moldovan passport. If I were a selectee, would I be able to proceed with visa issuance using my Romanian passport (since Romania is not on the restricted list), even though I applied with a Moldovan passport.
Thank you very much for your time and guidance.
Best regards,
March 28, 2026 at 16:23
Entry is based on your place of birth, not the passport that you use. So – use either passport – it won’t matter.
March 27, 2026 at 23:59
Hi Simon,
The 28/03 data are out and I find them quite concerning. The % of “at NVC” has absolutely not changed from 21/03 to 28/03 meaning that no interview were scheduled in the entire Europe.
I’m not looking at the dark cases % because it includes the “in transit” that went dark.
What could explain that ? In the Tracker and the comments we see that most of >14XXX cases are not scheduled yet.
Could it be a policy to stop planning interviews ?
March 28, 2026 at 09:13
EU had 3 interviews scheduled this week – bringing the total of cases scheduled in EU for May to 673. That is less than last month because the VB wasn’t increased. So – the low scheduling was expected.
March 27, 2026 at 20:34
Hi Simon,
Thank you for all the guidance you provide on your blog—it has been incredibly helpful throughout our DV journey.
I wanted to ask for your advice regarding maintaining our LPR status. We received our DV immigrant visas in December and completed a week long activation trip to the U.S. in the first week of March 2026. We have since returned to our country of residence to wrap up our affairs.
My concern relates to the duration of our stay outside the U.S. My husband has an employment contract that ends in February 2027, and we also want our child to complete the current academic year. Based on this, our final move to the U.S. would likely be around March 2027, meaning an absence of approximately 11–12 months from our initial entry.
I understand from your FAQs that absences approaching one year can be problematic for LPRs. However, in our case:
The stay abroad is temporary and tied to completing an existing job contract and schooling
We plan to make a short visit to the U.S. (2–3 weeks) during the summer to establish further ties (bank account, housing research, job search, etc.)
We have already received our Social Security Numbers and are taking steps to prepare for permanent relocation.
Given these circumstances, would a 11–12 month absence (with a short visit in between) generally be considered reasonable, or could this still put our LPR status at risk?
Would you recommend adjusting our timeline to remain under six months, or do you think our current plan is acceptable with proper documentation and intent?
Thank you again for your time and support—I truly appreciate your guidance.
Best regards,
March 27, 2026 at 21:32
Given the behavior of the current administration, 6 months is a lot safer. While under 12 months is technically OK, it would seem that a little replanning could achieve the 6 month goal pretty easily. That would remove the risk/stress.
March 27, 2026 at 11:29
How would you assess the current Curtis Lawsit situation if Judge Amir Ali is presiding? Do you think there is a high chance of a PR decision in May or June? Has there been anything so far that would argue against that outcome?
March 27, 2026 at 18:35
It’s early days. Nothing has happened that changes anything…
March 27, 2026 at 10:30
Hi Simon,
I currently have a service passport, which I used to attend the interview, but it may be canceled in a few months and I will get a new regular passport. Is it possible to make changes to my passport details after I attended the interview? Should I contact the embassy to do so?
March 27, 2026 at 18:36
Yes you could contact the embassy to discuss.
March 27, 2026 at 09:52
Hello Simon,
Based on your experience with past DV litigation (especially DV-2020), when do you realistically expect a decision on the preliminary injunction in the current DV-2026 cases?
Also, for applicants like me who already had an approved and issued visa that was later cancelled without prejudice but are not part of any lawsuit what do you think are the practical chances of still receiving relief if the court orders resumption or partial relief?
Trying to understand the situation from a realistic and timing perspective.
Thank you.
March 27, 2026 at 18:37
There are so many ways this could go – it’s not really possible to make predictions. Let’s just be patient and let things play out.
March 26, 2026 at 23:53
Dear Mr Simon
We had our interview early December before pauses and our case wasn’t approved by then cause we had a newborn. We submitted her DS260 and we were waiting for the embassy to tell us how to proceed with her medical assessment tough yesterday we got email telling us to go to embassy to collect our passports cause they kept our passports during interview.
Is this normal????
March 27, 2026 at 18:34
Well – not “normal” – but we are in abnormal times…
March 25, 2026 at 15:55
Hi Simon,
I hope you are well.
