Completing the DS260 for DV lottery entrants
Completing the DS260 for DV lottery entrants
*** Note***
Upon submission, some people are getting an error message that the confirmation number doesn’t match. In that case – the solution is here:
https://britsimonsays.com/faq/ds260-case-number-doesnt-match-case-number/
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OK – so the main task to process your DV lottery win is to complete a form online that is your “application” for immigration benefit. That form is the DS260.
The form itself might seem daunting, and it may take about 2 hours to complete. It is important that you prepare your information, and enter the details as accurately as possible. You will be able to make changes later on, but it makes sense to spend a few extra minutes early on to get this right.
You will some documents to complete the process and mostly you will need those now so gather them now and create a special file to start creating your DV lottery paperwork:-
- Passport information for you and your family members.
- Birth certificates for you and your family members.
- Your education history
- Your work history
- Your address history
- An address in the USA of a friend or family member. This is where your Green Card will be sent.
Ready? OK now let me guide you through completing the form:-
Enter the form for the first time.
You need your case number which will be in the format of YEAR-REGION-CASENUMBER. For example 2016AS00001234. This is the FULL case number including the “leading zeroes” in this case before the 1234. (In online forums we suggest hiding the last 2 or 3 digigits and dropping the leading zeroes – so when quoting your case on a forum you would state this number as 2016AS1XXX or 2016AS12XX. This protects your identity.)
The form will expect your date of birth in day/month/year order. This is odd because Americans write date in month/day/year order.
Once in the form you will go through a number of sections where you will enter your details. Most of the information is self explanatory – but here are screenshots for each section of how the forms will look for a simple case – and some comments about some of the questions. Please remember it is important to make sure your answers are YOUR answers. Don’t just copy what I am suggesting if the answer does not agree with your circumstances.
1. Summary.
Here you will see a list of applicants attached to the case (based on the eDV entry). Click the link under “IV application” to complete the details for each applicant.
You can also add applicants from this page (if you have married since the original entry or had a child). Once you have added an applicant you cannot remove that applicant or change their name. So – please be careful about name spelling etc. It is also important to note that if you are adding a spouse or child that you already had prior to the original eDV entry but failed to mention in the original entry you will most probably be disqualified, as that is a critical error.
If you do have to add a child or spouse because of a birth or marriage while you are waiting to be interviewed, remember you will need to add an applicant AND in addition your own form will need to be unlocked so that you can add the new family relationship to your form.
2. Personal Information 1.
This is where you will enter your name information. It is a useful page to capture your name in English, but also in Native alphabet.
The names entered on this page should be as listed on your passport – but also use the “other names used” section to make sure you have covered combinations that appear in your documents. For example, if you have an education certificate that includes an additional family name, use the alias section to include that name. Also, use the alias section if you entered your name differently on the eDV entry. Entering your other names used here means USCIS have early notice to perform name checks on your various names used and therefore you can make sure your background check is comprehensive – which is exactly what you want to reduce the chances of being placed on AP or even refused for incomplete name information.
Complete the other details such as date of birth. If you somehow made a mistake on the eDV about your date of birth (for example during conversion from a different calendar) THIS is your opportunity to correct that mistake – please pay attention to that. This would normally agree with the date of birth on your birth certificate, but if that is not known, then use the date shown on your passport.
About city/state/country of birth. ON the eDV entry (where you entered the lottery) you will have entered something for your city of birth. The three levels are related to each other – so a CITY is sometimes denoted as being in a STATE (or province) and that STATE is within a COUNTRY. People sometimes are not sure what to enter so let me gives some examples.
You could have been born in Richmond which is a city/town in London, United Kingdom. So an acceptable answer (which should agree with the information on your birth certificate) would be:
CITY: Richmond
State/Province: London
Country: United Kingdom
Your passport should be valid for 6 months beyond the point of entry, but if your passport will expire during the DV process, you might be better submitting now with the current passport and updating later once you have the replacement passport. This is especially true if you have a low case number, and are therefore expecting an early interview. If you do need to renew your passport during the DV process, in many cases people have taken old and new passports to the interview without unlocking the form, but the preference would be to add the new passport details if time allows.
OK – hope that makes sense. Check what it says on your birth certificate. It is important that this information agrees to the birth certificate and the passport. By the way – your country of birth may not be the same as your nationality (which is on the next page). But your country of birth is what should have driven your entry into the lottery (eligibility is based on your country of birth, NOT your nationality).
The finished result should look something like this:-
3. Personal information 2
This page is about your travel documents (passport). Make sure you have the passport in front of you when you complete this page – accuracy is important as this will enable background checks.
Note, if you do not have a passport at this time you can complete the entry using another state issued ID, and then later unlock your forms to add the passport details. You WILL need a passport prior to interview as will any derivative (family member) of yours.
4. Present and previous address information
Try and complete this as accurately as possible. Provide all the address that you have LIVED at since the age of 16. If you stayed at a holiday home for a month or two, that does not need to be entered, but if you LIVED at an address for a few months then you should enter that address. You enter past address in reverse date order – meaning going backwards in time, one address at a time. Be as accurate as possible with the date you started living at each address (you can guess the dates within a month or two).
5. Mailing and Permanent Address Information
This is information about where you expect to stay in the USA OR the address of someone you can trust to receive your Green Card on your behalf. Most people can think of someone within their family or friends that could receive the GC for them. You should also know that you can change this address during the process – right up to the day your arrive in the USA for the first time.
