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June 1, 2026 at 20:03
Hi Brit Simon,
First, thank you so much for everything you do hear. Your calm, reasonable approach to what has been a wild DV 26 has been a huge help.
I have a couple of questions.
My number is below 1850 and above 1800 for the Oceania region (Auckland Embassy) would you recommend joining one of the new lawsuits? And do you think there’s a strong chance of my number going current (it’s been 14 years of trying!)
My wife and I while vaccinated for everything have recently discovered (in preparation for a possible interview) that there isn’t physical proof of these from our childhood. Any recommendations on what we should do? My wife is expecting so she is unlikely to be able to receive some vaccinations in time for a possible interview August/September. I’ve read conflicting things about whether you can do a blood test which shows your immunity to various illnesses etc.
Hope you’re having a lovely day and thanks again for all you do here for everyone.
June 2, 2026 at 08:56
You will probably be current, and being on a lawsuit improves your chance.
Re the blood tests, the doctors won’t require anything that is unsafe. They can “assume” vaccinations from childhood programs as well as test for them. And they can waive vaccinations if absolutely necessary. Don’t worry about the jabs.
June 2, 2026 at 15:44
Thank you so much BritSimon, that’s a big relief, now to watch the VB’s!
June 1, 2026 at 19:58
Judge orders Kennedy Center to remove Trump’s name from building
hhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh
June 2, 2026 at 08:54
I know, and also the 1.8B slush fund has been retracted because the court was going to block it.
June 1, 2026 at 14:55
Hi Brit Simon we are dv26 selected eu33*** from the uk and very interested in joining immpact lawsuit. We haven’t been scheduled for interview yet as number is not current yet but we have submitted ds260 and just waiting ….would we fall into the scope for the lawsuit? Or is it for current only?
June 1, 2026 at 17:55
You can join the lawsuit, BUT you must understand that the VB number cannot be ignored by the lawsuit.
June 1, 2026 at 14:05
I believe you’ve previously suggested in live sessions that there was a last minute update to the last visa bulletin, at least in part, in reaction to the on-going lawsuits. Is there a way the new round of lawsuits can apply similar pressure to the remaining last two VB’s and how could that be communicated by REL/IL to the current administration’s lawyers?
I appreciate I could be reaching here but I guess it’s the time of the cycle to explore all opportunities…or the Hail Mary as you Yanks might say.
Thanks for the great work you do here Simon!
June 1, 2026 at 14:39
We can’t prove that theory conclusively one way or another. The lawsuits have the data I provided in my declaration, and that will probably have some effect – but we can’t assume or guess what impact, if any, it has.
June 1, 2026 at 11:45
Hi Simon, my CN is EU30xxx, I’m not yet current on the Visa Bulletin, do you still recommend me to join in the new IMMPACT lawsuit? Or only those who are already current or have already done the interview can join the lawsuit?
June 1, 2026 at 13:17
You can join either lawsuit, but if your number doesn’t become current, the lawsuit can’t help you.
June 1, 2026 at 11:12
Hi! Now that both cases are out there, class vs not and lots of confusing details..
I already went through interview, approved all documents there etc but was refused 212 g because of pause, not from any of the countries banned, based on that, please let me know your opinion, REL is the better option for me?
Thank you
June 1, 2026 at 13:16
Either lawsuit would be OK.
June 1, 2026 at 14:31
Is it true that it’s riskier with REL since it’s a class case and have a higher risk of not meeting deadline
June 1, 2026 at 14:39
Sort of, but not entirely. The lawsuit can do multiple things at once.
June 1, 2026 at 09:32
The most prosperous and advanced states are those with a large number of immigrants, like California, unlike states whose populations are dominated by the MAGA movement. Honestly, I don’t understand how they think—are they really that foolish? How can they support someone who works against them, when they are the ones who benefit most from social assistance? It’s impossible to find an immigrant who came through the U.S. Diversity Visa Lottery relying on welfare, except in cases of illness or disability. 99% of immigrants lived in poverty in their home countries due to backward economic systems, so once they get the chance to live in America, they work longer hours and improve themselves.
I hope America returns to its former role as a refuge for dreamers and immigrants after this old man leaves office on January 20, 2029. This old man, who was dragged into a losing war by Netanyahu—a war that National Security Advisor Brzezinski warned against, saying America should avoid military confrontation with Iran and China and instead rely on patience and long-term strategy. This old man caused price hikes, the collapse of many transport companies unable to bear the costs, damaged America’s reputation with allies worldwide, and inflicted suffering on millions of immigrants.
If we want this old man to leave the White House before January 20, 2029, the full Epstein files must be released, in which he is implicated. Elon Musk has already said that Trump is involved.
And finally—you’re right: California is a beautiful state, and its people are more open-minded and intelligent than the fools living in Nebraska and Arkansas. I wish the lawyers success in their mission, and I hope they win against Trump, this arrogant man.
