The Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery, also known as the Green Card Lottery, is a golden opportunity for Nepali citizens dreaming of starting a new chapter in the United States. Every year, thousands of hopeful applicants from Nepal submit their entries, hoping to win a chance at permanent residency in the U.S. However, many are unaware of the steps that follow after submitting the application.
If you’ve recently applied for the DV Lottery, you may be wondering, “What comes next?” This guide walks you through the post-application process, ensuring you understand every stage from result announcements to arriving in the United States.
Understanding the DV Lottery in Nepal
Nepal has been a consistent participant in the DV program due to its eligibility as a country with low immigration rates to the U.S. Thousands of Nepalis apply annually, with many succeeding in obtaining the coveted visa. However, winning the lottery doesn’t mean an automatic visa. It’s merely the first step in a structured process that requires preparation and compliance with all U.S. immigration requirements.
What to Expect After Submitting Your DV Application?
After submitting your DV application, patience is key, as the results are not announced until the following year. This waiting period is the ideal time to gather information and prepare yourself for what lies ahead.
Checking the DV Lottery Results
The DV Lottery results are typically announced in May. For Nepali applicants, the results can only be accessed online through the official U.S. Department of State website at dvprogram.state.gov. To check your status, you’ll need the confirmation number provided during your application submission, along with your last name and birth year.
It’s important to note that the U.S. government does not send emails, letters, or messages about your selection. Any such communication claiming you’ve been selected or requesting money is likely fraudulent. Always rely on the official DV website for updates and notifications.
If You Are Selected: Steps to Follow
For the lucky individuals selected in the DV Lottery, the journey toward obtaining a U.S. visa officially begins. However, selection does not guarantee a visa. The next steps are equally critical and must be completed meticulously.
1. Completing the DS-260 Form
The first step after selection is to complete the DS-260 form, the official immigrant visa application. This form is submitted online through the Consular Electronic Application Center (CEAC). You’ll need your case number, which is provided when you check your status, to access the form.
The DS-260 requires you to provide detailed information about your background, family, education, and work experience. Accuracy is crucial here; errors or inconsistencies can lead to delays or disqualification. Once you’ve submitted the form, you’ll receive a confirmation page that must be printed and saved, as it will be required for the visa interview.
2. Scheduling Your Visa Interview
After submitting the DS-260, the Kentucky Consular Center (KCC) will review your application and notify you when your case is ready for the visa interview. Nepali applicants will have their interviews conducted at the U.S. Embassy in Kathmandu.
The embassy will send you an email with the date and time of your interview, so it’s important to check your inbox regularly. The interview date is usually scheduled well in advance, giving you time to prepare.
3. Preparing for the Visa Interview
Before attending the interview, there are a few key steps you must complete to ensure you’re fully prepared.
3.1. Medical Examination
All DV applicants must undergo a mandatory medical examination conducted by clinics authorized by the U.S. Embassy in Kathmandu. These clinics are the only ones recognized for this purpose.
The medical exam typically includes physical checks, vaccinations, and X-rays. The approximate cost for the medical exam in Nepal ranges between NPR 25,000 to 30,000 per person, depending on the age and specific requirements.
You’ll need to bring your passport, vaccination records, and appointment letter to the medical exam. Once completed, the results will either be sent directly to the embassy or given to you in a sealed envelope, which you must not open.
3.2. Gathering Required Documents
Ensuring that all your documents are complete and accurate is critical. Missing or incorrect paperwork can result in delays or even denial of your visa. For Nepali applicants, the required documents typically include:
- A valid passport.
- Birth certificates, translated into English if originally in Nepali.
- High school certificates or equivalent education documents.
- Police clearance certificates to prove you have no criminal record.
- Marriage certificates (if applicable).
- Financial documents or an affidavit of support to demonstrate you won’t become a public charge in the U.S.
While gathering these documents, make sure all translations are certified and accurate.
3.3. Attending the Interview
The visa interview at the U.S. Embassy in Kathmandu is a crucial step. During the interview, a consular officer will verify your eligibility and review your documents. You will also be asked questions about your education, work experience, and intentions in the United States.
The interview process is straightforward, but honesty and confidence are key. Be truthful in your answers, as any discrepancies can result in a visa denial.
If your visa is approved, you’ll be informed at the end of the interview. You’ll then be given instructions on collecting your passport with the visa stamp. If additional documents are required, the embassy will notify you and hold your case until they are provided.
After the Visa Approval
Upon approval, your visa will be valid for six months, during which you must travel to the U.S. Before your departure, you’ll need to pay the USCIS immigrant fee, which covers the cost of processing your Green Card.
Once you arrive in the United States, you’ll need to present your visa packet to the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer at the port of entry. This officer will process your documents and officially admit you into the country.
Your Green Card will then be mailed to the U.S. address you provided during the application process. This card serves as proof of your permanent residency.
What If You’re Not Selected?
For those who aren’t selected, it’s important to remember that the DV program is just one of many pathways to the United States. You can always reapply for the next cycle of the DV Lottery. Additionally, you can explore other options, such as family-based immigration, employment-based visas, or student visas.
Challenges Faced by Nepali DV Applicants
Navigating the DV process in Nepal can come with challenges. Fraudulent agencies are a significant concern, as they often prey on hopeful applicants by promising guaranteed selection or visas in exchange for money. Always rely on official resources and avoid unauthorized intermediaries.
Another common issue is document preparation. Many applicants face delays due to incomplete or incorrectly translated documents. Taking the time to ensure all paperwork is in order can prevent unnecessary setbacks.
Final Thoughts
Applying for the DV Lottery is an exciting opportunity for Nepali citizens, but the journey doesn’t end with submitting the application. From checking your results to completing the visa interview, each step requires careful attention and preparation.
If you’re selected, the process may seem overwhelming at first, but with proper planning, you can successfully navigate it and turn your American dream into reality. And for those who don’t get selected this time, remember that persistence and exploring alternative pathways can still lead you to your goal.
The Diversity Visa program is a beacon of hope for many Nepalis, and with the right information and effort, it can pave the way for a brighter future in the United States. Best of luck to all applicants!