6. Family information: Parents
OK – self explanatory information. I only show the top of the page in the screenshot below but you add your parents details and their addresses. THe data here should be accurate, but if you don’t know their birthdates etc. it is not a huge problem. Do the best you can.
7. Family information: Spouse and Previous Spouse
Enter the details as appropriate to your case. Remember, the information should be correct on the day you enter it. So, if you plan to marry in a month but want to submit your form today then you are SINGLE today. YOu can either delay submission of your form until you are married, or submit now as single and unlock your form later after the marriage. There is some information about marriage during the DV process here.
A previous spouse is entered when you divorced of a spouse passed away. You will be required to produce a divorce certificate or death certificate during the interview to tally with what you enter here.
8. Family information: Children
Fairly obviously you will need to enter information about each child you have, making sure their information ties with birth certificates and passports.
If your child is nearly 21 there may be special considerations for you. Please read this article on children aging out and their status under the CSPA.
If you are expecting a child to be born during the DV lottery processing period there are also procedures in place to obtain a Green Card for that child. I will address that with a new article.
One thing I would say, it is ESSENTIAL that you listed all your children in the eDV according to the instructions. If you made a mistake about that you may have caused yourself a problem. If you have a concern, contact me and explain your situation.
In the case shown in the screenshot below the applicant did not have any children.
9. Present work/education/training information
OK so this is important as education OR work experience are requirements of the DV lottery. Please read this article for more information about meeting the requirement. I cannot stress enough. You are only required to meet the education OR work experience – you do not have to prove BOTH. Of the two routes, education is the simplest and most reliable method, but some people cannot meet the education requirement – and although this may surprise you that includes me. I have had a very successful career in the IT field and have demonstrated my skills to earn a H1 visa (which is category of visa for highly educated or highly skilled workers), BUT I could not have met the DV lottery requirement on education! So – think carefully whether you do or not – and act accordingly.
Enter the information about work and education based on what you are doing at present. If you are entering work experience and hope to qualify through work experience you should consider carefully the question about “does this job require 2 years of training or experience”. Again, read the article above to understand that better.
10. Previous work/education/training information
OK – so this will vary depending on what you did before your present occupation. Maybe you had a different job, maybe you studied. Whichever is true you must enter that information here and create a complete history of your work, education and training. Try and get the dates to be accurate and make sure that those dates make sense with the address information you gave previously.
This page can end up being quite long and for the screenshots I have had to break it into two pieces. Just take your time and make it make sense. You can add another occupation (work or edication). Again, you enter going “backwards” in time.
11. Additional work/education/training information.
Answer the questions truthfully on this page. If you answer Yes and a box opens for further details there will be instructions of what further detail they want.
12. Security and Background: Medical and Health information
Answer these questions carefully and truthfully.
The second question (about vaccinations) causes some debate. Truthfully it WILL NOT MATTER whether you choose Yes or NO for that particular question. The right answer for 99% of people is NO, because you do not have “documentation to establish…”, even if you do have records of vaccinations. So, it is a subtle point but whether you answer yes or no it will not matter. The vaccinations you actually need will be decided by the panel physician at the time of your medical. So by all means gather whatever vaccination documentation you have.
13. Security and Background: Criminal
Answer these questions truthfully. Most criminal convictions will not cause disqualification, and you will have a chance to explain at the interview. The crimes that can cause disqualification are called “crimes of moral turpitude”. It is a vague term and perhaps one that I will write about to clarify but most people by far will not have a problem even if they have a criminal conviction. Previous immigration fraud is not surprisingly one of the crimes that can cause an issue which is why it is essential you always tell the truth on these applications.
14. Security and Background: Security 1
Again – answer these truthfully.
15. Security and Background: Security 2
Again – answer the questions truthfully.
16. Security and Background: Immigration law violations
As I mentioned earlier – they take immigration law violations seriously!
17. Security and Background: Miscellaneous 1
Again answer truthfully.
The skilled or unskilled labor question has sparked some debate. In reality if you intend to work in the USA then the answer to this is Yes – but this is another question that will not cause a problem no matter which response your choose.
18. Security and Background: Miscellaneous 2
Again these just need truthful answers.
The healthcare professional one is another question that really doesn’t matter how you answer it. If you are a healthcare worker don’t be afraid to admit that.
The public charge question should be answered NO. Public charge means financial assistance from the government. You must realize that the Green Card lottery winners should not be claiming “public assistance”. There are some exceptions to that statement, but in general you are expected to support yourself. The USA is a land of opportunity, not free gifts.
19. Social security number
Answer these three questions as shown below unless you already have a SSN from a previous period in the USA. USCIS will (in theory) forward your details to the social security administration (SSA) to apply for your SSN. In practice many people find this does not happen correctly and delays are caused in getting the SSN after you enter the USA. Since the SSN is so important for many purposes here in the USA that is a nuisance, so I always suggest people visit the SSA office after a couple of weeks to make sure your SSN is “in the system”. You should receive the SSN card itself about 2 to 3 weeks after entering the USA.
Submitting the form.
OK so you have completed your form. You do the same for each derivative (family member). Check all the forms carefully, take screenshots if you like and when you are ready, submit the form. You should then print the confirmation page. You will be able to review the form later in review mode and can also take screenshots at that point.
