1. What is the National Visa Center (NVC) Processing?

The National Visa Center (NVC) Processing is the second stage in the U.S. immigration process. It is a centralized processing facility that receives, reviews, and stores all the documents necessary for an immigrant visa application. The NVC processes all immigrant visa applications that are submitted to the U.S. Department of State from around the world, including those for family-sponsored and employment-based visa categories. As part of the application process, applicants must pay fees, submit documents, and provide biometrics data before their visa applications can be reviewed. Once NVC processing is complete, applicants can be scheduled for an interview at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate abroad.

2. What documents do I need to submit to the NVC for Diversity Visa Lottery selectees?

For Diversity Visa Lottery selectees, the documents that must be submitted to the NVC include:

1. A copy of your valid passport
2. A completed and signed Form DS-260, Immigrant Visa Application
3. A copy of your marriage certificate (if applicable)
4. A copy of your birth certificate
5. A copy of any court and/or police records (for all adults, ages 18 and over)
6. Two passport-style photos
7. Evidence of financial support (e.g. bank statements)
8. A copy of your medical exam results
9. Any additional documents requested by the NVC

3. How does the NVC process the Diversity Visa Lottery applications?

The NVC processes Diversity Visa Lottery applications in several stages: pre-processing, interview scheduling, interview preparation, and visa issuance. During the pre-processing stage, the NVC reviews applications for completeness and accuracy. If an application is missing information or contains errors, it is returned to the applicant. During the interview scheduling stage, the NVC sends interview appointment letters to qualified applicants. During the interview preparation stage, the applicant prepares for the interview. During the visa issuance stage, if approved by the consular officer at the interview, the NVC issues a Diversity Visa.

4. What is the timeline for NVC processing of diversity visa lottery cases?

The National Visa Center (NVC) is the agency responsible for processing diversity visa lottery cases. The timeline for NVC processing for DV lottery cases typically starts from the time you submit your application and supporting documents to the Department of State. The NVC will typically review and evaluate your application within 2-3 months and will then send you a notification to schedule an interview at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate in your home country. After your interview, it may take the NVC up to several weeks to process your case before a final decision is made.

5. How soon will I receive notification from the NVC regarding my Visa Lottery application?

The Department of State typically notifies successful Diversity Visa applicants between May and July of the year following the fiscal year in which the application was submitted.

6. Are there any fees associated with NVC processing of Diversity Visa Lottery applications?

No, there are no fees associated with NVC processing of Diversity Visa Lottery applications. All applicants will be required to pay the applicable immigrant visa application processing fee when their application is approved.

7. What is the process for submitting documents, fees and forms to the NVC?

The process for submitting documents, fees, and forms to the NVC depends on the immigrant’s case type. Generally, however, applicants will first need to pay their visa fees, then complete and submit the necessary forms online or by mail. After this, they will need to gather all required documents and submit them to the NVC for review. Depending on the case type and country, applicants may need to also complete additional steps such as obtaining a police certificate or attending an interview at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

8. What is the visa interview process at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate?

The visa interview process at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate is conducted by a consular officer who will ask questions to determine the applicant’s eligibility for the visa. The applicant will need to demonstrate to the consular officer that they meet all of the requirements for the visa they are applying for and provide proof of their identity and other relevant documentation. The consular officer will also ask questions to confirm the information provided in the visa application and may ask additional questions based on the facts of the case. At the end of the interview, the consular officer may grant or deny the visa.

9. How long will it take to receive a decision on my visa application?

The processing time for visa applications can vary, depending on the type of visa you are applying for. You can use the Department of Home Affairs website to view the current processing times for your visa.

10. Are there any special requirements for Diversity Visa Lottery selectees during the visa interview process?

Yes, there are special requirements for Diversity Visa Lottery selectees during the visa interview process. The applicant must provide a valid passport and proof of eligibility, such as copies of selection letter and entry confirmation number. The applicant must also provide documentary evidence of education, work experience, and other relevant information. Additionally, the applicant must demonstrate sufficient English language skills to support their ability to work and live in the US.

11. Can I bring a family member with me to my visa interview?

No, only the applicant is permitted to enter the embassy or consulate for the visa interview.

12. What happens if my visa application is denied by the U.S. Embassy or Consulate?

If your visa application is denied by the U.S. Embassy or Consulate, you will be given a written explanation of the reason for the denial. There may be some options available to you, such as filing an appeal or reapplying with additional documents or information.

13. What should I do if I am found ineligible for a visa during the visa interview process?

If you are found ineligible for a visa during the visa interview process, the consular officer will explain why you are ineligible and provide you with a written notice outlining the reason. Depending on the eligibility issue, there may be options available to you such as reapplying for the visa or submitting additional documentation. You can contact the embassy or consulate for more information on how to proceed.

14. How can I check on the status of my visa application after submitting it to NVC?

After submitting your visa application to the National Visa Center (NVC), you can check the status of your application by calling the NVC at 1-603-334-0700. In addition, you can check the status online at https://ceac.state.gov/CEACStatTracker.

15. Do I need an attorney to assist me with my Diversity Visa Lottery application?

It is not required that you have an attorney to assist you with your Diversity Visa Lottery application. However, it may be beneficial to consult with an experienced immigration attorney to ensure that your application is completed correctly and all necessary documents are submitted.

16. Are there any special considerations for applicants whose family members have already been granted visas through the Diversity Visa Lottery program?

Yes, depending on the family member’s status. Applicants who have a spouse or parent who have been granted a visa as a result of the Diversity Visa Lottery program are exempt from the numerical limits imposed by immigration law and are entitled to permanent resident status.

17. Will my application be processed faster if I hire an immigration lawyer?

No, processing times depend on the government’s workload and availability. While an immigration lawyer may be able to provide helpful advice in completing the application and provide general guidance, they do not have any special ability to speed up the process.

18. Are there any restrictions on how many times I can apply for a Diversity Visa Lottery each year?

No. You can apply as many times as you would like each year.

19. Will my chances of getting selected in the Diversity Visa Lottery improve if I reapply next year after being denied this year?

No, your chances of getting selected in the Diversity Visa Lottery do not improve if you reapply the following year after being denied. Each year, the lottery selects a new set of applicants and it is a completely random process that cannot be influenced.

20. Is it necessary to attend an interview after I am selected in the Diversity Visa Lottery program?

The Diversity Visa Lottery program does not require applicants to attend an interview. However, applicants who are selected for further processing must still complete the process and provide the required documents for a visa application, so it is possible that an interview will be required.