Welcome! If you’ve received your Diversity Visa Second Notification Letter (2NL), congratulations on reaching this exciting milestone. In this conversational guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about the DV 2NL and the immigrant visa interview process. From understanding what the 2NL means and the steps to take next, to preparing all your documents and acing the interview, we’ve got you covered. This information is up-to-date as of February 2025 and pulls from official U.S. Department of State and embassy guidance to ensure you have the latest facts. So grab a cup of coffee, and let’s dive in!
What Is the DV 2NL (Second Notification Letter) and Why Is It Important?
The DV 2NL is the official Second Notification Letter you receive after the Kentucky Consular Center (KCC) schedules your visa interview. In the DV Lottery process, the 2NL is essentially your appointment letter. It usually comes as an email prompting you to log into the Electronic Diversity Visa website’s Entrant Status Check, where you’ll find the date, time, and location of your U.S. embassy/consulate interview.
- Why It Matters:
- It confirms that a visa interview slot (and visa number) has been allocated to you.
- It is your golden ticket to the final phase of the DV journey.
- It includes important details such as the list of family members (spouse and children) who must attend.
Read your 2NL carefully. It instructs you to print your interview appointment details, lists the family members required to attend, and sets the stage for your upcoming immigrant visa interview.
Steps to Take After Receiving Your 2NL
Receiving your 2NL is exciting—but what comes next? Follow these step-by-step instructions to ensure you’re fully prepared for your interview:
1. Review Your Interview Details and Instructions
- Log in to the DV Entrant Status Check:
Note the exact date, time, and address of your interview. - Print and Organize:
Print the appointment notice and keep it with your important documents. - Check Embassy-Specific Instructions:
Visit your U.S. Embassy or Consulate website for any additional instructions (e.g., pre-interview checklist, courier service registration, or local interview scheduling requirements). - Plan Your Travel:
Mark your calendar and plan your travel for the interview day. If any issues arise with the scheduled date, contact the embassy immediately. Remember, delaying the interview can be risky since all DV visas must be issued by September 30 of the program year.
2. Schedule Your Medical Examination
- Book Early:
Schedule your immigrant visa medical exam with a panel physician authorized by the U.S. embassy as soon as you receive your 2NL. - Prepare for the Exam:
Bring your passport, appointment letter, vaccination records, and case number. - Timing Is Key:
Complete the medical at least a week or two before your interview to ensure the results are ready on time. - Handling Results:
Some physicians give you a sealed envelope with your results (do not open it), while others send them directly to the embassy.
3. Gather All Required Documents
Begin collecting the documents you and your family need to present at the interview. These typically include:
- Original civil documents (passports, birth certificates, marriage/divorce certificates, police certificates, etc.)
- Certified translations for any document not in English (or the official language of the interviewing post)
- A photocopy of your DS-260 confirmation page
It’s best to organize these in a folder or binder with labeled sections. Start early—some documents (like police certificates) may take time to obtain.
4. Prepare for Interview Day Logistics
- Travel and Accommodation:
Plan your journey so you arrive at the embassy on time. - Security Requirements:
Familiarize yourself with embassy security rules (e.g., no electronics or large bags). - Visa Fee Payment:
Verify the payment method and amount (typically $330 per person) as per your embassy’s instructions. - Checklist:
The night before, double-check that you have all necessary items: passport, appointment letter, DS-260 confirmation, medical envelope, all original documents plus copies, passport-sized photos, fee payment, etc. - Dress Appropriately and Rest Well:
Dress neatly (business casual is recommended) and get a good night’s sleep.
Documents Required for the DV Interview (and How to Obtain Them)
Your DV interview requires you to bring numerous supporting documents for you and each accompanying family member. Below is a detailed breakdown:
Passport (Valid and Unexpired)
- Requirement:
Each applicant must have a valid passport with at least 6 months of validity beyond your intended U.S. entry date. - How to Obtain:
If your passport is near expiration or missing, renew or apply immediately. Each derivative (spouse, child) must have their own passport. - Tips:
Bring a photocopy of the passport’s bio page for your records.
Birth Certificate
- Requirement:
A long-form, official birth certificate for each applicant, including full details (date/place of birth, parents’ names). - How to Obtain:
Request a certified copy from your country’s civil registry. - Common Challenges:
If unavailable, obtain a certified statement explaining the absence and gather secondary evidence (baptismal certificate, affidavits).
Police Clearance Certificate
- Requirement:
For applicants aged 16 or older, obtain a police clearance from every country you have lived in for over 12 months since age 16. - How to Obtain:
Follow country-specific procedures—often detailed on the State Department’s “Reciprocity by Country” webpage. - Common Challenges:
Certificates may expire, so obtain recent ones as needed.
Affidavit of Support (Form I-134) – If Requested
- Note:
DV applicants are not automatically required to submit Form I-864. However, if financial support evidence is needed, a sponsor can provide Form I-134. - How to Obtain:
Have a willing sponsor in the U.S. fill out and sign the form along with supporting financial documents (proof of income, tax returns, etc.). - Tips:
It’s better to have this document if your financial evidence is insufficient.
Medical Examination Results
- Requirement:
A sealed medical report from your panel physician. - How to Obtain:
Complete your exam with an approved doctor; follow their instructions regarding sealed envelopes or electronic submission. - Tips:
Do not open the sealed envelope; bring any vaccination records or CDs provided.
