Green Card Lottery: Interview questions and answers

If you're moving forward in the Green Card Lottery, your next big step is the interview.

The Green Card or Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery interview isn't just another appointment; it's a step closer to making your dream of living in the US a reality. Preparing well for this interview can make a big difference; if you’re not successful, your visa application may be delayed or even denied.

We'll explain what to expect so you'll know how to provide answers that present you as the ideal candidate for the Diversity Visa. Let’s get started.

What is the DV Lottery interview?

The DV Lottery interview assesses your eligibility to migrate to the USA and whether your intentions are genuine. It’s conducted at a US embassy or consulate and is the final hurdle before potentially receiving a US Diversity Visa, which grants legal permanent residency in the country.

If you're selected in the DV Lottery, you must fill out the DS-260 form online, which is the Immigrant Visa and Alien Registration Application. Once you submit this form to the Kentucky Consular Center (KCC), it will be reviewed for accuracy. If everything is in order, you’ll be notified via email about your interview.

The main applicant must attend the interview in person. If you’re applying with your spouse and children, they must also attend the visa interview. Before the interview, you (and your family members) must have a medical exam done by an authorized doctor. The results of this exam, which are typically sealed in an envelope or sent directly to the embassy by the doctor, must be presented at the interview.

Apart from the results of the medical exam, you’ll also need to bring the following to your interview:

• Printed appointment information from the Entrant Status Check on the E-DV website.

• Confirmation page of the completed DS-260 form.

• Valid passport for six months beyond the intended date of entry into the US for you and each family member applying for a visa.

• Original or certified copies of documents submitted to the KCC, plus one photocopy of any document you didn’t already submit but want to present during the interview.

DV Lottery interview: Common questions and answers

During your brief interview, a consular officer will ask you a range of questions to confirm your eligibility for a Diversity Visa and ensure that you’re not inadmissible. Here are some common themes and sample answers to help you prepare.

Why do you want to immigrate to the United States?

About this question: It checks your interest in moving to the US. Focus on positive answers, like job opportunities or educational benefits.

Example answer: "I want to move to the US because there are more job opportunities in my field, and I also have family in Texas. Being with family and working in a field I love are both really important to me."

Who in your family will be moving with you to the United States?

About this question: This helps the interviewer understand which family members are coming with you.

Example answer: "My wife and our two children will come with me. We've decided as a family that moving will give our kids better schools and let us live closer to my sister in New York."

What is your highest level of education, and can you tell us about your current job?

About this question: They want to know about your education and current job to see how you might fit into the US job market. Don't exaggerate or provide false information. Make sure your answer matches the information you provided in your application.

Example answer: "I have a master's in Public Health and currently manage health programs in Ghana. I believe my skills will be beneficial in the U.S., and I'm eager to bring my expertise there.”

What are your plans once you arrive in the United States?

About this question: This is to see if you've thought through your move and have specific plans for your life in the US. Avoid vague or unrealistic goals. Outline concrete plans such as employment, education, or settling down with family.

Example answer: "I plan to work in public health when I arrive. I’ve connected with potential employers in Maryland and am also looking into further certification to enhance my skills."

How do you plan to support yourself and your family in the United States?

About this question: This checks how you will manage financially in the US. Show that you have a well-thought-out financial plan or support system. Don't give the impression of financial instability or plans to rely on public funds.

Example answer: "I've lined up a job in healthcare, which will support us. We also have savings for extra security as we settle, and my wife is applying for IT jobs."

Have you ever faced legal issues or significant health concerns?

About this question: It's important to ensure you have no legal or health barriers to entering the USA.

Example answer: "No, I have no legal issues and I'm in good health, which I know are both important for my application and life in the US."

By preparing thoughtful, honest answers to these types of questions, you’ll be able to present a clear and positive picture of your intentions and readiness to move to the USA.

What happens after the Green Card Lottery interview?

If your visa application is approved, the consular officer will explain how and when you will receive your passport with the visa. You must enter the US before your visa expires, which is typically six months from the date it’s issued.

If your visa application is denied, the officer will explain why and whether you can fix the problem. Some issues might be resolved by providing additional documents. If your case requires more review, it might go through administrative processing, which can delay the decision. We advise you to consult with an immigration lawyer, who will guide you on the next steps to take.

Get support for your Green Card Lottery application

Although the entry period for the Green Card Lottery is early October through early November, you can apply with us at any time of the year, and we'll submit your application once the registration period opens. Contact us any time via WhatsApp or through the iVisa chat.