June 1, 2026 at 05:08
Hello!
My number is not yet current. I am 25.5k EU, embassy is Madrid. I want to join lawsuit, but my worry is that I spend much money and I will not become current or that I become current and my embassy is bad.
1. Do you know if Madrid embassy is good for 25k? Do you think my worry here is silly?
2. And how much risk VB is at this point? Do you think my worry here is also silly?
It’s okay if my worries are silly, I just think it is good to have lots of information going into lawsuit.
June 1, 2026 at 10:29
Your worries aren’t “silly” – but you are probably worrying too much.
June 1, 2026 at 11:20
Okay.
1. Do you know if Madrid embassy is good embassy for 25k?
2. And how much risk VB is at this point?
June 1, 2026 at 13:16
I already answered. Nothing is certain – but you just need to wait and see.
May 31, 2026 at 22:50
Hi Simon,
Thank you for your insights on the DV pause and I am following them upto date. I have a small question about AOS.
I’m currently an F1 student residing in the US, and my priority is to file AOS if we get relief. With the new USCIS memo directing non-immigrants to consular processing, I’m concerned about whether this will affect my ability to do AOS once the pause is lifted. I didn’t pay the DV fee nor did I file the i-485 yet given that I didn’t want jeopardize my F1 visa without hope due to the pause.
Could you share any insight on how this memo might apply to DV cases like mine, or if there’s a strategy you’d recommend for F1 holders who need to adjust in the US?
Thanks again for everything you’re doing.
Best
SJM
May 31, 2026 at 23:28
It is too soon to say how the suggested policy change will affect cases (assuming the pauses are lifted). However, the government have been walking back the policy – so it seems less likely to be an issue.
May 31, 2026 at 20:20
Hi BritSimon,
I have already completed my visa interview and am currently in 221(g) administrative processing. Would a favorable ruling in this lawsuit provide any relief for applicants in my situation?
For those who are stuck in administrative processing due to the DV pause, which option would be better to join: a class action lawsuit or a mandamus lawsuit?
May 31, 2026 at 23:27
Yes a lawsuit could help. Which lawsuit – well wait until you know the details of both…
May 31, 2026 at 05:57
Hi Simon, I did my interview in February and got 221g. Do this qualify to join immpact and would you do the same? Thank you
May 31, 2026 at 08:23
Yes, and yes.
May 31, 2026 at 09:38
You have until June 19 to join. Would you wait a bit longer until like June 15 to join in case there is more news from other lawsuits or not?
May 31, 2026 at 09:56
Yes – that is exactly what I said in my live video yesterday. No need to rush.
May 31, 2026 at 02:04
Hi, Simon!
I was yesterday at your stream and I saw your response about the start of DV 2027 and Curtis challenging the pause. I did ask Curtis on a stream 10 days ago about this exact matter, as he promised to file PI. He responded, saying that he will do PI challenging DV 2027 pause but only after the relief to the plaintiffs of the main case is given as he does not want to “distract” a judge.
The full reply is at 31:07 timestamp:
https://www.youtube.com/live/Gx0NWlEe0D8?si=082slK7DA_7vyvGo&t=1867
Hopefully Curtis does not get too busy or abandons his intent.
May 31, 2026 at 08:23
Thanks for that! That is about the right level of “strategy”. The DV2027 cause of action is a “side gig”. Yes the government should do it – but we expect they will – so the focus should be on the DV2026 problems.
May 30, 2026 at 20:11
Hello Simon,
Whenever I email the embassy to follow up on my 221g AP, I notice that the Last Updated Date on the CEAC website changes. Does this mean that someone at the embassy checks their database to see whether there are any updates or news regarding my case?
Also, if I do not contact the embassy for a while, is it possible that my 221g administrative processing could be completed without the embassy noticing it, causing further delays?
Thank you for your insight.
May 30, 2026 at 23:01
The update is just your email. Doesn’t mean anything.
May 30, 2026 at 14:07
Hi Simon,
Since the interviews is not increasing in europe ; do you think the visa bulletin will be moved or could remain at 23K? Here ı have a case 24K and try to remain positive…
May 30, 2026 at 16:11
I expect an increase.
May 30, 2026 at 12:51
Hi Mr Simon, I have a question please, I had my interview on January 13 of 2026 and of course I received a 221g , my medical exam expires on June 15. I read that I need to have a new medical exam to continue the process, but I haven’t received an email ordering me to do it yet, Someone I know had the medical exam on the next day of me already received the email ordering a new medical exam, I’d like to know what to do, I don’t know if I should be worried because I didn’t receive the email from embassy, thanks 🙏
May 30, 2026 at 16:10
The embassy will probably wait until the pause is lifted to ask people to repeat their medicals.
