The United States government has announced opening of the Diversity Visa 2016 starting from October 1 (9:45 pm local time in Nepal).

According to a press statement issued by the US Embassy in Kathmandu, the application period for the DV visa lottery application lasts till November 3, 2014 (10:45 pm local time). “We strongly encourage DV program entrants to apply early,” said the statement.

The US embassy has clarified that there is no fee involved to enter the DV lottery.  “The U.S. Embassy recommends against using a consultant to assist you with your application.  Please consider using a family member, friend or other trusted person if you need assistance.  No matter who provides assistance, you are solely responsible for your own application,” the embassy has cautioned.

Applicants may access the electronic Diversity Visa entry form (E-DV) at www.dvlottery.state.gov  during the registration period.

The statement said entries for the 2016 Diversity Visa lottery must be submitted electronically during the registration period. “When registering, it is imperative that you list your spouse and all of your unmarried children under the age of 21 at the time of application.

Submissions without the inclusion of family members will invalidate your entry,” added the statement. The applicants are advised to print and save their confirmation number after registering their application.

Stating that the number is the only way to check application status, the statement has asked the applicants not to give their confirmation number to anyone.  “The only method of determining whether you were selected for the DV is by entering your confirmation number at www.dvlottery.state.gov on or after May 5, 2015,” it said.

Entrants must provide an e-mail address as part of their entry. However, there is no email notification sent to selectees informing them they were selected.