I have a question regarding moving my file from Sydney to Ankara.
I am a Turkish citizen, I have been residing in Australia as an international student on a student visa, and I attended my interview at the Sydney Consulate in February because I thought the pause wouldn’t last this long.
However, I am going to graduate in June and my Australian visa will expire in July, which means that I can no longer remain in Australia to get my visa if the pause if lifted after July.
May I ask you if it is still possible for me to move my case to the Ankara Consulate at this post-interview stage and what are the steps I need to take to do so?
I look forward to your guidance.
Thank you.
March 26, 2026 at 08:59
Since you have been interviewed in Sydney all your interaction is with Sydney. If the pause were to last beyond the date you leave, then you would have to mail the visa back to the embassy for the visa to be stamped when the pause is lifted. Hopefully the pause will be lifted before that is necessary.
March 26, 2026 at 10:58
The embassy told me that they won’t accept it if I mail my passport from outside Australia.
Technically, I cannot mail it to them after July as my visa will have expired and I won’t be able to remain in Australia.
In this case is there any chance I can move my case to Ankara to get my visa stamped there?
March 26, 2026 at 17:12
I don’t think so – but this is a question for Sydney embassy.
March 25, 2026 at 11:41
My case is current, but I haven’t received my interview email yet. Could this be due to pauses/slower scheduling for Albania?
March 25, 2026 at 11:55
Yes
March 25, 2026 at 13:38
Do you think the pause in sending 2NLs will continue until the visa processing suspensions are lifted, or could they resume earlier?
March 25, 2026 at 13:48
We will see.
March 25, 2026 at 14:31
When was this additional pause rule introduced? We have seen emails being sent even during pauses.
March 25, 2026 at 14:34
It isn’t an additional pause rule. Belfast is making an assumption, perhaps incorrectly, but I have explained this over and over again so I’m not sure what more I can say.
March 25, 2026 at 14:43
Sorry for the questions and assumptions, maybe even some unfounded ones, but I’m feeling a bit demoralized by the current situation. I really appreciate you and thank you so much for all the help you give.
March 26, 2026 at 08:54
I don’t mind questions – this is what the page is for, and I have answered 73 of your questions here. 73.
BUT I do find you tend to ask simple questions that should be unnecessary because I have explained this to others many times (and you could have read those answers) or that you have asked before. Just a little thought about whether the question is really needed would be nice…
March 26, 2026 at 10:55
Thank you for your patience, Brit. I apologize if some of my questions were repetitive or unnecessary. I truly appreciate the time and effort you put into helping all of us. I’ll make sure to check previous answers more carefully before asking again. Thanks again for your support!
March 25, 2026 at 00:29
Hi Simon,
I saw that Charles Kuck has filed a voluntary dismissal of our case yesterdayDo you know what that could mean? I assume they may want to add more plantiffs but does this mean the case will need to be filed all over again? The judge already asked to file the PI by March 27th
March 25, 2026 at 04:18
I think it’s because one of the plaintiffs joined the 2 lawsuits wich is not allowed in us law. so they will removed the plaintif and filed again
March 25, 2026 at 08:42
It only relates to the one plaintiff that was listed in the REL lawsuit as well as Immpact. Relax.
March 24, 2026 at 18:47
Hi Simon,
In addition to the $1 fee and the passport requirement, do you see a shortened registration window to be a plausible change in DV-27?
Do you think number of registrants in the EU region will fall in DV-27?
March 24, 2026 at 19:36
I don’t want to rule anything out about the process.
I think there may be less entries, yes.
March 24, 2026 at 06:53
Hello Simon
Based on your experience, do you think DV 2026 could still proceed? or is there any risk pause might never been lifted. Losing hope day by day.
March 24, 2026 at 08:27
I think it will proceed, yes.
March 24, 2026 at 04:38
Considering the current order of things in EU. What would have to happen for dv-2026 to reach current or a high to full case number like it did in dv-2024? Thanks.