May 30, 2026 at 07:58
May also end when will DV 2027 open ..? As your point of view
May 30, 2026 at 16:06
I don’t know the date – we just have to wait and see.
May 29, 2026 at 20:04
Hi Simon I would like to get your expert insight into the future of the Diversity Visa lottery, specifically regarding the upcoming DV-2028 program (which is expected to open for registration this October).
As we know, the Department of State (DOS) previously paused or heavily restricted certain elements of the lottery (like in DV-2027), citing technical and administrative update pecifically the implementation of the passport requirement rule and the proposed $1 entry fee.
Now that these specific technical and administrative hurdles have been resolved, addressed, or legally cleared, the administration seemingly has no further excuses to delay or halt the program. If the DOS attempts to cancel, pause, or fail to open the DV-2028 registration this October, what would the recourse look like?
Specifically, I am curious about two fronts:
The Role of the Federal Judiciary
Would the U.S. courts step in to force the Department of State to open the lottery? Since the DV lottery is a statutory mandate explicitly written into U.S. immigration law by Congress, does the DOS actually have the legal authority to just “not open” it if the previous administrative excuses are gone? Would a mandamus lawsuit be viable to compel them to initiate the registration period?
The Role of Congress
Could Congress intervene to force the administration’s hand, or is the current political climate too gridlocked for any meaningful oversight on the DV program?
> **Summary of the Core Question:** Since the administration’s previous “excuses” (the passport rule adjustments and the $1 fee integration) are no longer valid roadblocks, does the Department of State have any legal leg to stand on if they try to skip DV-2028, or will the U.S. legal system/Congress force them to run the program as mandated by law?
I would highly appreciate your analysis of the legal boundaries of the Department of State’s authority here.
Thank you for your continuous support and invaluable guidance for the DV community.
Thank you
May 30, 2026 at 00:40
The law is in charge – that is clear. Not complicated.
May 29, 2026 at 18:18
Hi Simon, as an Iranian Canadian dual citizen who is on 221g AP since my interview in November 2025, how often would you recommend contacting the embassy to follow up? Thx
May 30, 2026 at 00:39
Normally monthly, but given the DV pause it probably isn’t worth following up until some progress is made on the pauses.
May 29, 2026 at 11:20
Hi Simon,
I received my 2NL with my interview information for the Paris embassy. But I didn’t receive notification from AVITS (the website to confirm my interview and check progression) to confirm my interview as supposed.
When I asked them they said it is because no VISA is issued.
Do you have an idea about that ? Should I do my medical exam and attend my interview without confirmation ?
Thank you Simon
May 29, 2026 at 14:58
You register with the site. I don’t know every system for evcery embassy, but I don’t know of a courier system that proactively informs you of an appointment for a DV case. You just register.
Yes you should proceed as normal as long as you understand the risks.
May 29, 2026 at 08:34
Hi Simon — Do you know if the second IMMpact lawsuit includes AOS applicants? Their onboarding website says “this lawsuit does NOT include winners of previous DV lotteries. It also does NOT include DV-2026 winners who are already in the US applying for adjustment of status”, but I know a few of the details on the page are stale (fee, etc.). It’s my understanding that the Red Eagle lawsuit includes AOS applicants so just wanted to double check as I make my decision between the two. Thanks!
May 29, 2026 at 14:56
I would ask them to clarify if that concerns you.
May 28, 2026 at 11:34
Good day Mr Simon,
I am DV 2026 winner, AS 5000
I am dual Iranian Canadian Citizen with both valid passports.
I did my interview in Montreal Canada in Nov 2025 and got 221g.
My online file shows the last review in 31 Dec 2025. In my interview they said I should send my iranian job and family information to them and if successful then they will ask me to send my Canadian passport to get a visa. I sent them information they needed.
I received an email from Zachary , Joseph and Hall, with a link to immpactlitigation which says they started a new lawsuit for 1000 dollars.
My question is according to your experience and my situation, should I join this lawsuit or I should wait and join to the upcoming red eagle Curtis Morrison lawsuit?
Thank you for your dedication and help to DV community.
Regards
AREF
May 28, 2026 at 13:40
You have to decide for yourself once you can compare the terms, the strategy and so on.
May 28, 2026 at 15:03
Can I ask for your idea?
I really don’t know which one i should choose.
If you were in my shoes which one you choose?
Thank you
May 28, 2026 at 15:27
It’s not a reasonable comparison. The REL lawsuit is not announced yet – so that may affect things. You have time to make this decision. Relax and be patient.
May 28, 2026 at 17:59
Ok Simon
Thank you
May 28, 2026 at 04:21
BritSimon sir, as always, I hope you and your family are well. I plan to join the immpact follow-on lawsuit, but I wanted to share a few things in case they are useful in tracking what might be happening behind the scenes.
Chargeability: Johannesburg, South Africa
Case no: AF189xx.
