Ready to apply for the DV Lottery 2026? The DV Lottery randomly selects winners from eligible countries, including Nepal, to apply for a U.S. Green Card. It’s free to enter, and thousands of Nepalis apply each year for better education, job opportunities, or family reunification.
This guide walks you through the application process, shares tips, and helps you avoid scams.
Who Can Apply for the DV Lottery from Nepal?
To apply, you must:
- Be a citizen of Nepal (or born in Nepal if living abroad).
- Have at least a high school diploma (12th pass) or two years of work experience in the last five years in a job requiring at least two years of training (e.g., electrician, nurse).
- Not need a passport to apply (but you’ll need one if selected).
- Be able to apply from anywhere, including outside Nepal.
DV Lottery Application Dates for 2026
The DV-2026 application period ran from October 2, 2024, to November 5, 2024. For future years, applications typically open in early October and close in early November. Visit dvprogram.state.gov for exact dates. Apply early to avoid technical issues.
How to Apply for the DV Lottery in Nepal?
Follow these steps to submit your free DV Lottery application online:
Step 1: Visit the Official Website

- Go to dvprogram.state.gov.
- Click “Begin Entry” and solve the captcha to start the form.
Step 2: Enter Your Personal Information

- Provide your full name as it appears on your passport, citizenship certificate, or birth certificate (Last Name, First Name, Middle Name if applicable).
- Enter your gender and date of birth (match your official documents).
- Add your city of birth (optional) and select Nepal as your country of birth.
Step 3: Upload a Compliant Photo

- Your photo must:
- Be taken within the last 6 months.
- Have a plain white or light-colored background.
- Be 600×600 pixels, JPG format, and less than 240 KB.
- Show a neutral expression, no glasses, hats (unless religious), or shadows.
- Face the camera directly.
- Use the photo checker tool on dvprogram.state.gov to verify compliance.
- Tip: Visit photo studios in Kathmandu (Thamel, New Road), Pokhara, or Chitwan. Expect to pay NPR 200–500 for a DV-compliant photo.
DV Lottery Photo Requirements | Specification |
---|---|
Background | Plain white or light-colored |
Head Position | Face straight to the camera |
Lighting | No overexposure, underexposure, or shadows |
Photoshop | Avoid editing |
Face | Neutral expression, not covered by hair |
Head Coverings | Allowed only for religious reasons |
Accessories | Not allowed (e.g., glasses) |
Resolution | 600×600 pixels (square) |
File Size | Maximum 240 KB |
File Format | JPG |
Photo Age | Less than 6 months |
Step 4: Provide Your Mailing Address

- Enter your current address: Tole name, ward number, city, district/province (e.g., Kaski District, Gandaki Province), and postal code.
- Search Google for your city’s postal code if unsure.
- Select Nepal as your country.
Step 5: Add Contact Details

- Provide a personal email address (check it regularly for notifications).
- Phone number is optional but recommended.
- Nepal Tip: Use a reliable email provider (e.g., Gmail) to avoid missing notifications.
Step 6: Submit Education or Work Experience

- Select your highest education level (e.g., high school diploma/12th pass).
- If you don’t have a high school diploma, provide details of two years of qualifying work experience (e.g., jobs requiring training, like electrician or nurse).
- Nepal Tip: Ensure your educational certificates (e.g., SLC/SEE, +2) are ready for verification if selected.
Step 7: Include Family Information

- If married, add your spouse’s full name, date of birth, and photo.
- List all unmarried children under 21 (biological, adopted, or stepchildren), including their details and photos.
- Nepal Tip: Double-check family details to match official documents (e.g., birth or marriage certificates).
Step 8: Review and Submit

- Carefully review all information for errors (e.g., spelling of names, dates).
- Submit your application. Only one entry per person is allowed per year—multiple entries will disqualify you.
After Submitting the Application
After sucessfully, submitting your EDV application form you need,
Save Your Confirmation Number

- After submission, you’ll receive a 16-digit confirmation number.
- Save it securely (print, screenshot, or note it down).
- You’ll need this number to check your results in May 2025.
Tip: Store your confirmation number in multiple places (e.g., phone, email) to avoid losing it.
Check Your Results
Results are typically announced in May of the following year. DV Results 2026 were available from May 3, 2025, on dvprogram.state.gov. To check your Electronic Diversity Visa result you will need your 16-digit confirmation number.
If selected, follow instructions to submit additional documents and schedule a visa interview.
Note: US Government does not provide a list for winner or send email.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Multiple Entries: Submitting more than one application disqualifies you.
- Incorrect Photos: Using old or non-compliant photos is a common reason for rejection.
- Spelling Errors: Mismatched names or dates (e.g., from citizenship or passport) cause issues.
- Losing Confirmation Number: Without it, you can’t check your results.
FAQs
How much does it cost to apply US DV Lottery?
The DV Lottery application fee is free of cos.
Do I need a passport to apply for the DV Lottery?
No, but you’ll need one if selected.
Can I apply if I’m living outside Nepal?
Yes, if you were born in Nepal or are a Nepali citizen (Passport and Citizenship).
What if I make a mistake in my application and submit?
You cannot edit after submission. Apply again next year if disqualified.
Checklist for Nepali DV Lottery Applicants
Step | What to Do |
---|---|
1. Check Eligibility | Confirm you’re a Nepali citizen with a 12th pass or 2 years of work experience |
2. Prepare Photo | Get a recent, color, 600x600px photo with a plain background |
3. Access Website | Visit dvprogram.state.gov during the application period |
4. Fill Form | Enter name, DOB, address, contact, education, and family details |
5. Review & Submit | Verify all info, submit only once |
6. Save Confirmation | Store your confirmation number securely |
7. Check Results | Visit the official website in May to check your status |
For the latest information, always refer to dvprogram.state.gov.