You may also be prompted to fill out a form for “selected service”. Any us resident male under 26 years old is required to register for selective service. This does not not mean you will need to serve in the military, but if there was some crisis that required additional military men under 26 years old will be picked by a lottery to be inducted into the military.
The form will become “locked” so that you will not be able to edit it although you will be able to review the information after you submitted it. If you need at any time prior to your interview to unlock the form you can do so by emailing KCC who generally respond within a few days. Once unlocked you can make changes.
Once KCC have your form they will “process” it. They conduct background checks based on the information you have told them and access to official records. The processing period in DV2015 took around 4 to 5 months because of the volume of forms submitted around the same time. So, if you have a very low case number and you delay the submission of your DS260 there is a chance you could delay the interview date – BUT don’t worry, you will simply be interviewed later. Interviews are conducted based on case number order but only from a pool of cases that have completed their DS260 processing.
July 6, 2020 at 14:37
Hi Simon
I have been having problems login into the DS-260. After entering valid information the return message I receive is, “Your case information does not match our records”.
Please I need your assistance in fixing this problem.
July 6, 2020 at 19:05
https://britsimonsays.com/for-people-who-cannot-submit-the-ds260-for-dv2021/
July 6, 2020 at 15:02
Hi Simon
After entering my case number I fill in the empty spaces they replied me saying. ” My request cannot be processed at this time.
What does that mean?
Do i have to wait?
July 6, 2020 at 19:06
Your question is too vague.
July 7, 2020 at 07:30
Hi Simon,
Your efforts are really appreciated!
I am in DV 2021 and my CN is around AS15000. I already submitted my DS 260. My question is that I have a girlfriend who is US citizen and she is also my sponsor in this case. We plan to get married sometime early next year if the situation is bit better assuming before interviewing.
1. Do I need to ask for KCC to unlock my DS 260 for adjusting my marital status after wedding?
2. Is there any huge negative impact to get married to a US citizen during this process?
3. Do I also need to add my wife (US citizen) into the form?
July 7, 2020 at 16:08
1. Yes
2. No
3. ON your form, yes.
July 7, 2020 at 14:45
Hi Simon,
I have a question regarding previous addresses. I was in the states for two separate summer work and travel programs. Would those two 4 month stays be considered temporary or a residence address that needs to be written down on Form DS260.
Thank you for your help.
July 7, 2020 at 16:28
No.
July 7, 2020 at 18:50
HI Brit, i opened and made changes already. Thank you. DO i need to go ahead and send documents, or wait for further instructions? Thanks
July 7, 2020 at 19:03
You can wait for a while.
July 8, 2020 at 08:06
Hello, Hope this finds you well..
I got 4 names in my passport. it goes as ( RAMI ALTAYEB SULIMAN ALTAYEB).
when i made the entry I’ve only put (given name RAMI ALTAYEB, Surname ALTAYEB)
my Q is what to do now with filling the personal information. keep in mind it got to match with passport name.
appreciate your help.
July 8, 2020 at 20:48
Match with the passport. Just that.
July 8, 2020 at 15:22
Hello Brit, hope all is well. My question is I am from Ghana and my spouse before I got married to her was married last year and won the DVlottery 2019 but she was denied the visa for reasons best known to the embassy. But fast forward 2021 she has won again but this time with me as the husband. Now will the previous entries affect our chances of getting the visa and will the embassy use the 2019 dvlottery DS60 entries as a basis for the 2021 DS260 during the interview. Thanks.
July 8, 2020 at 22:06
The embassy will have full access to the previous case. THe reasons for the denial and any complications created at that time could be used in the DV2021 decision. So – you both need to have a realistic and honest conversation about why that previous case was denied.
July 9, 2020 at 01:14
Hello Brit. My CN# is 2021EU38xx, I’m goind to apply AoS and I have a question about the children in DS-260 form. Should I and my spouse indicate only our unmaried child under 21 y.o as like as it was required in DV form, or should we list all our children, including a married adult daughter, despite she will not immigrate to the United States with us? My concern is that some forums advise to list only children below 21 yo, and another one (boundless) advises to include information about all the children no matter how old they are. Thank you in advance.
July 9, 2020 at 03:09
The question in the DS260. Does it mention age? No.
July 9, 2020 at 03:08
Hi BritSimon,
I’m in DV2021 with CN around OC1800, and currently I am unemployed and have completed the form accordingly. My question is if I get a new job after submitting the DS260 do I update this at the interview or would I ask KCC to unlock my DS260 to adjust my current work info? I’m yet to submit the form, I’m at the ‘Review’ stage prior to submission.
Thanks for all your info, it’s been a great help!
July 9, 2020 at 03:21
You can mention it at interview.
July 9, 2020 at 03:28
hi brit, I want to know about selective service system (ds1810) [it show before the submit application ] now I am 25 years old,
1) what is it
2) do i attach that application or later
3) it valid for when received visa or if after when i enter to USA
4) do i sent scan copy to KCC when I submit document
5) who take for vitness
July 9, 2020 at 19:09
The link in the DS260 explains, as does the selective service site.
https://www.sss.gov/
July 9, 2020 at 12:28
Hello Simon,
I have been selected dv2021/ EU21xxx, in the end of November 2019 we learn that I was pregnant :). We were both single, because of the quarantine we have not been able to get married before and we have married on early July 2021 after learning the DV2021 answer.