March 24, 2026 at 08:26
Going current is meant to show that there are more visas available than remaining demand, and therefore the brakes can be removed. That isn’t the case this year, so it wouldn’t be a “normal” situation. However, in the past they have used current as a “hail Mary” to just get as many cases through as embassy capacity will allow. That is a sign of “chaos” – so we need that sort of “chaos”. It isn’t predictable…
March 23, 2026 at 14:56
Hello, Our dear uncle, I would like to thank you from the bottom of my heart for all the information you provide us with, more than anyone else, and I will get to my main point.
I watched the entire YouTube live video on March 21, 2026 and then someone asked you about IP address and about filling out DV for thousands of people with one device. and you said that if you fill out thousands of DV forms on one device, you will be blocked because of the IP address.
My first question is, what will happen to people who registered before that IP address was blocked, meaning they will also be blocked from the lottery or what …?
My second question is when we make a one-dollar payment for DV-27, it is through a Mastercard or Visa card, but even if that card makes payments to many people, that is for example thousands of people, those people can be banned from the lottery or not be selected or the card can be blocked. What will happen?
Last one, If we change IP addresses and fill DV for thousands of peoples with one device, that is 20 peoples with one IP address, then change and fill in for other 20 peoples with another IP address with the same device, so They can’t detect and block us if we follow this step and there is no way for them to know when we change our IP address ? Thanks 🙏
March 23, 2026 at 17:25
I didn’t say you WILL be blocked, I said you *might* be blocked.
In reality we don’t know exactly what they will do in various scenarios.
March 23, 2026 at 14:19
Hi Brit,
Just to inform you: some DV2026 cases in Albania (11XXX range) still haven’t received their 2NL.
March 24, 2026 at 02:57
damn its looking bad for us albanians..
March 25, 2026 at 14:35
a je dhe ti fitues i dv?
March 26, 2026 at 10:12
Po
March 23, 2026 at 11:37
Hi uncle Simon, first I hope your wife is doing good !
Quick question: I’m EU171** eligible for Paris /France and been current for 2 months know but still hasn’t got my 2NL. After the VB that made EU current for 20k I reached out to KCC and they said my case was processed and ready to be interviewed but still nothing.
Do you think some EU embassies are acting like AF ? I’m surprised I didn’t think France would / could be backlogged…
What are your thoughts on this ?
Thank you in advance and for everything that you do
March 23, 2026 at 12:19
There are two Paris cases in the tracker, one at 16XXX and the other 18XXX. Neither have a 2NL yet. So yes it seems a little backlogged, but I doubt it is as bad as AF region. I’m not sure if they have taken May 2NLs yet – but those could come out soon if they haven’t already.
Best advice is remain patient.
March 22, 2026 at 17:41
Hi Simon,
If I submitted my DS-260 next month would that be too late for it to get processed in time? High CN (EU39K, London) and I was really hoping for a firm movement in the last VB to get a better idea if my case number would have any proper chance of being reached or not but with there being no movement at all its made me very hesitant to submit especially as I am concered with my name being on file for “immigration intent” which may complicate future holidays to america. In addition, the London embassy appears to be falling behind the VB according to other commentators who are at a lower CN and yet to receive 2NL’s, so even if the VB moved if London keeps falling behind then there wouldnt be a chance anyway. So in all honestly do you think theres much of a chance for my CN range? Is a DS-260 submission required this month?
Thank you.
March 22, 2026 at 18:46
Its a risk you can consider.
On the one hand if you wait to see the next VB you might have more comfort, but it is unlikely to have certainty.
What I mean is that let’s say the next VB increases a lot. It jumps to 30K. Does that mean you are safe, no. Or if it stays at 20k, does that mean it cannot reach your number, no you couldn’t assume that either.
If the VB is published mid April, you are starting to “push your luck” for getting processed.
Honestly you may have to roll the dice blind….
March 22, 2026 at 13:10
Hello Simon,
What is the likelihood in your opinion of getting an interview with the recent US gov changes/ lawsuits with a case number EU32XXX, embassy London. Thoughts?
March 22, 2026 at 13:36
If they actually try to issue as many visas as possible, it should be OK – however – we really don’t know what they will do….
March 30, 2026 at 09:19
Hi Simon
Kigali embassy is giving back passports to those theirs were kept during interview before the pauses
@Simon isn’t this the sign that pauses ain’t going to be lifted sooner?
March 30, 2026 at 09:28
If you are looking for signs, you are free to interpret them as you wish.