How to Claim Your Green Card Lottery Win – A Step-by-Step Guide

Winning the Green Card Lottery (DV Lottery) is a life-changing opportunity—but what happens next? Many applicants get overwhelmed by the paperwork, interviews, and deadlines. If you’ve received the exciting news that you’ve been selected, this step-by-step guide will walk you through everything you need to do to claim your Green Card and move to the U.S. legally.

The Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery grants 55,000 immigrant visas annually, allowing winners and their families to live and work permanently in the United States. However, simply winning doesn’t guarantee a Green Card—you must complete a series of critical steps, from submitting forms to attending a visa interview. Missing a deadline or providing incorrect documents can lead to disqualification. This guide ensures you avoid mistakes and successfully secure your U.S. residency.

Step 1: Verify Your Selection & Check Your Case Number

After winning the DV Lottery, your first step is to confirm your selection on the official DV Lottery Entrant Status Check website. You’ll need your confirmation number (from your original entry) to access your status. If selected, you’ll see a notification with your case number, which you’ll use throughout the process.

• Double-check your name, birth date, and country of chargeability (the country you applied from). Any errors could cause delays or rejection.

• If your family members were included in the original entry, they must also be processed.

• Print or save your selection letter—you’ll need it for future steps.

If you didn’t win, consider reapplying in the next DV Lottery cycle or exploring other U.S. immigration pathways, such as work or family-sponsored visas.

Step 2: Submit Form DS-260 (Online Immigrant Visa Application)

The DS-260 form is your official application for an immigrant visa. You must complete it online via the Consular Electronic Application Center (CEAC).

• Fill in accurate personal, work, and travel history—any discrepancies could lead to denial.

• Include all family members listed in your original DV Lottery entry.

• Submit the form as early as possible—delays can push back your interview date.

After submission, you’ll receive a confirmation page. Save this, as you’ll need it for your visa interview.

Step 3: Gather Required Documents

The U.S. government requires extensive documentation to process your Green Card. Start collecting these as soon as possible to avoid last-minute delays.

Essential Documents Include:

✅ Valid passport (with at least 6 months’ validity)
✅ Original birth certificate (translated if not in English)
✅ Police clearance certificates (from every country you’ve lived in for 6+ months since age 16)
✅ Marriage/divorce certificates (if applicable)
✅ Military records (if you served)
✅ Proof of education or work experience (meeting DV Lottery requirements)
✅ Two passport-style photos (2x2 inches, white background)

Missing documents are the #1 reason for visa denials, so verify everything before your interview.

Step 4: Complete the Medical Examination

Before your visa interview, you must undergo a medical exam with an approved panel physician.

• Locate an authorized doctor via the U.S. embassy’s website in your country.

• The exam includes a physical check-up, vaccinations, and TB/HIV testing.

• Results are sealed in an envelope—do NOT open it; bring it to your interview.

Failing the medical exam (e.g., due to certain health conditions) can lead to visa denial, so address any health concerns beforehand.

Step 5: Attend the Visa Interview at the U.S. Embassy/Consulate

The final and most critical step is your visa interview. The embassy will schedule it after reviewing your DS-260 and documents.

Interview Checklist:

✔ Original and photocopies of all documents
✔ Medical exam results (unopened)
✔ DV Lottery selection confirmation
✔ Interview appointment letter
✔ Proof of financial stability (to avoid becoming a public charge)

Common Interview Questions:

• Why do you want to move to the U.S.?

• Do you have family or job prospects there?

• Have you ever been denied a U.S. visa before?

Answer honestly and confidently—consular officers assess whether you’ll comply with U.S. immigration laws.

Step 6: Pay the USCIS Immigrant Fee & Enter the U.S.

If approved, you’ll receive an immigrant visa stamped in your passport.

• Pay the $220 USCIS immigrant fee online before traveling.

• Your visa will have an expiration date (usually 6 months)—you must enter the U.S. before it expires.

• Upon arrival, a Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer will activate your Green Card status.

Step 7: Receive Your Physical Green Card

After entering the U.S., your permanent resident card (Green Card) will be mailed to your U.S. address within 3 months.

• Track your Green Card status via your USCIS online account.

• If it doesn’t arrive, contact USCIS to avoid legal complications.

Step 8: Next Steps After Moving to the U.S.

Once you have your Green Card:

✅ Apply for a Social Security Number (SSN) (if not automatically mailed).
✅ Get a state ID or driver’s license.
✅ Consider applying for citizenship after 5 years (or 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen).

Conclusion

Winning the Green Card Lottery is just the beginning—the real challenge is navigating the visa process successfully. By following this step-by-step guide, you’ll avoid common mistakes and secure your U.S. residency smoothly. From submitting the DS-260 form to acing your interview, each step brings you closer to your American dream.

Ready to take the next step? Bookmark this guide, gather your documents, and start your journey to the U.S.! If you need help, consult an immigration attorney for personalized advice. 🚀