DV Lottery (Diversity Visa Programme)

An annual US programme that issues 55,000 immigrant visas to nationals of countries with historically low rates of immigration to the United States. Applicants register for free during a six-week window each autumn (DV-2026 entry period was October–November 2024); selectees are chosen by random computer draw and notified the following May. Selection does not guarantee a visa: applicants must still satisfy education or work-experience requirements (high-school equivalent or two years' qualifying experience) and pass consular processing. Demand vastly exceeds supply, with success rates of well under 1% in most years.