DS-260 submitted: May 4, 2025
Processed: November 2025
AV queue: January 2026
I’ve been going back and forth with the embassy, and they’ve told me that they’ve been providing KCC with capacity and have actually given them capacity through August thus far. South Africa only has 187 selectees, and judging by the limited information we have from Xarthisius, I should have been scheduled quite a while ago, yet I still have not been.
Initially, I thought the embassies simply were not allowing enough capacity, but at this point it seems more likely that KCC is just not scheduling interviews.
Anyway, lawsuit it is. Although it is a bit frustrating that I’m not even in the U.S. yet and I don’t have certainty that I’ll make it there, but I’m already spending money lol.
May 28, 2026 at 13:36
I tend to take the embassy statement with a pinch of salt. They have made capacity available – but how many spaces?
May 28, 2026 at 03:01
The new Impact lawsuit is for 221(f) cases. Please elaborate what this means, will it try to speed up also the 221(g) refusals after interviews?
May 28, 2026 at 13:34
It is only partly going to address that.
212f is the travel ban for 39 countries. The lawsuit makes the point that it is an authority that the president has to stop ENTRY, not an “issuance of visas” authority. That could be kind of a hollow victory unless visas can be renewed later – which is unclear.
May 28, 2026 at 15:54
So if I am not from any of the 39 countries but just waiting for my interview in Europe as a European, there is no reason toi join that lawsuit?
May 28, 2026 at 16:21
I didn’t say anything like that. 212f is a PART of what the lawsuit is trying to do. The 75 country pause and the DV pause are also things the lawsuit is trying to attack – and those things are far different. I was only answering your original question.
May 27, 2026 at 22:33
Hello Sir, I hope you don’t mind me asking this. I was curious if you might have any thoughts on why Impact Litigation increased their fee from $750 to $1000. I know you may not know the exact reason, but I wanted to hear your opinion on it.
May 28, 2026 at 00:50
I am not Britt but look at this: hundreds of people ask them to do a LAST minute lawsuit. It’s not that straightforward for them to prepare a case so quickly so of course they can ask for whatever money they want. $1000 is still nothing for a lawsuit.
May 28, 2026 at 04:57
Excuse me, but on your page I see that the amount is still 750. Where did you see the other figure?
May 28, 2026 at 13:38
Charles Kuck has said the fee is 1000 and that the website will be corrected.
May 28, 2026 at 12:10
I don’t know the exact reason, but it’s still a gift. I thought the 750 was very very low. REL charged $2500 for their first lawsuit.
May 28, 2026 at 12:23
Yes, it is still accessible
May 27, 2026 at 19:04
Impact says there’s time until June 19th to register; is there really enough time to file the case, win it, and have the visa issued before September 30th?
May 27, 2026 at 21:15
I guess they know how to read a calendar.
May 28, 2026 at 08:55
Hello , good day Simon. Please can you help us with the website of immpact litigation and other firm involved in the lawsuit in order to avoid mistake of using wrong website.. thanks
May 28, 2026 at 13:40
https://www.immpactlitigation.com/dv-2026-mandamus-litigation-round-2-plaintiff-onboarding-2026/
May 27, 2026 at 17:54
I wanted to share with you some of my experiences with the Diversity Visa lottery over the years. In 2012, I was initially selected, but later informed that there had been a computer error in the random selection process. During the COVID-19 pandemic, I was selected again, but travel restrictions under the Trump administration prevented several countries, including mine, from entering the United States.
Most recently, I was fortunate to be selected in the DV 2026 lottery, among applicants from 72 eligible countries. However, given the challenges I have faced in previous years, I sometimes feel as though I am the most unlucky person in the world. The number of applicants from my country, Cape Verde, is relatively small, which makes these repeated setbacks even more discouraging.
I wanted to reach out to you to express my frustration and ask for your perspective. Why do these obstacles keep arising, and what advice would you give someone in my situation who is losing hope?
Thank you for taking the time to read my message
May 27, 2026 at 18:09
Wow that’s frustrating. All I can say is keep trying – maybe it will work out one day.
May 27, 2026 at 17:18
Hi all, quick note to let you know that Immpact have just started onboarding for their second DV 2026 suit.
May 27, 2026 at 17:36
Yep – announced today.
May 27, 2026 at 09:57
Hello!
How likely do you think the pause will be lifted for everyone?
May 27, 2026 at 10:00
It’s a possible outcome with various ways it could happen – so I am hopeful for that, but we will see.
May 27, 2026 at 06:30
Hi Mr. Simon,
Is there any update of the current lawsuit result? Also when 2nd lawsuits open will there be enough time to get result as 30th Sep is not that far.
Apart from this as i am also affected by the 75 countries pause so do I have to join the group lawsuit for that as well?