I have not changed my Surname- because a lot of documents/ trainings ect.
We are waiting for our angel to come on very early of August.
1. Should we submit the DS260 or to wait for it till our baby girl come?
2. Does the fact that I have not changed my Surname will effect my success to obtain green card?
Also my passport will expire in August, I have applied for the new one meanwhile
3. Which passport is better to be used in DS260 form?
July 10, 2020 at 05:56
1. I would wait, personally. No need to rush.
2. No. ‘
3. New one. But provide proof of the old and new passports to KCC and the embassy.
July 10, 2020 at 02:53
Hello,
Regarding dv2021, I have submitted the ds-260 month ago. Do I need to pay some fee in order this form to be processed or? I didn’t pay anything (didn’t found anything online), but I didn’t got any email from KCC still. Should I wait more or I need to make some fee payments first?
What do you think what is processing time now for ds-260 (and steps after, interview). Thank you!
July 10, 2020 at 05:52
There is a link to my lottery guide, there is a FAQ, and a basic questions post. Please read some of that!
July 11, 2020 at 00:12
Hi Simon,
With all respect, I read I think every post and entire FAQ. I didn’t found processing time for DS260 for DV2021 (not for dv2016, dv2015 since now everything is postponed).
Thank you for answering on all questions to everyone.
July 11, 2020 at 00:23
Of course there is nothing about processing time for DV2021. It only just started. You know there is a ban until the end of the year, and you now should understand that scheduling is based on case number. So the time for DS260 processing is completely irrelevant.
July 11, 2020 at 00:32
Thank you for the response.
I submitted DS260 month ago, and never received any email with instructions.
I have seen here in the comments that people received after few days, that’s why I asked for ds processing time (I didn’t ask for scheduling for the interview).
If is irrelevant I guess I will wait for instructions for the documents. Thank you.
July 10, 2020 at 05:28
After submitting ds 260 after receiving the email confirmation can we view the form what we have entered
July 10, 2020 at 05:54
Yes. Try.
July 11, 2020 at 03:36
Is that by clicking the “ completed “ button
July 29, 2020 at 18:35
Dear Mr. Simon,
Firstly, congratulations for the best blog and youtube channel about the DVL process, with accurate and up to date information.
My girlfriend has been selected this year, case number 2021-EU-359XX. We will most likely get married next month, so here are a few clarifications that would help us:
1. Soon after marriage, in AUG2020 we will submit the DS260 and there should be sufficient time for processing by the KCC.
2. There is no deadline to submit the DS260, but the whole process should be completed before 30 SEP 2021.
3. Based on your experience and the absolute madness of 2020, how weak is our case number?
4. Pandemic and immigration bans aside, hopefully and if we’re lucky, when could we expect to have the interview scheduled in Romania?
July 30, 2020 at 20:20
1. There is LOADS of time – no need to rush.
2. Yes
3. It is too soon to know. Wait a few weeks.
4. Its months away – probably summer 2021.
August 1, 2020 at 08:31
Thank you sir! I appreciate it!
Regarding # 3. “Wait a few weeks”… What for? What indicator should we look for?
August 1, 2020 at 15:15
We will have selectee numbers, and more info about the immigrant ban.
July 12, 2020 at 11:30
Hey Simon,
Thanks for everything that you have done in this blog.
I have a question
When should I expect the email that requests the documents?
July 12, 2020 at 15:44
When it arrives.
August 30, 2020 at 14:25
Hello this is a document complete mail Congratulations! Our records indicate that you have submitted all documentation required by the Kentucky Consular Center and are ready to be scheduled for an interview when your case number becomes current. Interviews are scheduled numerically based on case numbers that have completed processing.
Interviews for the DV 2020 program are currently suspended. You can find out more about this suspension at travel.state.gov. All DV 2021 interviews must be concluded by September 30, 2021. Please refer to the visa bulletin at travel.state.gov to locate the current numbers being processed. This bulletin is updated after the 15th day of each month. Once an interview date has been scheduled, you will receive notification via email listed on your DS-260 to check dvlottery.state.gov.
If your case becomes current and you have not received notification to check dvlottery.state.gov, please contact [email protected] to confirm all of your documents have been received, and you are ready to be scheduled for an interview.
Important Notice on Missing Documents: Please provide all documents required for your case as quickly as possible. If you are unable to provide certain documents, KCC will ask for an explanation of why this document was not provided. Failure to provide certain documents will not prevent your case from being scheduled, but a consular officer will require you to obtain the missing documents before a visa can be issued. As a general rule, any document that is listed as “available” on the country-specific guidelines must be reviewed by a consular officer. Failure to obtain all required documents will delay your case.
July 12, 2020 at 12:54
My husband was selected for the Diversity Visa 2021. We are working on filling out the application form (Ds-260).
One of the questions are ” have you ever had a US Visa before”. Then they are asking for “date of issue”
I was an Au Pair in 2007/2008 and had the J-1 VISA.
Unfortunately I cannot remember the exact date when it was issued? I know the month of entry (October 2007) but not the month of issue.
I have contacted the Swedish embassy and Kentucky for help, without luck. What is your advice? Do think it is okay if I am off with 6 months e.g. putting April or May 1st as date of issue?
