What is the best time to apply for the DV lottery?

If you dream of living in the United States, the Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery might be your golden ticket. Every year, millions of hopefuls apply for this program, but only a small number are selected. The key to boosting your chances isn’t luck. It’s timing and preparation.

The Best Time to Apply

The DV Lottery opens once a year, typically between early October and early November. For example, the DV-2026 program accepted applications from October 2 to November 7, 2024. You can expect the DV-2027 window to follow a similar schedule in October 2025.

Mark your calendar and apply as soon as the portal opens at dvprogram.state.gov. Don’t wait until the last week as traffic on the site usually spikes, and slowdowns can make submission stressful or even impossible.

Why Early Application Matters

Applying early doesn’t change your odds of being selected, but it does give you peace of mind. Here’s why it matters:

Avoid website crashes in the final days.

Double-check your information before submission.

Secure your confirmation number without panic.

It’s a simple rule: the earlier, the better.

Quick Tips Before You Apply

Follow the photo and form instructions carefully. Small errors can disqualify you.

Save your confirmation number. It’s the only way to check your status in May.

Stay alert for scams. The U.S. government never emails winners directly.

The Big Picture

Every year, the DV Lottery opens doors for about 55,000 people from eligible countries to start a new life in the U.S. It’s free, fair, and based on a random selection, but your preparation can make all the difference.

If you’re serious about applying, set a reminder for October. Gather your documents early, use the official site, and hit “submit” before the rush. Your journey to the American dream might just start with that one click.

How to take passport photo in 5 steps?

Step 1: Use a digital camera or a smartphone to take a photo

Find someone to take the photo for you and selfie photo is not acceptable for passport photo application. If you have a tripod, use it. A tripod will make it easier to keep the camera steady and level. The distance of the person to the camera should be around 1 meter.

Step 2: Find a venue with good lighting

When taking photo, you should face the light, such as a nice bright window or the door. This can provide even lighting to avoid shadows on the face and background. The face must be evenly lit. There should be no shadows and glares on the face.

Note: No need to worry about the background as our online passport photo generator will automatically remove or change the background for you.

unacceptable passport photo

Step 3: Wear properly for your passport photo

Do not wear uniforms. Wear regular street clothes in your photo.

Do not wear eyeglasses. If you wear glasses, sunglasses, or tinted glasses, take them off for your passport photo.

Your face must still be fully visible. Don’t let your hair drape over your face and obscure your eyes. If you have very long bangs that cover your eyebrows, you should pin them back with bobby pins. It’s best if your ears show, as well, but that won’t cause your photo to be rejected.

No hats are allowed in passport photos unless it is religious headgear such as a headscarf or yarmulke that you wear every day.

acceptable passport photo