The United States Diversity Visa Lottery, commonly known as the Green Card Lottery, is a U.S. government program that offers 55,000 immigrant visas each year to people from countries with historically low immigration rates to the United States.
Pakistani citizens are eligible for the Diversity Visa (DV) program because Pakistan qualifies as a low-immigration country. Winners obtain the legal right to live, work, and study permanently in the USA.
What are the Key Dates and Information for the USA DV Lottery 2026 (Green Card)
BThe U.S. Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery 2026 provides 55,000 immigrant visas for those born in eligible countries, including Pakistan. Here’s what you need to know:
Important Update: The U.S. may require applicants to upload a valid passport scan for DV-2026. sed requiring applicants to upload a valid passport scan at the time of entry for DV-2026. This rule is not final yet but may affect applicants from Pakistan. Always refer to dvprogram.state.gov for updates.
Entry Period: October 2, 2024 – November 5, 2024
Eligibility: Pakistani citizens are eligible for the 2026 DV Lottery
Application Fee: Free
Winners Announcement: May 2025
Visa Application Window: October 1, 2025 – September 30, 2026
What Are the Eligibility Requirements?
1. Country of Birth
To qualify, you must be born in an eligible country. Pakistan is eligible for DV-2026.
If your birth country is not eligible, you can still qualify if:
- Your spouse was born in an eligible country, or
- Neither of your parents were legal residents of your birth country
2. Education or Work Experience
You must satisfy at least one of these:
- A High school education or equivalent (Inter/HSSC accepted)
- Two years of work experience within the last five years in an occupation requiring at least two years of training
For Pakistani applicants, typical acceptable qualifications include:
- Matric + Intermediate (Science/Arts/Commerce)
- Recognized vocational diplomas with documented training
How to Apply for the Diversity Visa Lottery from Pakistan?
The DV lottery is applied online directly on the official U.S. government site. Below is the Pakistan-focused step-by-step process:
1. Check Eligibility
Confirm:
- Pakistan is eligible
- You meet education or work requirements
2. Gather Required Information
You will need:
- Full legal name (as per passport)
- Date of birth
- City and country of birth
- Passport details (number, issuance, expiry)
- Marital status
- Information for spouse and children
Important for Pakistani applicants:
- List all children, including biological, adopted, and step-children
- You must list your spouse even if they do not plan to immigrate
3. Prepare DV-Lottery Photos
You need recent, biometric-style photos for:
- Yourself
- Your spouse
- Your children
Photo requirements:
- 600×600 pixels
- White background
- Neutral expression
- No blur, shadows, glasses, or editing
4. Fill Out the Online Application
Submit the entry on:
dvprogram.state.gov
Important notes:
- Only one entry per person
- Use correct spellings as per passport
- Enter accurate family information
- Do not use agents who submit multiple entries
5. Save Your Confirmation Number
This is critical. Without it, you cannot check your result in May 2025.
Write it down, screenshot it, and email it to yourself.
What Is the Cost for Pakistani Applicants?
- DV Lottery Entry Fee: Free
- No Pakistani agent, consultant, or lawyer can charge a U.S. government fee for entry.
- If selected, the following costs apply later:
Typical expenses include:
- Visa fee (approx. USD 330 per person)
- Medical exam fee in Pakistan
- Police certificate
- Passport renewal (if needed)
Actual amounts vary based on exchange rates and service fees.
What Is the Timeline?
Key Dates for Pakistani DV Applicants
- October–November 2024: Submit your DV-2026 entry
- May 2025: Check results online
- October 2025 – September 2026: Submit immigrant visa application (DS-260)
- Up to Sept 30, 2026: Visa must be issued
The process typically takes 12–18 months from entry to receiving a visa.
How Does the Selection and Notification Process Work?
- Winners are chosen by a random computer draw
- No email or letter is sent to notify the winners
- You must use your confirmation number to check your status on:
Entrant Status Check Portal
What to Do After Winning the USA Diversity Visa Lottery (Green Card)
If you’re selected for the DV Lottery, here’s what you need to do next:
- Receive a Case Number:
You will get a unique case number that you need to track your application. - Complete the DS-260 Form:
Fill out your immigrant visa application form online (DS-260). - Submit Supporting Documents:
Gather and submit necessary documents such as:- Birth certificate
- Police certificate
- Medical records
- Birth certificate
- Attend Medical Exam:
Schedule a medical exam with an authorized panel physician in Pakistan (Karachi/Islamabad/Lahore). - Attend the Interview:
You will be scheduled for an interview at the U.S. Embassy in Islamabad. - Meet the Visa Requirements:
- Security background checks
- Medical admissibility
- Financial qualifications
- Security background checks
Important: Ensure you meet all immigrant visa requirements to successfully obtain your Green Card.
How Can Go Foreign USA Visa Consultants Help You?
At Go Foreign Visa Consultancts, we simplify the U.S. visa process with expert guidance tailored to your unique needs. From the Diversity Visa Lottery to work and family-based visas, our team ensures your documents are in order and your application is submitted accurately. We also prepare you for interviews and offer continuous support throughout the process. Trust us to make your U.S. visa journey seamless. Get started today with Go Foreign USA Visa Consultants.
How to Avoid Scams?
Be cautious of scammers who target DV Lottery applicants. Here’s how to protect yourself:
- The application is 100% free.
- No U.S. government official will email or call you for lottery results.
- Only use the official website: Always check your results.
- Avoid agents who guarantee selection: The DV Lottery is random, and no one can guarantee you’ll win
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a Pakistani apply without an agent?
Yes. Applying through the official website is simple and free.
Is a passport required?
A valid Pakistani passport may be required for DV-2026 depending on U.S. rule updates.
Can married applicants apply separately?
Yes. Husband and wife can both submit separate entries, doubling chances.
Does DV Lottery allow dependents?
Yes, spouse and unmarried children under 21 are included.
Can I work in the USA after winning?
Yes. Green card holders can work legally for any employer.
