DOS Cable on Post Inquiries for DV Lottery Assistance

Subject: Inquiries Re DV Lottery "Assistance"

Ref: 94 State 303808

1. A number of posts have expressed concern about advertisements or solicitations offering visa lottery assistance, and sometimes impossible assurances, for a fee. Previous guidance on this subject still applies (Reftel Aldac of November 10, 1994, "Diversity Lottery: Public Guidance on Using Outside Consultants").

2. Posts may draw from Reftel and the following additional talking points in combatting misrepresentations:

--Present legislation provides for an annual visa lottery, but a lottery has not yet been announced for fisc year 1997.

While there is ongoing consideration in Congress to change or eliminate the Diversity Lottery, at this time we are planning for a DV-97 Lottery. The Department will announce the registration period for DV-97 before the end of the year.

--The Embassy is aware of advertisements or solicitations offering to assist persons in applying for the visa lottery for a fee. The Embassy wishes to point out that the procedure used for applying is very simple and is designed to be done without assistance. The basic application procedure must be followed, but there are no other actions that either an applicant or a firm representing an applicant can take that will improve the chances of success.

--Although it is each individual's decision whether to pay a fee for assistance in making this simple application, the Department of State expects most people to be able to complete it easily without assistance and make no recommendation about whether an attorney or consultant should be used.

-- Claims of improved chances other than by following the few, simple instructions should be viewed with scepticism.

--The Department of State does not endorse any person or organization for the purpose of assisting with visa lottery applications.

3. Minimize considered.

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