May 27, 2026 at 09:32
No result from the lawsuits yet. We just have to wait and see. Both lawsuits are fighting the DV pause and the 75 country pause for their plaintiffs.
May 26, 2026 at 21:33
One thing is suru that DV 2027 is happen because in march 11 when they publish the final rule about passport. They have clearly mention that the implement will take for starting DV 2027 so that means DV 2027 is going to happen . But we have not exact date regarding DV 2027 up to now as we are end up may . So in my opinion we can see short window period may be 15 days or little more because there is no any law that DV lottery must open for 35 days. What do you think when will be open DV 2027 Simon in your point of views only. As we also know that you don’t khow exact date I am asking as your point of view only. Thankyou
May 27, 2026 at 09:31
I think the speculation is a bit pointless at this time. Let’s get the official dates.
May 27, 2026 at 17:59
Hi Brit, is there a substantial difference between the two lawsuits that were filed against the 2026dv pause? Now that Immpact opened a second round and Red Eagle is probably opening on June 1 the onboarding, does it matter which one to join? I am a dv2026 winner.
May 27, 2026 at 18:10
Only one has been officially announced – so I don’t know the differences…
May 26, 2026 at 13:34
I would like to share my perspective on U.S. politics and governance. In my view, President Trump has not delivered meaningful benefits to America. His policies often seemed to prioritize Israel, a country of 9 million people, over the needs of 340 million Americans. Under his administration, gasoline prices rose, which in turn increased the cost of other goods. Despite his claims of being intelligent, his history of multiple bankruptcies and current financial troubles suggest otherwise. His handling of COVID-19 was particularly troubling, especially when he suggested disinfectants as a possible treatment.
More broadly, I believe many American politicians are compromised by lobbying interests, making it impossible to truly defend the nation while accepting money from external groups. Meanwhile, countries like China are rapidly developing, investing heavily in infrastructure, while U.S. cities struggle with outdated systems. For example, the New York subway appears dirty and old compared to modern systems in China or Dubai. Additionally, members of Congress work only 174 days a year yet earn $174,000, not including other benefits and funds from lobbying organizations.
May 26, 2026 at 11:05
Hello Brit! I did my interview last year and was placed under 221g. The consular raised a concern that my DV entry passport photo ear structure did not match my ear structure in person and the passport photo I had submitted during the interview. Upon checking my entry photo, I realized that my ears had been pushed up abit to make them visible for the passport photo. Can this lead to visa denial
May 26, 2026 at 12:41
I’m really confused what you mean that your “ears were pushed up”. Do you mean the photo was altered, meaning your ears were repositioned? If that is true, then that would break the rules since they are clear that the subject should not be altered in any way.
May 26, 2026 at 08:33
DV 2027 is going to open as soon as practicable . Is am I right …?
May 26, 2026 at 08:51
That is what their announcement says…
May 25, 2026 at 19:30
Hello, Simon! I hope you are doing well. My CN is EU27xxx and I am a russian citizen currently on F-1 in the US (just graduated and waiting for my OPT/EAD). Because of the USCIS memo, I decided to switch to the CP, instead of AOS, although you told that AOS is a more stable choice; I just don’t want to take the risk of dealing with AOS given all the arbitrariness of their decisions, while CP is much better covered in lawsuits.
I know that I am late to submit my DS-260, but I filed it anyway and selected to be processed at the embassy in Belgrade, Serbia. Since there are no working US embassies in Russia (they are solely for US citizens), russians are typically expected to go to the embassy in Warsaw, Poland, yet russians need a visa to enter Poland, and this visa is absolutely unobtainable. Because of this inability to go to Poland, I had to choose Belgrade.
After filing the form, in the civil documents section I see this message: “Post Reassignment Request -Supporting Residence Documents”, apparently requiring me to justify my choice of the embassy. I did my best to look for similar questions on your website, but couldn’t find any. From what I read, to address this message, I need to write a cover letter explaining why I chose Serbia (which is visa-free for russians and has direct flights from NYC) instead of supposed Poland, and upload my current documentation regarding F1 OPT. Am I correct? Could you please tell me if you know what kind of justification should be provided to the CEAC? Or should I just wait?
I understand that I may sound impatient and KCC may send me an email in a few weeks, but I just wanted to be sure and prepared for everything, especially since I submited my DS-260 with a significant delay and time is the main enemy of DV winners.
Best Regards
May 25, 2026 at 21:40
I think you are making a couple of mistakes.
1. The choice of embassy isn’t a free choice. It must be justified by some connection to that country – residence or citizenship. That is why they will want proof of what justification you have to pick Serbia.
2. Given such a late DS260 submission, you are risking not getting processed in time.
3. AOS would be a better choice. CP is more covered because you already have more rights in AOS. The early filing policy means you could file when you see the VB that makes you current. Also the memo is being “walked back” by the government and is unlikely to be anything like as bad as it sounded.