How accurate must this date be?
Thank your for your help.
July 12, 2020 at 15:50
Best guess is fine.
July 12, 2020 at 17:46
Hi BritSimon
I hope you doing well in your daily life
As I am a chemical engineer graduated recently,
There is un additional information in section of *work,Education,Training*
Which ask if we have a specialized skills or training like ……, niculare, explosion, biochemical AND CHEMICAL EXPERIANCE,
My question is
As I’m a chemical engineer who graduated recently and dose not work in my profession yet
Just have some experience of chemical engineering that I got it during my collage study and finl project of graduate,
Do I need to put yes and explain it,
And as I see the others information like niculare and explosion with my professionl which make me feel like I have a same level experience of those that will make them attention on me as others experience
Is that going to effect on my case or just normal addition ?
Thank you for your feedback Simon
July 12, 2020 at 18:22
You have to list your education. Will it affect your case – it might make things a little slower for background checks.
July 12, 2020 at 19:57
Thank you Simon for yohr reply,
I know that I have to list my Education in the form of DS260
But do you think that all thing that I got from collage like information and basic skills of my specialists in collage could be as Chemicals Experience, Wiche they mean it in the Q of addition in Section of #work, Education,..# above,
Or they mean who had this chemicals experience during his professional work and his research out of his study at college,
I need your review cause I’m confused about that
July 12, 2020 at 21:01
I don’t have anything to add.
July 13, 2020 at 02:11
Hi Simon,
My case number is 2021AF 74XXX. A very higher CN.
I already have an unexpired B1/B2. 4 yrs more.
1. Do i really need to submit my DS 260 even at a later time say in June 2021.
2. As a higher case number assuming there is a cut-off CN, and am affected will that also affect my B1/B2
3. Assuming i want to submit later in June, and DV 2022 entry is available this October, can i try again.
Thank you.
July 13, 2020 at 04:25
1. About the latest you could submit is April or May.
2. Filing the DS260 won’t affect the B1/B2 you have, but could make future visa applications harder.
3. Of course.
July 13, 2020 at 17:43
Hello Brit,
1/ I didn’t have officially permanent address ever under my name. been in three countries, each over year. Q is should I enlist the addresses regardless of my name being in the rent!!
2/ I do have residency in the country i’m in, However i’m working for other company without official prove that i work for them. no labor contract! Q is should i mention it as Experience.
3/ Got four names in my passport, Forgot to mention the name number 3 while doing the Entry. after reading your instructions. it says to write full name to match with passport, also i should mention it in Alias.. is this correct in my case.
4/ case number is AS29### what’s your rate for it? also my citizenship is banned from DV-Lottery. Should I proceed in the Hope of it will change? out of your expert eye what you think!
Your support is highly admired Man.
July 13, 2020 at 19:11
1. Yes – the question is to list addresses, noty addresses where you were on the lease.
2. Yes.
3. It should be listed in the legal name section.
4. OK, so that is a high number. It may mean you don’t get a chance. You should ideally wait until we know more about selectee numbers before submitting your DS260. There is no advantage to submitting fast.
August 16, 2020 at 15:55
Hi Mate,
with regard to your above reply for number 4. would you please share your thoughts or updates if there’s any!
Thanks.
August 16, 2020 at 15:57
Selectee numbers are not yet published.
July 14, 2020 at 00:11
What are the requirements that sponsor should have. Any income limits?
July 14, 2020 at 18:47
https://britsimonsays.com/all-about-public-charge-affidavit-of-support-i-134/
July 14, 2020 at 10:45
Hello, BritSimon!
1. My husband was selected for DV 2021, case number 2021EU00005XXX. We already filled and sent DS260 form, but I recently found some mistakes. How to contact KCC to unlock my DS? Thanks!
July 14, 2020 at 18:53
Please read the FAQ.
July 14, 2020 at 13:05
Hi Brit
Please I was considered for further processing in the DV 2021 program with a CN AF13XXX. Please I will like to know whether an Affidavit of Support (I-134) is a requirement for DV 2021 winners. If so, when will be the best time to have it?( is during submission of documents or at the interview)
July 14, 2020 at 20:13
The I-134 is more commonly requested these days – so selectees should be prepared. It is shown by the applicant at the interview.
https://britsimonsays.com/all-about-public-charge-affidavit-of-support-i-134/
July 15, 2020 at 06:21
I just need to ask, 1) Is being a blogger means unemployed?
I mean the person who work hard on the blog and earn money is still need to write unemployed? Or self-employed?
What is the document I need to have to prove that I earn money from a blog?
Kindly advise here.
July 15, 2020 at 21:26
A blogger that earns enough money from the blog to pay all living expenses could claim to be a professional blogger. But if you don’t earn very much and have no other job, you should list yourself as unemployed.
July 16, 2020 at 10:47
hi, Brit am very confuse about the Q DOCUMENT ID
July 16, 2020 at 20:42
Really?
July 19, 2020 at 01:10
Hi simon, i have completed and submitted the ds 260 about a month ago but still no email to submit supporting documents from kcc. Please is it normal or should i contact kcc? Thanks
July 19, 2020 at 01:16
Relax. This is a long process.
July 22, 2020 at 13:05
Hi Simon,
I have submitted my forms and for the previous travel question, I’ve realised I didn’t put in a country- but I only stopped over, did not leave the airport, as it was off a plane and then transferring- but still stamped in passport.
