How much does the Diversity Visa Lottery cost?

Government filing fees for the Diversity Visa Lottery total approximately $330. On top of that, most applicants budget for document translations, credential assessments, language tests, and medical exams. Professional (lawyer or consultant) help is optional and typically adds several thousand dollars.

Can I apply for the DV Lottery without a lawyer?

Yes — the Diversity Visa Lottery can be self-filed. The official forms and instructions are published by the government. Many applicants self-file successfully; complex histories (refusals, inadmissibility, gaps in evidence) are where professional help earns its fee.

Are DV Lottery fees refundable if I'm refused?

Generally no — government filing fees are processing fees, not success fees, and are not refunded on refusal. This is why confirming you meet the mandatory requirements before filing matters.

🇺🇸 United States · DV Lottery

Diversity Visa Lottery: Costs & fees

Government fees of roughly $330, plus the supporting costs nobody warns you about — here is the realistic budget for the DV Lottery.

Government filing fees

$330

approximate total, per principal applicant

Fees change periodically — always confirm against the official government fee schedule before paying. Figures shown in US dollars.

Costs beyond the filing fee

Language tests (IELTS, PTE, etc.)$200–$340 per attempt

Credential / skills assessment$200–$700 depending on assessing body

Document translations$25–$75 per page, certified

Medical examination$200–$500 per person (panel physician)

Police certificates$0–$100 per country of residence

Optional: lawyer or licensed consultant$2,000–$10,000+ depending on complexity

Are you eligible for the DV Lottery?

Answer a few questions and get scored against this pathway — and the other 46 we track across the US, Canada, UK, and Australia. Free, no credit card.

Check my eligibility — free

Free eligibility check

Could the Diversity Visa Lottery work for you?

Get your personalized eligibility report for the US, Canada, UK, and Australia — scored against today's actual rules. No credit card needed.

We only email you about your report and major rule changes. Unsubscribe anytime.