4. You don’t mention whether you participated in a lawsuit, so I could understand the CP choice a little more if you had already signed up to a CP lawsuit, but honestly – I’m not getting that from what you wrote.
There is a saying that you can lead a horse to water but you can’t make it drink. You are throwing the water away.
May 25, 2026 at 05:21
I’m probably the thousandth person to ask, but… any news on the DV-2027 opening? From what I can find online, it seems like there isn’t any yet.
I also watched your YouTube video where you mentioned that the DV Lottery is established by Congress and therefore cannot be cancelled by the President, only suspended. Do you still believe DV-2027 will take place this year? Given that we’re already at the end of May, they would need to move fast, possibly with a very short registration window (few days)?
May 25, 2026 at 09:29
I believe it will happen – but I don’t know the dates.
May 25, 2026 at 02:14
Hello Simon,
I have some questions, I’m behind what’s happening right now with the DV process, because after the pause in December I wanted to not hear anything about it. I have a case number of EU21xxx, I’ve just received my 2NL and I’m scheduled for an interview on 22 July in Bucharest. Also, the CEAC says about my case ” Your search did not return any data”, is that a bad thing?
I don’t know what to do, I thought that when i got the 2NL it meant that the pause is over, but apparently it’s not, and i don’t know if I should spend money of the medical exam, transport to the embassy, consular fee. It’s quite a lot of money. Although, I have a sponsor in the US which would fill an I-134 for me and also offer me a job and housing, which would hopefully overcompensate my finances at the interview. I’m conflicted right now, I don’t know if i should go forward with the process and hope for the best or just ignore it. Is there anything that i can do to, or just wait and see?
Thank you a lot
May 25, 2026 at 09:28
The pause is not over, and while the pause is in place, you will be put on hold after the interview. If the pause is lifted they could issue your visa. There is a risk that the pause doesn’t get lifted, but I believe it will be lifted – at least for those in the lawsuits. So – if I were in your position I would attend the interview, and seriously consider getting on the “follow on” lawsuits.
May 24, 2026 at 12:10
Hi Brit,
Thanks for your help throughout this process.
A quick question on police certificate requirements before our interview:
Background: I received my 2NL for an interview in my country of citizenship, where I was living at the time. Since then, my wife and I moved to the UK in February 2026. My DS-260 is locked and hasn’t been updated to reflect the move, but my understanding is that I can still interview at the originally assigned post.
My situation regarding UK police certificates:
I have a UK ACRO Criminal Records Certificate from late 2025 covering my previous stay in the UK (under 1 year old at interview).
Our current UK stay (Feb 2026 → interview) will be under 6 months by the interview date.
My wife has no prior UK residence, and her current stay will also be under 6 months by the interview.
My interpretation: Neither of us needs a new UK certificate — my existing one is still valid (under 1 year old), and our current UK stays don’t meet the 6-month threshold that would trigger a new requirement. My wife doesn’t need one at all.
Can you confirm this is correct?
The interview is coming up soon, and given the cost and processing time for a new ACRO certificate, I’d rather not order one unnecessarily.
Thanks!
May 24, 2026 at 12:58
I would just get the new certificates. It sounds like you need one from your prior stay, and the police cert you have is a little old.
May 24, 2026 at 11:43
Hi Simon,
I got my 2nl since 14/05/26 for July interview but local embassy in the Caribbean still haven’t made it official in their system yet as it says case number not scheduled, I guess that is normal.
Is it smart to inform the consular officer on the day I go for the interview “when I’m approved” and the general pause is up, that I intend to get married right after the interview (utilising FTJ) and to not close off my case, so to speak ?
Or it does not make a difference saying a thing ?
Thanking you in advance for your response!
May 24, 2026 at 12:56
Why on earth have you not got married before???
May 24, 2026 at 13:41
We were at a crossroads, I have two opportunities at gaining a green card, DV (which was uncertain and well the pause is still uncertain) and my mother’s petition (which I have to stay unmarried for)
So I am just hoping to get my fiancé in the door at least, after I get approved at the interview but before I leave my home country to go USA. Sooo that’s why we’re not married yet.
May 24, 2026 at 13:50
OK – but it is not an FTJ process you would use – you would arrange to marry and add your husband to your case by another interview – but it certainly needs to be completed by Sept 30th.
May 24, 2026 at 09:21
Hi Brit, if I join either of the two new demands (I’m only affected by the Dv), is there a possibility of meeting the deadlines before September 30th, regarding the demand?
May 24, 2026 at 10:46
Yes – that is what the lawyers are hoping for.
May 24, 2026 at 04:10
Hi Brit,
I’m a DV2026 selectee from France. My family and I already completed the interview at the embassy and our case is currently stuck in Administrative Processing due to the ongoing pause.
