The wait is finally over! The U.S. Department of State officially released the DV Lottery 2026 results on May 2nd, 2025. If you applied for the Diversity Visa Lottery, this is a life-changing moment—and we’re here to walk you through what happens next.
We know this process can feel overwhelming, especially with so much at stake. Whether you’re still wondering how to check your status or you’ve already seen that beautiful “You have been selected” message, let’s talk about what to do now.
✅ First: How to Check If You Were Selected
IMPORTANT: The U.S. government does not email you about your results. If you get an email saying you’ve won, it’s a scam.
Here’s how to check your results safely:
- Go to the official DV Lottery website: https://dvprogram.state.gov
- Click on “Check Status”
- Enter your Confirmation Number, Last Name, and Year of Birth
- Solve the CAPTCHA and click “Submit”
💡 Don’t have your confirmation number? Unfortunately, there’s no way to recover it. This is why saving or printing your confirmation is so important. But if you do have it—check now!
🎉 If You Were Selected… CONGRATULATIONS! 🎉
This is a big deal. You’ve just taken the first step toward receiving a U.S. Green Card. But keep in mind—being selected doesn’t guarantee a visa. It means you’re eligible to apply for one, and now it’s time to act.
Here’s what to do next:
📄 Step 1: Complete the DS-260 Form
The DS-260 is your online immigrant visa application. It’s long, detailed, and absolutely essential.
You’ll need:
- Your case number (starts with 2026AF, 2026EU, etc.)
- Passport details
- Personal background and family information
✅ Tip: Be honest and accurate. Mistakes can lead to delays or denials.
🕒 Step 2: Wait for Your Interview Invitation
After submitting your DS-260, your file goes into the system to be scheduled for an interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate in your country. This is where your visa eligibility is decided.
But here’s the thing: Timing matters. Your case number determines when your interview is scheduled. Lower numbers usually go first. You’ll need to watch the Visa Bulletin each month to know when your number becomes current.
📁 Step 3: Prepare Supporting Documents
You’ll need:
- Birth certificate
- Police clearance certificate(s)
- Passport(s)
- Educational or work documents (to prove eligibility)
- Medical examination from a U.S.-approved doctor
Start gathering these early. Some can take weeks or months to get!
🧪 Step 4: Medical Exam
This must be done by a designated panel physician, not your regular doctor. You’ll get details from the embassy when your interview is scheduled.
💉 Bring your vaccination records with you if you can.
💬 Step 5: Attend Your Visa Interview
This is the moment you’ve been waiting for. You’ll meet with a consular officer who will review your documents, ask questions, and decide whether to approve your immigrant visa.
🎯 Be prepared, be calm, and be yourself.
🚀 What If You Weren’t Selected?
We know it’s disappointing—and it’s okay to feel that. Thousands of people apply, and only a small percentage are selected. But don’t give up!
- You can apply again next year (applications usually open in October)
- Explore other U.S. visa options like employment-based or family-based immigration
- Stay positive—your journey isn’t over
🧭 Need Help Navigating the Process?
At SAITUS, we’re here to support and guide you. Whether you’ve just found out you were selected or you’re trying to understand your next move, we can help you:
- Understand your case number
- Fill out the DS-260
- Prepare your documents
- Get ready for your interview
📩 Reach out to us anytime. Your journey matters—and we want to see you succeed.
Final Thoughts
Winning the DV Lottery is the start of something big—but it’s also just the beginning of a complex journey. Stay informed, stay prepared, and don’t hesitate to ask for help. At SAITUS, we believe in your dreams, and we’re excited to walk with you every step of the way.
🌟 Your American dream could be closer than you think.