Additional Supporting Documents (Case-Specific)
- Education or Work Experience Proof:
Bring original diplomas/transcripts or employer letters if you’re qualifying by work experience. - Marriage Certificate:
Provide the original civil marriage certificate (with translations if needed). - Marriage Termination Documents:
Include divorce decrees or death certificates for any previous marriages. - Children’s Documents:
Prepare passports, birth certificates, and any additional relationship evidence (especially for step-children or adopted children). - Military Records (if applicable):
Bring your service or discharge certificate. - Court and Prison Records (if applicable):
Obtain certified court records for any convictions or arrests. - Translations and Photocopies:
Ensure all non-English documents have certified translations. Bring photocopies of every document for your records.
What to Expect at the Interview
Understanding the interview process can help ease anxiety. Here’s what you typically experience:
Arrival and Security
- Arrival:
Arrive 15–30 minutes early. - Security:
Undergo security checks similar to an airport (no electronics or large bags).
Initial Processing
- Document Collection:
Local staff may collect your documents and take your fingerprints. - Visa Fee:
Pay the visa fee (if not pre-paid) and keep your receipt.
The Interview with the Consular Officer
- Oath and Verification:
You will be asked to raise your right hand and swear to tell the truth. - Interview Questions:
Expect questions regarding:- Identity and Personal History: Full name, date of birth, previous names.
- DV Qualification: Education or work experience details.
- Relationships: Details about your marriage and family.
- U.S. Plans: Where you plan to live and work in the United States.
- Financial Support: Your plans for supporting yourself (and any affidavit of support).
- Standard Immigration Queries: Criminal history, previous visa issues, etc.
- Additional Clarifications:
The officer may request explanations for any discrepancies in your documents. - Tone:
The interview is usually brief, polite, and businesslike.
Approval or Next Steps
- Immediate Approval:
If approved, you may be told your visa will be stamped in your passport. - Administrative Processing:
You may receive a 221(g) letter if additional documents are needed. - Document Return:
Some documents may be returned to you at the end of the interview.
After the Interview: Administrative Processing, Visa Issuance, and Entry to the U.S.
Administrative Processing (If Applicable)
- What It Means:
Additional background checks or document verifications may delay your visa approval. - What to Do:
Submit any requested documents promptly and check your case status online via the CEAC system.
Visa Issuance
- Visa Printing:
The embassy will place the visa foil in your passport. - Passport Return:
Follow the embassy’s instructions regarding pickup or courier delivery. - Review:
Check your visa details for accuracy upon receiving your passport. - Sealed Packet:
If provided, do not open the sealed immigrant packet—bring it with you when traveling.
Post-Issuance: USCIS Immigrant Fee and Entry
- USCIS Immigrant Fee:
Pay the fee online (currently $220 per person) before traveling to start the green card process. - Travel:
Enter the U.S. before the visa expiration date, carrying your passport, visa, and sealed packet. - At the Port of Entry:
Present your documents to CBP, receive an “I-551” stamp as temporary proof of permanent residency. - Green Card Arrival:
Your actual green card will be mailed to your U.S. address within a few weeks to months.
Tips for a Smooth Experience and Avoiding Common Mistakes
Stay Organized
- Use a binder or folder with labeled sections for each type of document.
- Bring photocopies of every document for backup.
Follow Embassy Instructions
- Double-check specific requirements from your local U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
- Ensure you complete any additional local registration steps.
Prepare Early
- Start gathering documents and schedule your medical exam as soon as possible.
- Allow extra time for document processing (police certificates, translations, etc.).
Address Issues Proactively
- If you notice discrepancies or missing documents, contact the embassy before your interview.
- Be prepared to explain any discrepancies between your DS-260 and supporting documents.
Financial Planning
- Budget for all fees (medical exam, visa fee, USCIS fee) and travel expenses.
- Avoid non-refundable expenses until your visa is in hand.
Don’t Forget the Essentials
- Always bring your appointment letter printout, DS-260 confirmation, passport photos, and all original documents.
- Make a checklist for interview day to ensure nothing is overlooked.
Appear Polite and Confident
- Dress in smart casual or business casual attire.
- Greet the consular officer respectfully and answer all questions honestly.
- Maintain eye contact and ask for clarification if needed.
After the Interview
- Verify that you receive all your documents back.
- Check your visa details carefully when your passport is returned.
Travel and Resettlement
- Keep essential documents (vaccination records, school records, driver’s license) handy for your arrival.
- Read the “Guide for New Immigrants” provided by the State Department for post-arrival instructions.
- Remember to pay your USCIS fee promptly.
Mind the Fiscal Year Deadline
- All DV visas must be issued by September 30 of the DV year.
- If you experience delays in administrative processing, stay in touch with the consulate to avoid missing the deadline.
In Conclusion
We hope this comprehensive guide has made the DV 2NL and immigrant visa interview process clearer and less daunting. By following these steps and tips, you’ll walk into your interview prepared and confident. Remember that the consular officers are there to do their job and help you through this life-changing process. With thorough preparation and a calm mindset, you have a high chance of success.
Good luck at your interview, and here’s to a smooth and successful experience! Soon enough, you could be packing your bags for America as a new permanent resident. Congratulations again, and welcome (in advance) to the United States! Safe travels and all the best on your new journey.