At the same time, I recently received an internal mobility opportunity with my current company in the US, and the contract has already been signed. Because of the uncertainty around DV2026, the company is now considering to sponsor me for either an L1 or E2 visa if I formally withdraw from the DV process. Their attorneys apparently believe it is risky to maintain two immigration processes in parallel, even though the L1 allows dual intent, especially since I am currently outside the US.
Unfortunately, I am not part of the plaintiff group in the lawsuits.
At this stage, I am seriously considering withdrawing from the DV process in order to secure the corporate visa path for my family and me.
Do you have any thoughts on this situation ?
Thanks a lot.
May 24, 2026 at 08:23
1. There is no such thing as “withdrawing” the process. You filed a DS260. You can’t unfile it.
2. It is quite common to have two processes going – there is not a problem in that. However, the E2 visa is not dual intent – so that could be affected by the DS260 filing.
3. Not all attorneys are worth their fees.
May 24, 2026 at 14:47
Thanks Brit, that is very helpful and reassuring.
I think my concern mainly comes from the fact that I am outside the US and would need to go through consular processing for the L1. The company’s attorneys seem worried that, since I already filed a DS260 and completed the DV interview, having both processes active in parallel could create additional scrutiny at the consular stage, even though the L1 allows dual intent.
Do you think that concern is overstated?
Also, while I understand the DS260 itself cannot be withdrawn, I was considering notifying the embassy that I no longer intend to pursue the DV process if the company proceeds with the L1 sponsorship. Do you think there is any practical benefit in doing that?
Thanks again for your insights.
May 24, 2026 at 19:51
1. Yes
2. No
May 23, 2026 at 20:34
Hi Simon, I do not see people really talk about. After my interview in Almaty I’ve got 221g but with required documents form i-134 tax forms and passport copy. It make no sense for people like we are we know no one in US. Anyway – I’ve been told that it will lift 221g (75 country). I believe that even 75 country paused will be lifted the requirement will stay. But there everyone get it. So my question is – do you know anything about that or can you write lawyers that were in your videos. I do not like harsh words, but internet full of BS and people talk nonsense. I do not know will it lift the requirement ( ban/pause) but the officer told me that case will be reopen. Thank you an any case!
May 24, 2026 at 08:20
Your question is not very clear.
But the public charge requirement has always been there. I-134s have been useful for years, so will probably continue to be used.
May 24, 2026 at 23:36
Yes, sorry about that. All applicants in Almaty received Form 221g with an Affidavit of Financial Support (I-134). People were shocked – go find Americans requirement.
Back in my day, an officer called security because one guy simply didn’t want to take it. This is a common occurrence there! how many people have passed through that place? 2,000-3,000 people? The officer told me it was because of the 75 countries, etc. and your case will be reopened if I provide the documents (found an american()). Where 2-3 thousand people instantly find American citizens/residents who will help with filling out Form I-134, tax documents, and a passport!
My question: if the lawyers win the case regarding the 75 countries, will this requirement be waived/removed? It’s not about me, but about all of us at this consulate.
May 25, 2026 at 00:22
Unlikely to be removed since it has been a requirement since before DV lottery even existed.
May 23, 2026 at 19:21
Hi Simon, when printing out an healthcare plan, Is it okay if there is a premium tax credit that lowers the cost? is it okay for new LPRs or is it considered public charge?
Should I perhaps increase the expected salary? (Now it’s at 300% FPL which I think is very realistic for young couple, but I could technically make it higher by a little bit and not be eligible for tax credit.
I think it’ll make the CO very confident in us managing to pay healthcare given the lower cost, but I’m afraid it may not be allowed so I’d rather just go with the higher quote.
May 24, 2026 at 08:18
No problem on what the quote shows. The subsidy is not public charge.
May 24, 2026 at 17:18
Thanks for the response, which of the options would be a better choice? Both salary expectations are realistic given my skills and academic certification.
Should I just opt for the lower salary so the officer will see that I’m realistic and I’m not just throwing numbers? (the median household income where I intend to live is around 93k and the I can comfortably expect at least 75k (with subsidies) where 85k is the higher end (w/o subsidies)
It’s possible I would be able to make alone over 100k but obviously it might take time to land a job in the field I intent to work at (Tech as a Junior SW)
May 24, 2026 at 19:52
It’s your call. Go with what you think makes sense.
May 23, 2026 at 12:37
Not yet received 2NL yet, my case number AF35xxxx.
I lived and worked in UAE- Dubai for 6 years and relocated to Kenya in August 2020. Do I require a Pcc from UAE during interview?
May 23, 2026 at 15:07
Yes – but check the instructions for UAE on the reciprocity page.
May 22, 2026 at 18:18
Hi Uncle Simon,
I checked the CEAC visa status, and it shows the case status as “Refused.” However, on the interview day, the consular officer told us to return the passport later after the pause is lifted. They also gave us a white paper with 221(g), and we were told that we passed the interview.
