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How to Apply for the U.S. Green Card Lottery from Germany (Step-by-Step Guide)
Every year, thousands of hopefuls from around the world enter the U.S. Diversity Visa Lottery—commonly known as the Green Card Lottery—for a shot at living and working in the United States. If you’re living in Germany and dream of moving to America, this guide explains everything you need to know about applying for the U.S. Green Card Lottery from Germany.
What Is the Green Card Lottery?
The Diversity Immigrant Visa (DV) Program—often referred to as the Green Card Lottery—was created to promote immigration from countries with historically low rates of immigration to the U.S. Each year, the U.S. government randomly selects around 55,000 applicants from eligible countries, offering them the opportunity to apply for permanent residency.
Can Germans Apply?
Yes, citizens of Germany are eligible to enter the Green Card Lottery. Germany qualifies because it does not exceed the annual threshold of immigrants to the U.S. That means if you were born in Germany, regardless of your current citizenship, you can participate.
Even if you live outside Germany (such as in the U.S. or another country), your country of birth—not your residence—determines your eligibility.
Basic Requirements to Enter
To be eligible for the DV Lottery, you must meet two basic requirements:
1. Country of Eligibility: You must be born in an eligible country like Germany.
2. Education or Work Experience: You must have:
• A high school education or its equivalent (12 years of formal education), or
• At least two years of qualifying work experience within the last five years in an occupation that requires at least two years of training or experience.
When and How to Apply
The application period for the Green Card Lottery typically runs from early October to early November each year. For example, the DV-2026 program opened in October 2024 and closed in November 2024.
To apply, visit the official U.S. government website during the registration window. The only accepted method of entry is through the online portal—no paper applications are allowed. Most importantly, it’s completely free to apply, so avoid third-party services that charge fees or promise guaranteed results.
After submitting your application, you’ll receive a confirmation number. This number is essential for checking your status and should be saved securely.
What Happens After You Apply
Winners are selected randomly by a computer and announced the following May. If you applied during the October–November window, you’ll be able to check your status starting in May of the next year by using your confirmation number on the official Entrant Status Check website.
If you are selected, you’re not guaranteed a Green Card—but you are given the opportunity to formally apply for one through the U.S. embassy or consulate. For applicants in Germany, this process usually takes place at the U.S. Consulate in Frankfurt or Berlin.
The Consular Interview and Final Steps
Once selected, you’ll need to submit supporting documents, complete a medical exam, pay government fees, and attend a visa interview at the U.S. consulate. This step is critical—your documents and answers must be accurate and truthful.
If everything checks out, you’ll be issued an immigrant visa, which allows you to travel to the United States and receive your Green Card shortly after arrival.
Tips to Maximize Your Chances
• Only one entry per person is allowed. Submitting more than one entry will disqualify you.
• If you’re married, both you and your spouse can each submit separate entries—doubling your family’s chances.
• Keep your confirmation number safe. Without it, you cannot check your selection status.
• Don’t fall for scams. The U.S. government never emails or calls winners. All notifications are handled solely through the Entrant Status Check portal.
Final Thoughts
The U.S. Green Card Lottery is one of the few ways to immigrate to the United States without a job offer or family sponsorship. For many in Germany, it offers a life-changing opportunity to pursue new freedoms, career growth, and the American dream.
If you’re eligible, mark your calendar for October and prepare your documents in advance. With a little luck—and a well-prepared application—you could be on your way to a new life in the United States.
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