What to do if you were a winner of the Visa Lottery to reside in the United States? (VIDEO)

This Saturday the results of the 2025 Diversity Visa Lottery were announced, in which more than 55,000 cards were raffled off. permanent residence for potential emigrants from certain countries.

Thousands of people have been waiting for the results of this lottery. At Martí Noticias we interview the immigration lawyer Rosaly Chavianowho made important recommendations for the winners.

What to do if you were selected?

1. Confirm your selection: Check the details on the official website to make sure you have really been selected. Use your confirmation number to access the information.
2. Check the online instructions: Once your selection is confirmed, you will receive specific instructions through the Diversity Visa Program website. It is important to read and follow these instructions carefully.
3. Complete Form DS-260: You must fill out form DS-260, which is the Electronic Application for Immigrant Visa and Foreigner Registration, available on the website of the Consular Electronic Documentation Center of the US Department of State.
4. Send the required documentation: You will need to compile and submit the necessary documentation to support your application, including passports, proof of education or work experience, and civil documents such as birth and marriage certificates.
5. Prepare for the interview: You will be summoned for an interview at the nearest US consulate or embassy. For the interview, it is crucial to bring all original documents and copies as instructed.
6. Perform medical exams: Before the interview, you will need to undergo a medical examination by a doctor authorized by the embassy.
7. Attend the interview: During the interview, a consular officer will evaluate your case and determine if you meet the requirements to receive an immigrant visa.
8. Wait for the decision: After the interview, the consulate will process your application. If everything is in order, you will be notified when your visa is ready to be picked up.
9. Pay the immigrant visa fee: This fee must be paid after the interview, if your visa is approved and before the visa can be issued.
10. Plan your trip: Once you receive your visa, you can organize your trip to the United States. Remember that you must enter the US before the visa expiration date.

If you were not chosen in the visa lottery, what to do?

If you were not selected in the Visa Lottery drawing, it is natural to feel disappointed, but there are several options and considerations for the future:

1. Reapply: You can participate in the Visa Lottery each year, as long as the program is still active and your country is eligible. Registration usually opens in October of each year, so keep an eye on the dates and requirements for the next edition.
2. Check the eligibility requirements: Make sure you meet the basic requirements before reapplying. The main requirements include:
   • Be a native of an eligible country or have a spouse born in an eligible country.
   • Have at least a high school diploma or its equivalent, or two years of work experience in the last five years in an occupation that requires at least two years of training or experience.
3. Prepare a solid application: Make sure you meet all application requirements, including an appropriate photograph and correct personal information. Errors in the application may be a reason for disqualification.
4. Explore other visa options: The Visa Lottery is not the only way to immigrate to the United States. You can investigate other visa categories, such as work visas, student visas, investor visas, or family visas if you have close family members who are US citizens or legal permanent residents.
5. Consult with an immigration expert: An immigration lawyer or specialist advisor can offer guidance on other possible routes to immigrate to the United States and help you prepare a strong application in the future.
6. Stay informed: Immigration policies can change, so it is important to stay informed about the latest news and updates related to immigration to the United States.