Q: Do I need to email for them to unlock my application to add this? Or is it ok to leave it, as I didn’t actually leave the airport?
Thank you.
July 22, 2020 at 17:44
You could leave that off.
July 24, 2020 at 09:01
Hi Simon,
Thank you for all the helpful information available on your website.
I submitted my DS-260 form on 23rd July 2020, I realize I submitted it rather later considering notifications have been available since 6th June. Could my late submission possibly mean I will not meet the threshold of the 50,000 selected to receive a Greencard?
July 24, 2020 at 13:21
Case number?
July 27, 2020 at 04:38
Case number 2021AF0007XXXX
July 27, 2020 at 19:03
So your DS260 is not late at all. You will wait many months, possibly 1 year before you can be interviewed. We don’t know how many selectees there are yet – so in a few weeks we will know better.
July 25, 2020 at 08:26
Hallo Brit
My case number is 2021AF0004××××
How is it?when is a good time to submit the form?
July 25, 2020 at 18:48
I assume that means a number between 40000 and 49999. That is not a low number so you can submit now or wait a few months. Your choice.
July 25, 2020 at 12:05
Hello Brit. I got a question
I want to fill ds260, but have no printer at hand to print the confirmation page (am in a remote place) and where i can get one, theres internet coonection issues.
1. Must i print it now or i can access the already filed form and print the confirmation page later?
2. Does it have an emailing option, to send it to my account for printing later?
Help
July 25, 2020 at 18:51
1. You can print it later.
2. You can print the page as a pdf – and email yourself that for later printing. That is handled by the browser.
July 25, 2020 at 17:09
Hello sir, first of all let me thank you very much for the great work you are doing, really your contribution is very valuable .. I have several questions: I am from Venezuela
a.- I already completed the DS-260 but never put the Zeros since in various forums they indicate it like this, example 2021SA35XX? Is it correct or can I have problems?
b.-My case number is low or high, 2021SA35XX without the Zeros (Venezuela)
c.-When I complete my wife’s DS-260, to sign and finalize place my case number and my Wife’s Passport Number, is that correct?
d.-The documents I understand must be translated into English at the time they are requested for digital submission? it is right?
Thank you very much
July 25, 2020 at 19:23
a. The DS260 requires you to remove the leading zeros.
b. It’s quite high, but it is too soon to know if it is too high.
c. Yes
d. You follow the document instructions. https://britsimonsays.com/document-procedure-modification/
July 25, 2020 at 21:39
Brit, I’m filling the form and I have some doubts:
– Present address: I’ve been living at the same address for MANY years, but my passport and ID shows another address (my mother’s) because for some reason.. I never updated it!! Is this a problem? It’s in the same city. So…should I use the address that’s declared in my passport or my real address .. even tho it differs from my ID?
Past visa:
– I visited USA under Visa Waiver Program (EU passport)… I’m not sure if to check “yes” or “no” when I’m asked if I have been given a visa before.. My passport has a WB/WT stamp.
– Same with Alien Registration Number question. I’m not sure if Visa Waiver gave me one or not.
(FYI that was the only time I visited USA, so no other visas)
Thanks for helping us!
July 25, 2020 at 22:02
Just list your actual address.
The Visa WAIVER program is named that way because it is not a visa.
July 26, 2020 at 06:47
Hi Brit,
I can see you have been helping and answering so many ppl, thanks for your patience and help to one and all.
Like everybody else, I too have few things that I too wanted to ask –
1. I submitted my DS-260 for 2021 entry before mid June last month, roughly how long does it takes after submitting DS_260 that one normally gets called for the interview at the Consulate?
2. Is DV visa, if granted, exactly same as US Green Card? What I am asking is , does a DV Visa Holder have same privileges and rights as a Green Card Holder? If not, what is the fundamental and key differences between DV Visa rights and US Green Card rights?
3. How long does it take a DV Visa Holder to qualify for a US Citizenship? And what are the criterias that one has to fulfill before qualifying?
Thanks,
Abhishek
July 26, 2020 at 14:08
1. It depends on your case number.
2. It is a Greencard.
3. 5 years residence. Google it
July 27, 2020 at 04:29
Thanks Simon.
My Case Number for 2020-21 is OC25XX
Is it a a very high number for processing?
Thanks,
Abhishek
July 27, 2020 at 18:59
It might be – we don’t know how many selectees there are yet – so in a few weeks we will know better.
July 27, 2020 at 05:03
Are DV2020 winners are lost hopes ?
or
Still we have to wait, until they send a official email ?
July 27, 2020 at 19:04
There will not be an official email. DV2020 selectees need to wait and see if the ban can be blocked, but even if it is, there is not enough time to help all cases.
July 27, 2020 at 05:24
Hi Sir, I would like to ask some few questions.
1. I have heard that if your case number is high then there is less chance to get visa. So, my case number is AS000225XX and I would like to know is it low or medium chances to get visa.
2. I have 42,553/- USD in my bank account and will it help to prove that I’ll not be Public Charge once I reached USA.
Thanking you.
July 27, 2020 at 19:04
1. That’s not a high number
2. I would still suggest an I-134
July 27, 2020 at 19:17
Getting an I-134 is something very unlikely unless you have family in the US, I guess?
