DV Lottery (Visa Lottery) Scams — Application is FREE
DV Lottery entry is COMPLETELY FREE. Scammers charge $100-$1000 to file 'on your behalf'. State Dept never emails winners. How to spot and avoid.
DV Lottery (Visa Lottery) Scams — Application is FREE
DV Lottery is FREE — submit yourself at dvprogram.state.gov during October-November window.
State Department NEVER sends emails to winners. Only way to check is at dvprogram.state.gov/ESC using your confirmation number.
Common scams:
- “We’ll enter you” for $100-$1000 fee
- “You won — pay processing fee” (FAKE)
- “Need to verify your win — pay fee” (FAKE)
- “Premium DV services” (BS — entry is FREE)
Report: state.gov/dvscams
General consumer protection resources
- FTC Consumer Complaint: reportfraud.ftc.gov
- Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB): consumerfinance.gov/complaint
- State Attorney General (varies by state)
- Better Business Bureau: bbb.org
Related information
Last verified: 2026-05-25.
General prevention information — not legal advice. If victimized, consult attorney for options.
Related procedural information
- Consulate of your country in the US — passport renewal, consular ID, document apostille
- ITIN — file federal taxes without SSN — required regardless of immigration status
- USCIS form library — federal immigration forms (I-130, I-485, N-400, etc.)
- Find an immigration attorney — pro bono lists + AILA + BIA-recognized
- Know Your Rights — ICE encounters — constitutional protections
Frequently asked questions
If I was victimized, can I recover the money?
How can I verify an attorney/consultant is legitimate?
I'm reporting — will I get deported?
How much does talking to a real immigration attorney cost?
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General information, not legal advice. MigrantUSA is an independent publisher and is not a law firm; using this site does not create an attorney-client relationship, and this content is not a substitute for advice from a licensed attorney about your specific situation. US federal, state, and local government procedures, fees, and forms change. Always verify current details directly with the relevant agency before acting. For immigration, tax, or other legal matters specific to your situation, consult a licensed attorney or BIA-accredited representative.