Is there still any hope despite the “Refused” status? We are also hoping to join the next DV lawsuit as well.
May 22, 2026 at 18:45
221g is a temporary refusal. That’s why it says refused.
May 23, 2026 at 09:08
What if the status reads “Ready” in a case where the interview was approved 2 days before the pause was declared.
May 23, 2026 at 10:17
That doesn’t mean anything other than the embassy just forgetting to update the status.
May 22, 2026 at 16:30
Do you really think that some embassies might ignore a court order and still not send any 2NLs?
May 22, 2026 at 16:47
Of course. The court orders are not binding on the embassies.
May 22, 2026 at 17:14
If court orders are not binding on embassies, then what is the purpose of going to court in the first place? A federal court order should mean something, otherwise applicants are left without any real protection.
May 22, 2026 at 18:44
It’s a basic truth about any lawsuit. The court cannot tell people what to do if those people are not defendants in the lawsuit.
May 22, 2026 at 17:21
Maybe you prefer to make me feel more pessimistic.
May 22, 2026 at 18:45
I prefer to tell you truthful answers.
May 22, 2026 at 14:48
HI SIMON
I see people with CNs over 25k writing to you, and you still give them some optimism. Meanwhile, I have a relatively low case number and I’ve been current since April, yet I still can’t see any light at the end of the tunnel because the 2NL is not coming.
I’m starting to feel pessimistic because time is passing quickly. I honestly don’t know whether the IMMPACT lawsuit will bring back our hope and happiness.
May 22, 2026 at 15:56
That’s because the experience will vary from embassy to embassy – as I have explained, many times.
May 22, 2026 at 11:35
Damn that Portuguese guy who killed his classmate at university and caused all these problems with the American lottery, ruining everyone else’s dreams. Damn him, may he go to hell.
May 22, 2026 at 12:33
He is probably already in hell, but let’s be clear – that was just a pretext for the decisions of the government.
May 22, 2026 at 11:09
Hi Simon, do you think this new USCIS info will impact the DV 26 lottery and DV suits? It doesn’t seem relegated unless it’s AOS but would appreciate your thoughts. Thanks!
May 22, 2026 at 12:33
I don’t know. It is clearly going to invite more lawsuits, and there is no clarity about which cases are affected or how. So – it’s just more stupid shit from the muppets in charge. What will happen next – who knows.
May 22, 2026 at 12:37
Thanks Simon.
Unless it’s AOS DV cases, I don’t see how all other DV cases would be affected by this news? From my understanding it just impacts APS cases only.
May 22, 2026 at 13:35
Yes – of course.
May 31, 2026 at 14:22
Hi Dear Simon,
I did my interview on 15.01.2026. My interview was in February and I was placed under 221g. Since then, I have joined the IMMpact litigation lawsuit to remove the pause (I am not affected by the country ban).
I would like to clarify if I get things right:
1. The IMMpact lawsuit has a second round open until 19.06.2026, meaning no court results are expected before that.
2. The results should be expected 60 days after the filing, and with a PI it might be sooner, so I aim for mid-July to early August.
3. Hopefully, the pause will be lifted, let’s say on August 1st for this example.
4. I will need to wait for the embassy to contact me to request new medical exams.
5. Only with the embassy request for exam letter, I will be able to redo the medical and send it back to the embassy (let’s say somewhere before the end of August).
6. The embassy will invite me to hand them the passports for the entry visas, which will expire on September 30.
7. That will leave me just a few days to enter the U.S. to get the green card visa.
Did I get it right?
May 31, 2026 at 15:52
The visa is issued with a validity date of 6 months after the medical date – even if that validity is after September 30th.
May 31, 2026 at 23:13
So…
If I will redo the medical exam on August I will get entry visa for 6 months from that date, and once I will enter I will get the green card?
Even if I enter after the september 30 (but sooner than the 6 months from the medicals)
May 31, 2026 at 23:28
Yes
May 22, 2026 at 05:39
Hello i have eu24.7k case, Will the visa requirement be increase?
May 22, 2026 at 12:30
You mean the visa bulletin. Well yes, probably.
May 22, 2026 at 02:45
Hi Brit,
I read your blog article about adding newborns to the application but I still have a a question regarding the tight timeline that’s left in DV26.
We had our baby last week but it will take another 7-10 days a before we get all the papers and photo ready. Our case number is 26EU29XXX. Should we ask KCC now to open the form before the next VB is published or do we risk a critical delay if we become current because of the opening and review process? Would it make sense to wait for the next VB and – if current – handle this directly with the embassy?
Best regards
May 22, 2026 at 12:30
Do it now. There is no delay for adding a baby – because babies don’t represent any threat – at least not in the minds of normal people.
May 22, 2026 at 15:12
Thanks, will do 🙂
Though they are a threat to a good night’s sleep 😁