Even if you have friends there, which I do, I would not dare to ask them to sign a document saying that they would take care of me.
Or is there something that I am missing here? Is this I-134 more common than I think, and not so implicating for the sponsor family as it sounds? I would seriously appreciate your thoughts / knowledge on this, Simon.
In my case, I am a graphic designer, 34, single, no kids, and I am applying without having more than $20.000 on my account. Does that look so bad ?
July 27, 2020 at 19:23
The I-134 can be completed by friends or family in the USA. There is no legal obligation on the sponsor as the form is not enforceable. However, it is wise to have it prepared in case the CO asks for it. Whether they ask for it or not varies by embassy, by CO and by case.
July 28, 2020 at 00:44
I read in a comment that you mentioned they do tend to ask for the I-134 in Paris.
Do you know if they often ask for the I-134 in Buenos Aires’ embassy? (Argentina)
July 28, 2020 at 00:59
It would not be a surprise if they did.
July 27, 2020 at 08:10
Hello BritSimon,
I was wondering if you had any information on “crimes of moral turpitude”, or if you are going to write a post on this topic? I would love to know other peoples experience in this area, during interviews and whether they were granted a visa etc.
Thank you in advance.
July 27, 2020 at 19:06
There is not a one size fits all approach on this. Decisions are up to the CO, and vary depending on the crime, when it happened and so on.
July 27, 2020 at 09:11
Dear Mr. Simon
Thankyou for all your help you’ve provided many of us here. I had a ques as whether my case no is high or low. My case is AS7***
Thanks in advance!
July 27, 2020 at 19:06
Pretty low. AS case numbers go up to around 35XXX
July 27, 2020 at 23:09
Hello
If my sponsors income is less than national poverty guideline limits, can I show my personal assets along with to qualify or should I find another sponsor ?
Thanks in advance
July 27, 2020 at 23:12
Find another sponsor.
July 28, 2020 at 00:10
Thank you.
I have put that sponsors address as my permanent address in ds 260. So if I am changing the sponsor shall I change my permanent address too as it the new sponsor lives in a far away state
July 28, 2020 at 01:00
No need.
July 29, 2020 at 00:31
Hello Simon! I hope you are doing well. I have a question please… They ask if I have ever been arrested or convicted of a crime or offense…. I was given a suspended sentence so 9 years ago. But, my answer to that question was “no” and I thought that was an honest answer since I have never been to jail or arrested or even handcuffed. The suspended sentence was given due to a fight which I really had no hand in… But as they say the law is the law. Now I am worried I don’t know if I have reopen my ds form and state this particular information or simply bring it to the attention of the Consular Officer on the interview day? Please if you have any advice pertaining to this matter. I don’t want to unintentionally misrepresent information or hide anything. Plus, my police clearance shows no records and so does my court record. I know this long, I am sorry Simon ?
July 29, 2020 at 16:30
Personally, I would have listed the conviction – for transparency. But because it doesn’t even show on your police cert, you have to decide. If you do list it, get court paperwork for the details of the case.
July 30, 2020 at 02:15
Hi Brit,
Thanks for the good job you are doing for us. My case number 2021AF5***. Can you please help me with these scenario;
I am a worker living in different town from my family(MY WIFE AND KIDS). I do visited them once or twice a month when am off duty and also spend my leave days with them. Please with these scenario how can i answer the question: ”Does this child live with you” on the ds260 form?
Thanks.
July 30, 2020 at 21:19
You are working away from home, but your home is still where your family live – right?
July 30, 2020 at 22:49
Yes Brit
Exactly as that
August 2, 2020 at 16:13
Please Mr. Brit i really need your suggestion because am stuck on this part
August 3, 2020 at 03:41
I answered. Read my reply – it is an answer!
July 31, 2020 at 16:01
Hi,
I do not know any one in the US. How do i proceed?
July 31, 2020 at 22:08
Use your imagination. You need an address where the GC will be sent – so it needs to be someone you can trust.
August 1, 2020 at 13:40
Hi Simon,
I hope you’re good.
In DS260, I just write my LinkedIn account like “linkedin.com/in/xyz”, but because of automatic caps it turns to “LINKEDIN.COM/IN/XYZ”. When copy this address to browser, browser doesn’t change the part of “IN” to “in” so it gives an error “Page Not Found” because it should have changed “IN” to “in”.
But when someone search me using my name and surname on LinkedIn, I am founded easily.
Is that a problem? Should i unlock the form to change?
August 1, 2020 at 15:16
Not a problem.
August 2, 2020 at 09:59
Hi Brit…
My CN is 2021AF00008XXX.. I submitted my DS260 on 12th June, 2020.. but I have still not received any email.. is it normal?? Thanks
August 3, 2020 at 03:34
It’s normal. Patience.
August 2, 2020 at 12:20
Hello Simon. I’m a Dv Lottery winner from Africa with a CN 2021AF23xxxx. I’ve submitted my DS-260 already. Buy I made a mistake, on one of my high school degree. I obtained it in 2009, but because of confusion, I put 2008. Can I contact KCC to open the form so that I can edit the information? Or can I wait for the subsequent scheduled interview to mention it to the consular agent ? Thank you for everything you do.
August 2, 2020 at 12:33
Also, I submitted it on June 30th. I was just going through the printed page I did today, and I discovered the mistake.
August 3, 2020 at 03:38
You can correct it if you want, but it won’t be a problem.
August 3, 2020 at 10:09
Thanks very much. I’m feeling much better ?. Have a blessed week.
August 2, 2020 at 22:00
Hi Sir,
I am a winner in 2021 DV Program and have below questions if can guide me please.
1. As the first step is submission of DS260 and My high school graduation documents are not yet ready so I need to know when is the last date or till which date for a 2021 winner to submit their DS260 form, my case number is 34xxx from Afghanistan.
B. Regards,
Michael
August 3, 2020 at 03:56
You could delay many months as your case number is very high.
August 3, 2020 at 05:05
Hi Sir,
Thanks your immediate response, so ( I could delay many months ) finally does it mean That even till mid 2021 I can process and summit my Ds 260 form ?
Thanks,
Michael
August 3, 2020 at 19:28
Until about March or April, perhaps early May.
August 3, 2020 at 00:12
Hi Simon
Can a US citizen sponser two different family ? His income meets the poverty guidiline criteria so his income is not an issue.
August 3, 2020 at 03:57
That can be a bad idea.
August 13, 2020 at 05:54
Hey i am winner of dv 2020 i hv sent ds260 form on june 12 my case number is 16xxx from Africa.i want to get clear information.when i apply the dv at first i was not merried ,i mean i was engaged so didnt submit that i was married and me and my fience has planned for marriage the coming october but in z middle the dv lottery comes.i already submitted my ds 260 as single after discussing with my fience. Can you tell me clear information if there is problem if we keep on our plan and how long does it takes for me to get in us apart the current situations?
August 13, 2020 at 16:19
Once married you can add your spouse to your case. Read the FAQ on how to do that.
August 3, 2020 at 07:53
Hello Sir,
I read through the comments and I found out this question:
I visited the US on a J1 visa previously and i was able to get Social Security Card but it is written “VALID FOR WORK ONLY WITH DHS AUTHORIZATION” on the card, my question is, do i have to answer yes on the Q on whether i want a new SSN and card?
You advised to answer no to that.
On my DS260 form I answered that I need new SSN card because of the “VALID FOR WORK ONLY WITH DHS AUTHORIZATION” remark.
Now, my form is unlocked in order to make some reviews, I was asked what is the reason to open the form and listed the reason, but now since I read this comment:
Is it bad to ask for new SSN, or I shall also correct that line now when the form is unlocked?
Note that I have not listed that as a reason to open the form?
Thank you.
August 3, 2020 at 19:30
You only get 1 SSN in your life, so you simply need a new card when you have your new status.
August 4, 2020 at 06:52
Thanks.
But then again, I don’t understand why you advised to answer no to the question if we need a new card issued?
August 4, 2020 at 09:33
Hi Alex,
Read this link to understand better the different types of SSN cards.
https://www.ssa.gov/ssnumber/cards.htm
Just like Simon said, you only get one SS number for the rest of your life. When you went to the US on a J1 visa, you received a card that’s for non-immigrants and temporary basis only, that’s why it says it’s valid for work only with dhs authorization. Once you obtain your Greencard you will have to get a new card that doesn’t have anything else written on it, except for your name and your ss-number. (the dhs authorization message doesn’t appear anymore). So to summarize, it’s going to be the exact number, just different card.
August 5, 2020 at 00:36
Kris is exactly correct.
September 24, 2020 at 13:07
Do you need to know the number you had? My husband worked in the US many years ago, but doesn’t remember the number.
August 3, 2020 at 20:11
Hi Brit,
In about 30 days I’ll be unemployed.
If I fill in my DS260 now, is it better to a) write the current company I work at and then unlock the form or b) write unemployed even though that won’t be technically correct at the time of filling in the form.
Thank you.
Natashal
August 4, 2020 at 03:31
Hi Simon, KCC contacted me today to request the documents, after I send them what time does it take approximately for them to tell me that my case is ready for an interview?
August 4, 2020 at 03:48
Their notification time varies, but case numbers are what drives scheduling. However, with the ban in place, you just need to be patient now.
August 4, 2020 at 10:01
Hello Adrian when did you submitted your ds 260 forms and what region are from
August 4, 2020 at 12:12
Please are you dv 2021 winner?
August 4, 2020 at 04:50
Hello Mr. Simon, Good morning, I am texting you because my brother in Cuba is filling out the Diversity Visa’s form and we are stock in the question that ask for information about Any special skill or training in weapons. We are Cubans and in our country Military services is mandatory, for that reason, we received little weapons training, however that training it is not significant and we don’t really have any special skill. The problem is that in the document the government gives to the people who finished the year of service, he was tagged as shooter. Could you please advise us about what to say in this question. Should he say yes even when he doesn’t have any special skill but received some training. In the case we say yes, could that be a problem or a reason for having less opportunities of being accepted? Thanks in advance Sr. sorry for the length of the question, have a wonderful day
August 5, 2020 at 00:24
You have no choice but to be honest.
August 7, 2020 at 01:08
Thank you Sir
August 4, 2020 at 06:44
Hello my Si’mon,hope all is well.
Please in filling my previous address I can’t use “ / “ stroke Symbol , but it is one of my addresses. so please can’t you tell which other way to type “ 201/ A “ in the filling of previous addresses part
August 5, 2020 at 00:27
Try a dash or space.